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...
Old Capitol Farmers' Market in Downtown Springfield
Downtown Springfield-Corner of 4th & Adams St • May 15 – Oct 26 @ 8PM
Visit Springfield's longest-running and most popular Farmers Market in beautiful downtown Springfield.
Read more about Old Capitol Farmers' Market in Downtown Springfield
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 Season
Edwards Place Fine Art Fair
Edward's Place • Sep 21 – Sep 22 @ 10AM
View and purchase hand-crafted art from the Midwest and beyond at dozens of artists booths. Along with shopping for fine art, you’ll enjoy live music, food…
Read more about Edwards Place Fine Art FairYou might also be interested...
Governor'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
Camp Butler National Cemetery
Springfield
Once the site of a Union Civil War training camp and Confederate prison, now a national cemetery for veterans and their dependents. There are over 25,000…
Read more about Camp Butler National Cemetery