Curator Talk: Wagon Road to Mother Road

Hear from Museum of Northern Arizona archaeologist and historian David Purcell as he shares insights from the Museum’s research on bygone stretches of the Beale Wagon Road and Route 66 in northern Arizona

Our archaeology team's work directly informed our latest exhibition, Wagon Road to Mother Road, highlighting the role of historical research in shaping public interpretation. The exhibit traces the evolution of travel in northern Arizona and reveals a deep imprint on landscapes, communities and highway heritage. It coincides with the Route 66 Centennial, marking 100 years since the highway’s designation on November 11, 1926.

This presentation takes place on Twilight Thursday, when the Museum extends pay-what-you-wish admission to all visitors starting at 4 p.m.