Route 66 Through the Decades

Curatorial Statement

My hope with this exhibit is to showcase the history and legacy of Route 66, not only as a nostalgic bit of Americana; but also as a significant and influential part of American history that has had a far reaching impact on the development and success of the country in many ways. From the Dust Bowl to the Baby Boom, the Mother Road helped change America and is still influencing local economies and is being used as a revival opportunity for remote areas in some states. Route 66 is rare in its current place as both living history and amazing historical artifact; this unique position is something I wish to highlight and expound upon with the information presented.

The images and video chosen for this exhibit were intended to be a balance between past and present, showing both the amazing impact the road had on the lives of everyday people during major times in history as well as the artistic and creative influence the road has today.

The chronological nature of the exhibit seeks to convey the evolving nature of the importance of Route 66 at various points in the past, while also showcasing how it remains relevant even in modern times. I want the audience to not only learn about the road and how it came into being, but reflect upon their own ideas about Route 66 and the feelings they have when they hear the name; nostalgia, wanderlust, the seeking of independence, and the lure of the freedom of the open road.

-Cyrena Hoaglund

Curator Biography

My name is Cyrena Hoaglund and I am a senior at Northern Arizona University. I will be graduating in Fall of 2021 with a Bachelor’s in Interdisciplinary Studies-Humanities. I hope to continue my education in the Humanities at some point in the future, and will be focusing on my writing as a hopeful new career to transition out of my current corporate role.