The Route 66 Diary
"We saw 6 rainbows — 3 at the same time. We were not in rain at the time."
— Roger McCullough, July 21, 1966
The Trip
In July 1966, the McCullough family packed the car — Roger, Betty, and their children Phil and Nancy — and headed west from Ohio on Route 66. Twenty days, fourteen states, one fuel pump, one set of shock absorbers, and recurring radiator trouble from Arizona to the Rockies.
They visited family in Texas and California, saw the Grand Canyon and Disneyland, played slots in Las Vegas, toured Mormon Temple Square, and crossed the Rocky Mountains. By August 2nd they were ahead of schedule and nearly home.
The Notebook
Betty kept a small notebook — typed itinerary in front, expense ledgers for gas, food, motels, and tourist attractions, and handwritten diary observations in the back. Fourteen pages survive: the day’s costs tallied in columns, the day’s sights captured in Betty’s cursive.
From the Notebook
One drunk near Indianapolis. Remains of a wreck near it.
Stay with Lyndon Davis Family.
Saw a 'Hell's Angel' on motorcycle — Cop stopped him.
Called Home. Found out that we can only get an 'auto cabin.'
We saw 6 rainbows — 3 at the same time.
Had a wonderful time with Gardners.
On desert we had radiator trouble.
Car won't start. Had to find garage and leave it for a couple days.
See sights several days.
Enjoyed Disneyland — Took tour which was a big help.
All of us ready to head home.
Altogether today we spent over $100.
Found it all unusual and fascinating.
Crossed Rockies today — Quite an experience.
A very rich experience!
Heading east.
Will arrive fairly early on.
The final stretch.
Almost there.
Home.