SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois State Museum in Springfield will host this month’s virtual session of the Centennial Speaker Series, “Route 66 at 100 – An American Story,” at 1 p.m. Tuesday.
The session features historian and author Cheryl Eichar Jett, whose work highlights the often-overlooked contributions of women along historic U.S. Route 66. Drawing from her forthcoming book, “Aprons Away: Women’s Work on Route 66,” Jett will explore the essential roles women played along the Mother Road.
The public is invited to this free event that celebrates the rich history and enduring legacy of the nation’s most iconic highway. The Centennial Speaker Series brings together notable authors, historians and preservation advocates to share research and stories about Route 66. Through presentations and discussions, participants will gain a deeper understanding of the highway’s cultural and historical significance as it approaches its 100th anniversary in 2026.
The Centennial Speaker Series is organized and hosted by Research Route 66, a collaboration led by the National Park Service Route 66 Corridor Preservation Program and the Route 66 Road Ahead Partnership, along with archives, libraries and museums located along the route, including the Illinois State Museum. The program is certified as an Official Route 66 Centennial Activity by the U.S. Route 66 Centennial Commission.
Research Route 66 works to preserve the historical record of Route 66 and make research materials accessible to the public and stakeholders for education, preservation and management of the historic corridor. For a list of upcoming events or to register, visit speakers.researchroute66.org.
About the Illinois State Museum
Established in 1877, the Illinois State Museum is a dynamic institution that inspires the exploration of Illinois’ past and present to inform and enrich everyday life and promote stewardship of cultural and natural resources. Headquartered in Springfield with branch facilities in Lewistown and Lockport, ISM is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and a proud member of the International Coalition of Sites of Conscience.