In Chandler, Oklahoma, amid the nostalgic backdrop of Route 66, a journey awaits that transcends modern navigation technology. Unlike the quick fixes of smartphone apps, the thoroughfare, often referred to as the Mother Road, demands a slower, more soulful exploration. As travelers navigate this historic path winding through quaint towns, ABC7 Chicago’s Ryan Chiaverini embarked on his own adventure for the “Pier To Pier: Celebrating 100 Years of Route 66” series. Opting for a more traditional approach, Chiaverini was guided not by digital maps but by the “EZ66 Guide For Travelers,” authored by the insightful Jerry McClanahan.
Recalling his childhood memories, McClanahan shared, “Sitting in the backseat as a kid, we would hit 66 at Victorville and follow through to Oklahoma City.” Those family road trips from southern California to Arkansas left a lasting imprint on him. “I looked forward to vacation every year,” he reminisced, revealing a desire to recreate the wonder of those formative journeys as an adult.
Driven by nostalgia and inquisitiveness, McClanahan meticulously documented the stops he missed as a child, culminating in the first edition of the EZ66 Guide in 2005. As Route 66 prepares to celebrate its centennial milestone, the guide has reached its sixth edition, bringing McClanahan immense satisfaction. His work weaves together elements of history and commerce, breathing life into local businesses and old-time landmarks.
“I really love being able to be a part of keeping these places open,” McClanahan expressed, his voice tinged with pride. “It’s great to be a part of that long community of Route 66 shops and people and visitors.” His dedication highlights a commitment not just to the road itself but to the vibrant tapestry of stories and experiences it represents.
During a visit to McJerry’s Route 66 Art Gallery, McClanahan welcomed Chiaverini with a showcase of his curated road artifacts and exquisite art pieces. The gallery, with its meticulous paintings capturing the allure of classic cars against famed Route 66 landscapes, invites visitors to take a nostalgic journey of their own. Each artwork, painstakingly crafted over days, is a homage to the enduring spirit of America’s beloved highway.
“I am obsessed by the details. It’s like this one with the reflections in it,” said McClanahan pointing at a painting featuring a ’57 Chevy. “Halfway through I’m saying, why oh why did I put on the reflections in that painting?”
Chiaverini made sure to have McClanahan autograph his copy of the EZ Guide, but not before Jerry updated it with new detours on Route 66. Chiaverini would need the revisions because there’s plenty more to see on his journey toward the Pacific ocean.
“Pier To Pier: Celebrating 100 Years of Route 66” is sponsored by Hyundai
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