With each map, brochure, diary, or photograph we learn more about the highway—what it looked like, who used it, what it was like to drive it.
Learn More about Archives
Illinois | Missouri | Kansas |Oklahoma | Texas | New Mexico | Arizona | California
The National Register of Historic Places plays a critical role in recognizing and preserving sites of historical importance throughout the United States. One of the key components in the nomination process is the creation of National Register nominations.
National Register nominations are historical documents prepared to establish the historical significance of a specific site, district, or theme—such as Route 66. These documents serve as the foundation for evaluating whether a site merits inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places.
Typically, historians or students undertake the research and writing of these nominations. Their work is thorough and detailed, resulting in documents that are filled with valuable historical information. The content of these nominations helps to justify the significance of the nominated sites, providing a comprehensive understanding of their historical context.
The majority of National Register nominations are accessible online, offering a valuable resource for those seeking information about Route 66. These nominations can provide insights not only into the general history of Route 66 but also into details specific to each state or to individual sites along the route.
To date, more than 250 Route 66 buildings, districts, and road segments are listed on the National Register. To assist in your research, a list of Route 66-related nominations is provided below. This list is intended to serve as a guide; however, it is important to note that additional sites may be available through the National Register of Historic Places website.
Kansas