Illinois State Museum to celebrate U.S. Route 66's 100th anniversary with virtual experience

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - The Illinois State Museum will have a new virtual experience coming this month.

This months session will focus on the Centennial Speaker Series "Route 66 at 100 - An American Story,' and also features historians and authors such as Cheryl Elchar Jett. Jett will explore the often overlooked essential roles women had on the historic U.S. Route 66 which is pulled from her upcoming book, "Aprons Away: Women's Work on Route 66."

Through presentations and discussions, participants will gain a deeper understanding of the highways cultural importance as it approaches its 100th anniversary in 2026.

This free event invites the public to celebrate the history and ongoing legacy of the nations most iconic highway at 1 p.m. Tuesday, March 10.