The most famous road in the world, Route 66, came to the UK last week – painted as a gigantic mural on a wall
The 52 ft spray-paint work in Clerkenwell, London, has been created to celebrate the 90th anniversary of the 2,451 miles (3,945 km) iconic road in the USA.
London-based street artist Will Vibes took 350 hours and used 145 tins of spray paint to apply the mural for the Illinois Office of Tourism.
The enormous wall painting on the side of a building on Clerkenwell Road depicts iconic Americana from a the Illinois stretch of the famous road and one of the many traditional American diners which are found along it.
It also features the words ‘get your kicks on’ – lyrics from the popular rhythm and blues song ‘Route 66’ composed by songwriter Bobby Troup.
Route 66, which starts in Chicago, Illinois, and ends in Santa Monica, California, opened in 1926 as one of the original US highways.
Although removed from the US Highway System in 1985 and no longer linked in its entirety, much of the original route is still drivable – including a 300 mile stretch through Illinois.
The old highway, also known as the Main Street of America or the Mother Road, has been referenced in many songs and films and obtained legendary status in popular culture.
Route 66 expert Jim Hinckley, 58, said: “Route 66 is an almost magical road.
“It’s the best of America – you go cruising through the heartland, through the cornfields and the open countryside. It’s an authentic American experience.
“The state of Illinois, where the road begins, has worked hard to preserve its part in the road’s history.
“It transcends barriers of language and culture. It is so long that people can actually make friendships on the road because they bump into each other at roadside cafes and restaurants. Most of these have been renovated and restored.
He added: “Route 66 is a symbol of freedom, adventure and hope. From its inception Route 66 represented a journey to a new life, and the freedom of spirit that is at the heart of any great road trip.”
ROUTE 66 FACT BOX
Route 66 in Illinois Facts:
- The start of Route 66 is in Chicago, Illinois. For a fantastic Chicago photo op, visitors love to take a picture under the new Route 66 start sign at the downtown intersection of Adams Street and Wabash Street.
- Joliet Area Historical Museum showcases rare photos and memorabilia in The Route 66 Experience. Fun exhibits include “car couches” equipped with radios that play 1950s music and a drive-in movie theatre showing projected images of the Mother Road.
- There are a 31 Illinois Route 66 Wayside Exhibits, each placed at a historically significant site throughout the state. These colourful kiosks use pictures, audio and illustrations to tell the story of Route 66 in Illinois. Visitors to Illinois love to get a flavour of Route 66 at landmark eateries like the Cozy Dog Drive In, Springfield, Doc’s Soda Fountain, Girard and Palms Grill Café, Atlanta.
- See the finest collection of memorabilia from the historic Mother Road in Illinois at the Route 66 Hall of Fame & Museum in Pontiac. The free-admission Hall of Fame features nostalgic photos and displays, plus attractions that include Route 66 artist and icon Bob Waldmire’s bus and van, and the world’s largest Route 66 shield.
- A great time to explore Route 66 is in September during the International Route 66 Mother Road Festival, held on the streets of downtown Springfield. The colourful classic cars, live music, and chance to chat with other Route 66 enthusiasts is an unforgettable experience.
- In Auburn, drive along the Original Route 66 Brick Road – this short stretch consists of restored hand-laid red bricks
- Cameras at the ready for World’s Largest Catsup Bottle in Colinsville, which is actually a 170-foot water tower that was built in 1949 by the bottlers of Brooks Catsup. It’s a fun roadside attraction that attracts scores of gawkers and fans.
For more information on planning a road trip on Route 66 and journey to the heart of America, visit www.enjoyillinois.co.uk
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