The Longest Stretch Of The Original 66 In The USA!

The allure of Route 66, often referred to as the "Main Street of America," lies in its rich history and the unique experiences it offers to travelers. One of the most iconic aspects of this historic highway is the Burma-Shave advertising campaign that captured the hearts of motorists for decades.

These whimsical roadside signs, known as the "Burma Shave Signs," are an integral part of American pop culture, evoking feelings of nostalgia and a bygone era. In this article, we will delve into the heart of Route 66 and explore the fascinating world of Burma Shave signs.

Heading westbound in Arizona, Route 66 takes a northwestern turn at Seligman, away from today's Interstate 40, and passes through the small towns of Peach Springs, Truxton, Valentine and Hackberry. West of Seligman the road settles into the Aubrey Valley, and then nears Grand Canyon Caverns.

The Birth of Burma Shave Signs

Burma-Shave, a brand of brushless shaving cream, was invented by Clinton Odell in 1925. However, it wasn't until 1926 that the company embarked on its unique advertising journey along Route 66. The campaign was simple yet ingenious—sequential signs with witty and rhyming messages strategically placed along the roadside.

The Route 66 Connection

Route 66, stretching from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California, became the perfect canvas for the Burma Shave advertising campaign. The highway's popularity among travelers made it an ideal location for these memorable signs, which quickly became a source of entertainment and anticipation for those journeying along this iconic route.

The Format of Burma Shave Signs

Each Burma Shave campaign consisted of six sequential signs, usually placed a few hundred feet apart. As motorists approached, they would read the signs one after the other, creating a humorous and engaging message. The signs often featured clever rhymes and puns, making them memorable and fun to read.

The Legacy of Burma Shave Signs

The Burma Shave signs left an indelible mark on American culture and advertising. They represented a unique blend of advertising and entertainment, a far cry from the modern billboards that dominate today's highways. The signs resonated with the American spirit of adventure and exploration that Route 66 embodied.

Preservation Efforts

As Route 66 underwent changes and modernization, many Burma Shave signs disappeared from the roadside. However, efforts have been made to preserve this part of American history. Some signs have been restored and can still be seen along select portions of the original Route 66.

Route 66 has evolved over the years, with some sections becoming part of the Interstate Highway System. While the Burma Shave signs are no longer a prominent feature of the highway, the spirit of adventure and nostalgia that Route 66 represents continues to draw travelers from around the world.

The Enduring Appeal of Burma Shave Signs

What makes Burma Shave signs so enduring is their ability to transport us back to a simpler time, when road trips were a cherished American pastime. They remind us of the excitement of the open road, the joy of exploration, and the humor that can be found in unexpected places.

In the heart of Route 66, the Burma Shave signs stand as a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of American advertising. These quirky signs have left an indelible mark on our culture and continue to bring smiles to the faces of those who discover them. As you embark on your own Route 66 adventure, keep an eye out for remnants of these iconic signs and immerse yourself in the nostalgia they evoke, for they truly are a cherished part of Americana.

Explore the heart of Route 66 and relive the nostalgia of Burma Shave signs, a delightful part of American history that continues to captivate and charm travelers today.