While Route 66 stretches from Chicago to LA, the soul of the Mother Road lives in the hearts of those who preserved it. In this episode of the Only in OK Show, we're heading to Clinton, Oklahoma, to go inside the Oklahoma Route 66 Hall of Fame.
As we look toward the massive 2026 Centennial, we explore the museum that serves as the ultimate shrine to the Will Rogers Highway and the icons who kept the neon buzzing.
Inside the Episode
The Hall of Fame: Honoring the Legends
Every two years, the Oklahoma Route 66 Association inducts individuals who have dedicated their lives to the road. We dive into the stories of the legends whose plaques line the museum walls:
-
Cyrus Avery: The visionary known as "The Father of Route 66."
-
Lucille Hamons: The "Mother of the Mother Road" and her legacy in Hydro.
-
The Russells: Harley and Annabelle of Erick—true Oklahoma "characters" who define the road's quirky spirit.
-
Doc Mason: The 2003 Hall of Famer, owner of the Tradewinds Motel, and key consultant for Pixar's Cars.
Save the Date: The 2026 Centennial Induction
The upcoming Hall of Fame ceremony isn't just a local event—it's a national milestone. 2026 marks the 100th Anniversary of Route 66, and the induction ceremony will be the heart of the celebration.
-
When: Saturday, July 25, 2026
-
Time: 2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
-
The Event: Two new Oklahomans will be inducted into the Hall of Fame. Join history buffs and preservationists as we honor the newest guardians of the road.
The Oklahoma Route 66 Museum Experience
The Hall of Fame is housed within a chronological journey of the highway. Before the ceremony, take time to explore:
-
The Dust Bowl Era: Real stories of the "land of promise" during the drought years.
-
The 1950s Diner: A fully immersive exhibit where you can sit in a booth and soak in the neon-soaked family vacation era.
-
The Gift Shop: Support the mission! Proceeds from admission and the shop go directly toward the daily operations and preservation programs of the museum.
Plan Your Trip to Clinton
If you are attending the July 25th induction, plan to arrive early at the museum located at 2229 West Gary Boulevard. This is a landmark year and the building fills up fast!
Subscribe to the Only in OK Show to stay updated on all things Oklahoma history, travel, and the upcoming Route 66 Centennial celebrations!
#OnlyInOKShow #Route66HallOfFame #OklahomaRoute66 #MotherRoadLegends #ClintonOK #Route66Centennial #WillRogersHighway #OklahomaHistory #Route66Museum #ExploreOklahoma
