It Has Almost Been 100 Years Of Rt. 66; Texas Already Celebrating

The iconic Mother Road, Route 66, is awfully close to crossing a major milestone. In less than three years, it will be celebrating 100 years of travel, history, and memories.

Even though the official centennial is still just under three years away, Texas is already celebrating.

Route 66 In Texas

I grew up in Oklahoma along Route 66. As a child, I was told stories of lost gold, outlaws, and road trips of epic proportions. I don't know why I was so surprised that the Texas stretch of Route 66 also contains a fascinating and rich history.

From the first Phillips 66 gas station in McLean, Tx to entire towns that have disappeared, swallowed by time; Route 66 in Texas has an incredible story and legacy.

100 Years Of Route 66 Celebration Starts Early

Officially, Route 66 won't celebrate crossing the centennial line until 2026. The Mother Road was established on November 11, 1926.

Less than 3 years remain before the big day.

That hasn't stopped the Old Route 66 Association of Texas from celebrating early. They're already celebrating in style.

Ordering the whole set is one thing. The impressive, and more fun, way to get your collection will be to eventually visit each of the stops.

Still A Lot Of Life Left In The Old Road

There's still plenty of life left in Route 66, even at almost 100 years. The Mother Road is keeping up with the times.

Charlie Hardin

Remember the Tesla charging stations we found in Shamrock, TX at the U Drop Inn? Come to find out, the Texas Old Route 66 Association was behind that.

They've been behind a lot of the efforts to keep the history alive. And they're doing a great job of it.

Credit: Christian M. Mericle

Also, there were rumors recently that Glenrio, TX could be getting a new lease on life. Supposedly a group of investors were eyeing the town and thinking about developing it back up. One might assume it has something to do with recent "developments" in New Mexico.

It would be like in Glenrio's golden age when people popped back and forth across the state line to have a beer.

Keep an eye on the Old Route 66 Association of Texas as we get closer to the centennial. I'd be willing to wager there will be some big events celebrating the Mother Road's 100 year anniversary.

Look: 25 Must See Landmarks On Route 66 From Tulsa To Glenrio

Route 66 is an iconic part of our culture. Here are 25 must see landmarks to check out from Tulsa, to Glrenrio.

Check Out These Photos Of Ghost Towns On The High Plains

Ghost towns dot the landscape of the Texas panhandle, Western Oklahoma, and the Oklahoma panhandle. The best part? They're all within driving distance. Go take a look for yourself.

Look at How Amarillo's Old Route 66 Motels Looked Then & Now

The heyday of the Mother Road may be long gone, but would you believe that there's still plenty of the old motels where many a weary American family rested their heads during their interstate travels?

You won't believe some of these are still standing, much less still alive and (wait for it..) kickin'!