Local, state, and federal officials gathered on April 30 to dedicate Birthplace Plaza, a new landmark commemorating Springfield’s role as the birthplace of Route 66. The event marked one hundred years since leaders sent the telegram naming the Mother Road at this site.
The dedication of Birthplace Plaza highlights Springfield’s historical significance in American transportation and culture. Officials said the plaza will serve as a gathering place for residents and visitors to reflect on Route 66’s legacy.
“One hundred years ago, right here in this city, a name was chosen. That name was Route 66,” said Springfield Mayor Jeff Schrag. “At the time, it may have seemed like a small decision. But that name became a symbol of freedom, opportunity, and connection across America. And it all started here. This plaza represents that beginning. It grounds us in our history, but it also invites people from around the world to experience it for themselves. It is a place where residents and visitors alike can gather, reflect and celebrate Route 66.” Other speakers included Lieutenant Governor David Wasinger and Federal Highway Administrator Sean McMaster.
McMaster said: “For 100 years, Route 66 has told the story of America – linking small towns to big opportunities and helping shape our national economy. Thanks to the leadership of President Trump and U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, we are committed to delivering a world-class transportation system. That means safer bridges, smarter project delivery and infrastructure that can handle the demands of all Americans for the next 100 years.” The plaza’s creation involved partnerships among Missouri State University—which provided land—local organizations such as Rotary Clubs of Springfield; Visit Springfield; City Utilities; History Museum on the Square; sponsors including Rotary District Simplified Grant; Missouri Route 66 Centennial Commission; Dake Wells Architecture (planning/design); Toth & Associates (engineering); DeWitt & Associates (construction).
Rusty Worley from Rotary Clubs of Springfield said: “This project would not have been possible without the support of numerous sponsors…It took an outstanding team to deliver this project.” Artistic features include murals by Overlay led by Meg Wagler with artists Emily Ding and Osiris Rain; Ghost of Colonial Hotel sculpture by Juan Garaizabal through Sculpture Walk under Bridget Bechtel’s leadership; an intricate mosaic map by Christine Schilling; an interpretive kiosk by Pinnacle Sign Group; plus time capsule/virtual tour elements led by History Museum on the Square Executive Director Sean Fitzgibbons.
Micheal Wehrenberg from Springfield Rotary’s Presidents Council said: “As we stand here today…it is worth remembering that the moment we are commemorating did not happen by accident…Rotary brought the right people together at the right time…Route 66 is one of those ideas…today…we are not just looking back at that moment—we are continuing it.”
Springfield focuses on ethical local governance aimed at community benefit according to its official website. The city operates under a council-manager form adopted in 1953 with nine council members setting policy according to its official website. Historic preservation remains important locally according to its official website. The city was also site for key events such as Battle of Wilson’s Creek during Civil War era—and played an early role in establishing Route 66 through its public square according to its official website. Serving as county seat for Greene County in southwestern Missouri according to its official website, Springfield originated when John Polk Campbell donated land in 1833 before incorporation as town five years later according to its official website.
