Will Rogers Highway Marker: A Tribute to the 'People's Cowboy'

The Will Rogers Highway Marker, nestled within Santa Monica's picturesque Palisades Park, stands as a tribute to both a legendary American figure and the iconic Route 66. This marker isn't just a stone and plaque; it's a portal to a bygone era, evoking the spirit of adventure, the open road, and the golden age of the automobile. Dedicated in 1952, the marker commemorates the unofficial designation of Route 66 as the 'Will Rogers Highway,' honoring Will Rogers, a beloved humorist, world traveler, and social commentator. Will Rogers, often called the 'People's Cowboy,' was a prominent figure in the early 20th century. His folksy wit, insightful observations, and down-to-earth personality endeared him to millions. Rogers' career spanned various fields, including vaudeville, acting, writing, and radio, making him one of the most recognizable and respected voices in America. His untimely death in a 1935 plane crash deeply affected the nation, leading to numerous tributes, including the unofficial naming of Route 66 in his honor. The Will Rogers Highway Marker emerged from a promotional campaign for the Warner Brothers film 'The Story of Will Rogers' (1952). As part of the campaign, a caravan traveled along Route 66, installing markers at state lines to rededicate the highway in Rogers' name. The Santa Monica marker, placed in Palisades Park, marked the end of this commemorative journey. While Route 66 already held the nicknames 'Main Street of America' and 'The Mother Road,' the association with Will Rogers added another layer of significance, linking the highway to a figure synonymous with American values and optimism. Palisades Park, the marker's setting, enhances its appeal. The park offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, the Santa Monica Pier, and the coastline. The gentle sea breeze, the swaying palm trees, and the vibrant atmosphere create a serene and reflective space. Visitors can stroll along the park's pathways, enjoy a picnic, or simply soak in the beauty of the surroundings. The park's proximity to other Santa Monica attractions, such as the pier and the Third Street Promenade, makes it a convenient stop for tourists exploring the area. While the Will Rogers Highway Marker isn't the official end of Route 66 (which was historically located a mile west at Olympic and Lincoln Boulevards), it holds symbolic importance. The marker represents the culmination of the journey along the 'Will Rogers Highway,' a route that connected communities, fostered commerce, and embodied the spirit of westward expansion. It serves as a reminder of the countless travelers who traversed Route 66, seeking new opportunities, adventures, and a taste of the American dream. Today, the Will Rogers Highway Marker continues to attract visitors from around the world. Route 66 enthusiasts, history buffs, and those simply seeking a connection to the past find inspiration in this unassuming monument. The marker invites contemplation on the legacy of Will Rogers, the significance of Route 66, and the enduring power of the open road. It's a place to reflect on the values of community, perseverance, and the pursuit of happiness that have shaped the American identity. Visiting the Will Rogers Highway Marker offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the allure of a bygone era. It's a chance to connect with the spirit of Will Rogers, the legacy of Route 66, and the enduring appeal of the American West. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a curious explorer, the Will Rogers Highway Marker promises a memorable and enriching experience. The marker itself is a simple bronze plaque mounted on an angled stone base. The plaque reads: 'Will Rogers Highway, Dedicated 1952 to Will Rogers - Humorist - World Traveler - Good Neighbor, This Main Street of America Highway 66, Was the first road he traveled in a career that led him straight to the hearts of his countrymen.' While modest in size, the marker's message resonates deeply, reminding visitors of Rogers' impact on American culture and the highway's role in connecting the nation. The symbolic end of Route 66 is located on the Santa Monica Pier. Like many places on the Mother Road, the 'end' of Route 66 has been relocated from time to time. The Santa Monica Pier remains its symbolic end point. The pier is considered the symbolic end of Route 66 from the Great Lakes to the Pacific.