Route History Museum & Souvenir Shop
737 East Cook Street, Springfield, IL 62703
Historic Sites
At Route History visitors can experience and learn about pioneers that made significant contributions to Illinois, the city of Springfield, the greater society, located along historic Route 66.
Route History is an attraction that is part of the "Living Legends of Route 66" program. Stacy Grundy, Gina Lathan, and Kenneth Lockhart opened Route History in Springfield, Illinois to honor black historical figures and their contributions. They strive to "help share the complete story" of Springfield's history- the untold tales of how Route 66 blends seamlessly with the city's African American influence. Springfield-a place of historical triumph, setback, turbulence, and peace-centralizes the power of state legislation under the dome-like structure of the Capitol Building.
Of the many prominent people that have guided our nation into a more inclusive society, there's a congregation of unknown faces throughout history that used their blood, sweat, and tears to create a better future. Route 66 held an even more dominating role with its many designated "safe zones" (as published in the notorious Green Book) for black Americans traveling across the country. Route History aims to shed light on that history, while honoring the power of the Mother Road.
A definite "must see" for those traveling on America's historic Route 66 road!
What's happening nearby...

Springfield Jr Blues Hockey Season
The Nelson Center • Sep 20 – Apr 05 @ 6:30PM
Catch all the action of the 2024-2025 Springfield Jr Blues Hockey Season!
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Spring Floral Show at Washington Park Botanical Gardens
Washington Park Botanical Garden • Mar 22 – Apr 13 @ 12noon
Spring has sprung at the Washington Park Botanical Garden for the Spring Floral Show March 22 - April 13.
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Lincoln Presidential Half Marathon in Springfield
Downtown Springfield • Apr 05 @ 7:30AM
It's time to run where Lincoln walked! The Lincoln Presidential Half Marathon takes place April 5th in downtown Springfield.
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