The “Mother Road” beckoned, and Steve Doocy answered. He embarked on a three-day journey tracing the legendary Route 66, a pilgrimage ahead of its 100th anniversary, beginning in Tulsa, Oklahoma and aiming for the Pacific coast.
Tulsa welcomed Doocy with open arms, a city steeped in the history of the iconic highway. He immersed himself in the local culture, visiting businesses and speaking with artists whose lives and work are inextricably linked to Route 66’s enduring legacy.
Wednesday’s leg of the journey brought him to Baxter Springs, Kansas – a state boasting only thirteen miles of the famed roadway, yet brimming with a profound connection to its past. He broadcast live from Bricks and Brews, a local grill and pub, the heart of a community built alongside the highway.
A palpable sense of pride filled the air as residents gathered, eager to share their personal stories. Doocy posed a simple question to the crowd: “How many people grew up along Route 66?” The resounding answer, a chorus of raised hands, spoke volumes.
The celebration continued at the Baxter Springs Visitor Center, where local officials and residents united to honor the approaching milestone. For Doocy, a Kansas native, the short stretch held a special significance, a homecoming woven into a national story.
Mayor Kelly Abbott eloquently described how Route 66 isn’t just a road in Baxter Springs; it’s the very fabric of daily life. From school commutes to Friday night football games, the highway remains central to the town’s identity.
Doocy highlighted a forgotten era, reminding viewers that before the interstate system, Route 66 was the lifeblood connecting communities across the nation, a vital artery for travelers and commerce.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the opening of a new park, a welcoming haven designed for those exploring the historic route. The park promises a place to rest, reflect, and delve into the rich history of the “Mother Road.”
Beyond the highway itself, Doocy’s journey touched on a broader theme: America’s upcoming 250th anniversary. He asked those he met what the milestone meant to them, sparking heartfelt responses.
Patriotism resonated throughout the conversations. Attendees spoke of pride, freedom, and a deep appreciation for the sacrifices of veterans – core values embodied by the spirit of Route 66 and the nation it traverses.
The journey is set to culminate in Springfield, Missouri, the official launchpad for the Route 66 centennial celebrations, bringing a remarkable road trip to a fitting conclusion.
