Will Rogers Highway Marker

Galena, Kansas

KansasRoadside Attraction

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Historic Route 66 has gathered quite a few nicknames over the years, from “The Mother Road” to “The Main Street of America.” But it’s also affectionately known as the “Will Rogers Highway.”

Will Rogers, a beloved humorist and entertainer, traveled the old cattle trails from 1892 to 1895. Part of that 40-mile route later became Route 66 in 1926. Thanks to the big role he played in bringing attention to Route 66 in his syndicated newspaper columns, the U.S. Highway 66 Association re-dedicated the Mother Road as the “Will Rogers Highway” on June 26, 1952.

Historical markers have been placed in various locations on Route 66 to commemorate the dedication. Find this Will Rogers Highway Marker, dedicated in 2001, at Howard “Pappy” Litch Park in Galena, Kansas. Below it you will also find an original 1952 Will Rogers Highway plaque that was formerly located on the Missouri-Kansas State line. Here’s what the historical marker says:

Galena, Kansas

Founded in 1877

Named for the ore it produced, Galena lead mining was the largest industry in our history, starting in 1873 and continuing until 1973. The mining and smelting required 3 railroads, 65 crushers, 2 smelters and 3 sludge mills to handle the ore produced from as many as 250 mines. The city sprang up with over 160 service and professional businesses. Its population grew to 30,000 people making its history the largest community within Cherokee County. What is known today as “Main Street of America” or the “Mother Road”, U.S. 66 was established down our Main Street, Galena, Kansas in 1926. Dedicated as U.S. 66 Will Rogers Highway Dec. 9, 1935. Kansas has 13.2 miles of Route 66. At this point there are 1794 miles west and 606 miles east of America’s U.S. Historic Will Rogers Memorial Highway U.S. 66.

“America is a land of opportunity and don’t ever forget it.”
Will Rogers

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Will Rogers Highway Marker in Galena, Kansas - Howard "Pappy" Litch Park in Galena, Kansas Route 66 park

Will Rogers Highway Marker

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Address:

500 S Main St, Galena, KS 66739

Hours:

Visible 24/7

Cost:

Free

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Photos of the Will Rogers Highway Marker in Galena, Kansas

Will Rogers Highway Marker in Galena, Kansas - Howard "Pappy" Litch Park in Galena, Kansas Route 66 park

Know Before You Go

To make the most of your visit to the Will Rogers Highway Marker in Galena, Kansas, here are some things to know before you go.

What is the Will Rogers Highway Marker in Galena, Kansas?

The Will Rogers Highway Marker is a monument commemorating Route 66’s historic designation as the Will Rogers Highway, a name adopted in honor of famed humorist, actor, and columnist Will Rogers. The marker celebrates both the Mother Road and Rogers’ enduring connection to America’s road-travel culture.

Where is the Will Rogers Highway Marker located in Galena?

The marker is located in Howard “Pappy” Litch Park at the intersection of Main Street and 5th Street in downtown Galena, Kansas. The small park sits directly along Kansas Route 66 and is an easy stop while exploring the town’s other roadside attractions.

Why is Route 66 called the Will Rogers Highway?

After Will Rogers was killed in a plane crash in 1935, efforts began to memorialize him along America’s most famous highway. Route 66 was eventually dedicated as the Will Rogers Highway, recognizing Rogers’ popularity and his reputation as a traveler, storyteller, and ambassador of American goodwill.

Is there parking nearby?

There is plenty of street parking in Galena. Park your car to see this park and visit the other attractions and businesses in town.

Where can you find other Will Rogers Highway Markers on Route 66?

This is one of many Will Rogers Highway Markers on Route 66. Find others in:

Where to Stay Near the Galena Will Rogers Highway Marker

Complete your travel itinerary and get a good night’s rest with a stay at one of these hotels near this Kansas Route 66 roadside attraction.

Boots Court Motel

The Boots Court Motel in Carthage, Missouri opened in 1939. This historic Route 66 motor hotel hosted actor Clark Gable numerous times.

Stay on 66

With only 13 miles of road, there aren’t too many motels on Kansas Route 66. Stay on 66 fills a need with boutique B&B experiences. With properties like the The Old Riverton Post B&B in Riverton and The Mollie Retreat on Route 66 in Galena, you have warm options if you want to spend the night in Kansas.

Attractions Near the Galena Will Rogers Highway Marker on Route 66

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Planning your Route 66 road trip? Our Route 66 Road Trip Planning Toolkit is your go-to resource for crafting the perfect itinerary! With over 1,300 stops, including quirky roadside attractions, historic sites, and classic diners, our toolkit helps you prioritize what matters most to you. It’s the ultimate guide to making your road trip truly unique and memorable. Ready to hit the road? Start planning your adventure now! #Route66 #Route66RoadTrip #Route66TravelPlanning

Is road trip planning driving you crazy?

Let the Route 66 Road Trip Planning Toolkit be your guide.

Are you ready to hit the Mother Road but feeling overwhelmed with planning? The Route 66 Road Trip Planning Toolkit is your one-stop solution! Spanning 2,448 miles of pure Americana, Route 66 is packed with quirky attractions, historic sites, and unforgettable experiences—so why settle for a generic, outdated itinerary? Our toolkit offers a customizable travel spreadsheet with over 1,300 stops, a detailed eBook, and a step-by-step video guide to help you craft your dream Route 66 road trip. Don’t miss out—start planning your perfect Route 66 adventure today!

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