Route History Museum & Souvenir Shop
737 East Cook Street, Springfield, IL 62703
Historic Sites
At Route History visitors can experience and learn about pioneers that made significant contributions to Illinois, the city of Springfield, the greater society, located along historic Route 66.
Route History is an attraction that is part of the "Living Legends of Route 66" program. Stacy Grundy, Gina Lathan, and Kenneth Lockhart opened Route History in Springfield, Illinois to honor black historical figures and their contributions. They strive to "help share the complete story" of Springfield's history- the untold tales of how Route 66 blends seamlessly with the city's African American influence. Springfield-a place of historical triumph, setback, turbulence, and peace-centralizes the power of state legislation under the dome-like structure of the Capitol Building.
Of the many prominent people that have guided our nation into a more inclusive society, there's a congregation of unknown faces throughout history that used their blood, sweat, and tears to create a better future. Route 66 held an even more dominating role with its many designated "safe zones" (as published in the notorious Green Book) for black Americans traveling across the country. Route History aims to shed light on that history, while honoring the power of the Mother Road.
A definite "must see" for those traveling on America's historic Route 66 road!
Images
More Information
- Mon: 10:00am – 5:00am
- Tue: 10:00am – 5:00pm
- Wed: 10:00am – 5:00pm
- Thu: 10:00am – 5:00pm
- Fri: 10:00am – 5:00pm
- Sat: 11:00am – 5:00pm
- Sun: Closed
How to find us?
What's happening nearby...
Springfield Jr Blues Hockey Season
The Nelson Center • Sep 20 – Apr 05 @ 6:30PM
Catch all the action of the 2024-2025 Springfield Jr Blues Hockey Season!
Read more about Springfield Jr Blues Hockey SeasonCharlie Berens: Good Old Fashioned Tour at UIS Performing Arts Center
UIS Performing Arts Center • Feb 02 @ 7PM
Comedian Charlie Berens comes to the UIS Performing Arts Center on February 2nd.
Read more about Charlie Berens: Good Old Fashioned Tour at UIS Performing Arts CenterBrett Young at UIS Performing Arts Center
UIS Performing Arts Center • Feb 13 @ 8PM
Brett Young brings his Back to the Basics World Tour to UIS Performing Arts Center February 13th.
Read more about Brett Young at UIS Performing Arts CenterYou might also be interested...
Edwards Place
Springfield
Built in 1833, this Italianate mansion was part of the social center of Springfield in its day. Nearly all of Illinois' most prominent citizens and politicians,…
Read more about Edwards PlaceLincoln Depot
Springfield
Restored 1852 train depot, from which President-Elect Abraham Lincoln departed for Washington D.C. on February 11, 1861. Lincoln gave one of his most memorable speeches from…
Read more about Lincoln DepotGovernor's Mansion
Springfield
The Mansion serves as the official residence of the First Family, a working office for staff, a museum for visitors, and a venue for educational, professional,…
Read more about Governor's Mansion