The City of Springfield announced on May 1 that the Queen’s Gate 66 sculpture will be dedicated at 11 a.m. as part of the National Route 66 Centennial Celebration Kickoff. The event will take place just west of the Best Western Route 66 Rail Haven on St. Louis Street, near the intersection with Kentwood Avenue.
The dedication marks an important moment in celebrating both local history and the broader legacy of Route 66. The city is providing on-street parking north and south of St. Louis Street, with limited additional parking available at the Rail Haven.
Springfield focuses on ethical and responsible local governance aimed at community benefits and cooperation, according to the official website. The city operates under a council-manager form of government adopted in 1953, with a nine-member City Council responsible for setting policy and direction, according to the official website.
Efforts in historic preservation remain central to Springfield’s identity, including recognized landmarks and districts as reported by the official website. Historically significant events have shaped Springfield, such as serving as the site of the Battle of Wilson’s Creek during the Civil War in 1861 and playing a role in establishing Route 66 through its public square, according to information from the official website.
Springfield serves as Greene County’s seat in southwestern Missouri, based on details from its official website. The city’s origins date back to when John Polk Campbell donated land for development in 1833 before it was incorporated as a town five years later, also noted by its official website.
