CD review: “Songs of Tucumcari”

While looking over the track listing of the "Songs of Tucumcari" complication compilation CD, a thought struck me: When has such a small town as Tucumcari, N.M. (population 5,900) inspired so many songs? Maybe it's because the city's association with Route 66. Maybe it's from being the first significant town that westbound travelers encounter when … Continue reading CD review: “Songs of Tucumcari”

Reaching out across the pond

The Illinois Times published an interesting report about the state's efforts to boost tourism despite a poor economy. The article includes this excerpt on a novel way that Illinois has reached out to Route 66 travelers who live in Great Britain: They’ve also found that the British have an interest in the 1960s and authentic … Continue reading Reaching out across the pond

Plan your bicycle route on Google Maps

Today, Google announced it added bicycle routes to its Google Maps site in addition to walking, public transit, and driving routes. Bicycle routes by Google Maps is still being beta-tested, and users can make suggestions for changes if they find an error or overlooked bike trail. Here's a demonstration of the technology: According to Wired: … Continue reading Plan your bicycle route on Google Maps

Route 66 viaduct in Galena soon will be rehabbed

Cherokee County, Kan., soon will apply for federal money to stabilize the Front Street Bridge in Galena, which carries old Route 66 over the railroad tracks north of town, according to the Joplin Globe. The National Park Service Route 66 Corridor Preservation Program awarded the grant in 2008. It includes $30,000 from the National Park … Continue reading Route 66 viaduct in Galena soon will be rehabbed

Songs about Tucumcari

The Tucumcari-Quay County Chamber of Commerce is about to release a 14-song CD filled with songs that refer to the Route 66 town of Tucumcari, N.M., according to the Quay County Sun. The Chamber of Commerce will sell the CDs to tourists and the locals as a Chamber fundraiser. In the beginning of the research, … Continue reading Songs about Tucumcari

Enchanted welcome

A few weeks ago, the state of New Mexico erected this "Welcome to New Mexico -- Land of Enchantment" structure over westbound Interstate 40 near the Glenrio Welcome Center, close to the Texas border. Many Route 66ers don't continue into New Mexico on I-40, opting for the gravel road that was old Route 66 leading … Continue reading Enchanted welcome