Archives in the Kansas Route 66 Area
Route 66 passes through Kansas for just 13.2 miles, but it remains an outstanding stretch of Route 66. Along with several roadside attractions such as the famous Eisler Brothers Old Riverton Store, Kansas has dedicated institutions that house historical documents, maps, and books regarding Route 66.
- The Galena Archival Library has several newspapers and blueprint collections dealing with the refurbishment of Route 66. These archives are staffed by hard-working volunteers who will arrange appointments for visitors.
Galena Archival Library
217 W 7th St,
Galena, KS 66739
(620) 783-5132
- The Galena Mining & Historical Museum houses documents and photos as well as physical artifacts left behind by those who worked in the Southeast Kansas area along Route 66.
Galena Mining & Historical Museum
319 W 7th St,
Galena, KS 66739
(620) 783-2192
- A key repository for any Route 66 information in Kansas is the Baxter Springs Heritage Center & Museum. The volunteer staff maintains our 20,000-foot facility and a full climate controlled archive room. Included in the archives are books, newspapers, government records, photos, and map collections pertaining to Route 66. Visitors can explore the Route 66 heyday by walking through our 1930s brick street, shop display. The archives are available to visitors 10:00am to 4:30pm Monday through Saturday and 1:00pm to 4:30pm on Sundays. The volunteer staff will also arrange special appointments to view the archival records.
Baxter Springs Heritage Center & Museum
740 East Avenue
Baxter Springs, KS 66713
(620) 856-2385
- The Baxter Springs Visitors’ Center is a restored filling station, and contains artifacts and some documents pertaining to Route 66 during the 1940s and 1950s. The Visitors’ Center is open to tourists and scholars most days and also available by appointment.
Baxter Springs Visitors Center
940 East Ave.
Baxter Springs, KS 66713
- An institution with archives relating to local history:
Pittsburg State University: Leonard H. Axe Library
1701 S Broadway
Pittsburg, KS 66762
(620) 235-4879