From a historical perspective, Route 66 linked the isolated, rural West to the densely populated urban Midwest and Northeast. Chicago had long served as a transshipment point for goods that were transported to the West. The creation of Route 66 ensured the continuation of this vital socioeconomic link. The appearance of U.S. Highway 66 came at a time of unparalleled social, economic, and political disruption and global conflict, and it enabled the most comprehensive movement of people in the history of the United States.

Route 66 was stamped on the American public's consciousness in 1926. That was the year the fabled highway was christened. Through the decades this remarkable road has been celebrated in song and literature. It is a 2,500 mile ribbon of concrete and asphalt pavement that snakes across eight states and was known as America's Main Street. Perhaps more than any other American highway, Route 66 symbolized the new optimism that pervaded the nations postwar economic recovery. For thousands of returning servicemen and their families, Route 66 represented more than just a highway. It became, according to one author, "an icon of free-spirited independence linking the United States across the Rocky Mountain divide to the Pacific Ocean."

There is a spirit, or a feeling, that resides along the Mother Road. According to the guidebooks I’ve read, the spirit of Route 66 lives in the people who still reside along the Route and their stories, the views and structures, and travelers' perceptions of them. To gain an understanding of Route 66 and the spirit of the Route, you have to drive it and experience it.

The experience of Route 66 is formed by the travelers and the people along the Route, the sights, sounds and tastes you encounter along the way. The surroundings are constantly changing, and there is a sense of mystery about what lies around the next bend. Regional differences in rural landscapes and natural features figure prominently in the experience, as do small towns and larger cities.

Route 66 is not for everybody. Finding Route 66 can be an adventure and a challenge requiring a good sense of direction, several maps and guidebooks, a GPS and patience to decipher the highway's various alignments. It is not for people in a hurry. Route 66 is for people that like to slurp root beer floats from a frosty mug, who are willing to tackle a burger that requires at least a dozen napkins to sop up the grease.

I’ve got a taste of the Mother Road now and plan on running her again. But next time, I’ll experience Route 66 while driving in the proper direction, East to West.