What are the opening hours?

Monday 10am - 5pm Tuesday 10am - 5pm Wednesday 9am - 5pm Thursday 10am - 5pm Friday 10am - 5pm

Route History

Name: Route History
Address: 737 E. Cook Street, Springfield, IL, 62703, US
Telephone: (217) 503-4129
Price range: $
Rating: 5

Contact information, map and directions, contact form, opening hours, services, ratings, photos, videos and announcements from Route History, History Museum, 737 E. Cook Street, Springfield, IL.
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Route History is a space to experience and learn about the tragedy, resilience, and excellence of Black people along the Historic Route 66 highway and in the city of Springfield Illinois.

07/04/2026

🇺🇸 Happy 4th of July! ❤️🤍💙

06/26/2026

🎤 Meet Minnie Lightford, the talented and charismatic guide behind our Virtual Reality Route 66 experience! From her captivating blues performances to sharing the rich history of the Illinois leg of Route 66, Minnie brings every story to life.

✨ Get ready to step into history with one unforgettable guide.

06/22/2026

A jazz legend you need to know. 🎷✨

Born in Brooklyn, Illinois, Hamiet Bluiett was a groundbreaking saxophonist, composer, and one of the most influential voices in modern jazz. His music and legacy continue to inspire generations around the world.

06/19/2026

A celebration of freedom. A legacy of resilience. A history that continues to inspire. Happy Juneteenth! ❤️🖤💚

06/08/2026

Davis was a young artist learning from his mentor, Elwood Buchanan, in East St. Louis.

Their story is one of talent, guidance, and the power of community in shaping a musical legend.

Discover how East St. Louis helped influence the life and career of Miles Davis as part of our immersive Virtual Reality Route 66 experience.

Learn more about Miles Davis and Elwood Buchanan at the East St. Louis stop on our virtual reality tour.

📍 Book your visit today!

06/05/2026

🎸 Join us on our first stop along a musical journey through Route 66 as we celebrate the artists who helped shape America's soundtrack.

Known as the Father of Rock & Roll, Chuck Berry revolutionized American music with his groundbreaking guitar style, energetic performances, and timeless influence on generations of artists.

From St. Louis to stages around the world, Berry's impact can still be heard in music today.

Discover more stories of the Black musicians, entrepreneurs, and trailblazers who left their mark on Route 66.

06/01/2026

Its African American Music Appreciation Month!

June is a big month at Route History, because so many Black musicians have made their way through Route 66. Make sure you're following us on here to join us on this musical journey through route history.

You can celebrate with us in person when you book your tour at www.routehistory.net

05/25/2026

🇺🇸 Happy Memorial Day!

Today we pause to remember and honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice serving our country. Because of their courage and dedication, we are able to enjoy the freedoms we have today.

We Remember. We Honor. We Thank. 🙏

Wishing everyone a meaningful Memorial Day. Take a moment today to reflect on those who served and the families who carry on their legacy. ❤️🤍💙

05/11/2026

Annie Malone was more than a beauty pioneer — she was a visionary who created opportunity, empowerment, and community during a time of segregation and limited access for Black Americans.

Born in 1869 in Metropolis, Annie Malone became one of America’s first Black female millionaires after building a successful beauty and cosmetic empire centered around products designed specifically for Black women. Through her Poro System, tens of thousands of women were trained in beauty culture and entrepreneurship, helping many achieve financial independence and economic stability. Among her most notable students were Madam C. J. Walker and even legendary musician Chuck Berry.

In the 1930s, Malone relocated her business from St. Louis to Chicago, where Poro College operated as a cosmetology school, beauty product factory, and training center. It also became a safe and welcoming space for Black travelers during segregation and was proudly listed in the The Negro Motorist Green Book as a tourist home.

Beyond beauty, Poro College served as a cultural and business hub where Black organizations and leaders could gather when Jim Crow laws denied access to many public spaces. Annie Malone’s legacy lives on through the generations she inspired, empowered, and uplifted through education, business, and community support. ✨

05/06/2026

Did you know that long before social media reviews and GPS, black travelers relied on trusted places like Cansler’s Lounge to find safety, community and hospitality on the road? Located in Springfield, Illinois, this Black-owned tavern earned its place in the Black Motorist Green Book during the Jim Crow era, serving as a welcoming stop for travelers navigating Route 66 and segregation in America.

Businesses like Cansler’s Lounge were more than nightlife spots, they were symbols of resilience, culture, and connection within Springfield’s Black community.

Visit Route History Museum to explore more stories that helped shape Springfield’s rich Black history and Route 66 legacy.

Address

737 E. Cook Street
Springfield, IL
62703

Opening Hours

Monday	10am - 5pm
Tuesday	10am - 5pm
Wednesday	9am - 5pm
Thursday	10am - 5pm
Friday	10am - 5pm

Telephone

(217) 503-4129

Website

http://www.routehistory.net/, https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_3AdU3xHNT2Su6puTZveecA#/registration

Alerts

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