A century ago, highways were exclusively used for local travel, and trains were the fastest means of transportation throughout the nation. The Lincoln Highway, which connected Times Square in New York City with San Francisco, California, became the first transcontinental highway when it was completed in 1913. The present scenario marks the route’s 110th anniversary of guiding tourists away from the main thoroughfares to enjoy the country’s picturesque little towns and breathtaking rural scenery. Since newer highways and bypasses avoided them, a number of settlements along the Lincoln Highway declined and were largely forgotten. Towns in Pennsylvania, like Bedford and Iowa, along the original Lincoln Highway path are two examples. Despite the fact that some communities were bypassed, others experienced a rebirth of interest because of their historical relevance and Lincoln Highway connection.
Forgotten Towns Along the Lincoln Highway
The fastest way to move throughout the country a century ago was by rail, and highways were only utilised for local travel. When the Lincoln Highway was finished in 1913, it was the first transcontinental highway, linking Times Square in New York City with San Francisco, California. Today is the 110th anniversary of the route, which has led travellers away from the major highways to take in the stunning rural landscapes and charming small villages of the nation. Along the Lincoln Highway, several communities deteriorated and were mostly forgotten as newer roads and bypasses avoided them. Two examples are Pennsylvanian towns along the original Lincoln Highway path, such as Bedford and Iowa. Some localities saw a resurgence of interest due to their historical significance and Lincoln Highway connection, even as others were bypassed.
Who Constructed the Lincoln Highway?
The following people worked to build the Lincoln Highway:
1. The Lincoln Roadway Association (LHA) is a private organisation that was established in 1913 to develop and promote the roadway.
2. Local governments: Cities, counties, and states contributed to the construction and maintenance of the highway.
3. Contractors and engineers: Various contractors and engineers worked on building and improving the road.
4. State highway departments: State highway departments played a crucial role in constructing and maintaining the highway.
The construction of the Lincoln Highway was a collaborative effort between private organisations, local governments, and state agencies.
When was the Lincoln Highway Constructed?
The Lincoln Highway was built between 1913 and 1927. Even though each section had a different exact timeline, important turning points include:
- Planning started in 1913 with the formation of the Lincoln Highway Association.
- From 1913 to 1927, the highway’s construction and improvement advanced, with different parts finished at various points in time.
- When the Lincoln Highway was officially completed in 1927, it marked a significant turning point in the history of American transportation.
The Lincoln Highway’s development was essential in forming the nation’s road system and fostering economic expansion.
What Are the Forgotten Town Along the Lincoln Highway?
America’s first transcontinental roadway, the Lincoln Highway, travels through several abandoned communities that highlight the nation’s rich past. Among the noteworthy ones are the following:
- Nevada
- Cisco: A ghost town in Utah, bypassed by Interstate 70, which was once a thriving community with a significant uranium discovery in the 1950s.
- Ward: A former mining town with beehive-shaped charcoal ovens, now a roadside attraction near Ely.
- Austin: A town with a population of 190, featuring an abandoned tourist office filled with old brochures.
- Ely: A former mining town with a rich history, known for its bright neon lights and the Hotel Nevada, a six-story casino.
- Iowa
- Reed-Niland Corner in Colo: A historic spot with a café, vintage gas station, and motel, serving travellers since the 1920s.
- Belle Plaine: Home to a café that has served locals and travellers since 1928.
- Utah
- Osceola: A ghost town near Great Basin National Park, with a history of mining.
- California
- Williams: A town along Historic US Highway 99W, featuring the Sacramento Valley Museum and Williams Town Square.
These towns’ historic structures, museums, and landmarks provide a window into America’s past. Travelling to these locations can be an intriguing experience that lets visitors discover the rich history of the nation and journey back in time.
FAQs On Lincoln Highway Forgotten Towns
- Which Lincoln Highway settlements have been forgotten?
- Ward (NV), Ely (NV), Austin (NV), Osceola (NV), Reed-Niland Corner (IA), and Belle Plaine (IA).
- Why are these towns considered “forgotten”?
- Many were bypassed by newer highways or experienced economic decline.
- Can visitors explore these towns?
- Yes, many offer historic landmarks, museums, and attractions.