Hollywood on route 66

The history of Hollywood along Route 66 in Victorville, California, is a fascinating blend of film industry roots and Americana. Here are some key points about this area's historical significance:

Early Development Route 66: Established in 1926, Route 66 became a vital artery for travelers heading west. It connected Chicago to Santa Monica, passing through numerous small towns, including Victorville.

Victorville’s Growth: Victorville began as a railroad town and grew rapidly in the 20th century. Its location along Route 66 made it a popular stop for travelers.

Hollywood Influence

Filming Location- During the mid-20th century, Victorville became a filming location for several Hollywood productions. The area's desert landscapes and unique architecture appealed to filmmakers.

**The California Hotel**: Built in the 1940s, this hotel became a popular spot for Hollywood stars and travelers along Route 66. Its vintage charm reflects the era's style.

Victorville's association with Route 66 has made it part of the larger narrative of American pop culture, often depicted in films, music, and literature.

Several films have been shot in and around Victorville, California, particularly due to its location along the historic Route 66. Here are a few notable examples:

**"The Hitcher" (1986)**: This cult classic thriller features scenes filmed in the Victorville area, showcasing the desert landscapes and the iconic highway.

**"The Terminator" (1984)**: Some locations in and around Victorville were used for this iconic sci-fi film, contributing to its dystopian atmosphere.

**"Bagdad Café" (1987)**: Although primarily set in Newberry Springs, nearby Victorville played a role in capturing the unique essence of the Mojave Desert.

**"Duel" (1971)**: Directed by Steven Spielberg, this made-for-TV movie about a mysterious truck driver features scenes filmed along Route 66, including the Victorville area.

**"The Locket" (1946)**: Parts of this drama were filmed in Victorville, showcasing its early Hollywood connections.

Several music videos have been filmed in and around Victorville, California, particularly along the iconic Route 66. Here are a few notable examples:

**"Gettin' You Home" by Chris Young**: This romantic country song features scenes filmed along Route 66, showcasing the nostalgic American road.

**"Route 66" by Bobby Troup**: Various renditions of this classic song have included visuals that highlight the allure of Route 66, and some music videos incorporate locations from Victorville.

*"The Way" by Fastball**: This song's video captures the essence of a road trip, with some shots reminiscent of the landscapes along Route 66.

**"California" by Joni Mitchell**: While not solely focused on Route 66, parts of the video reflect the journey and the California experience, with visuals that evoke the spirit of the highway.

Cultural Significance

A Hub for Travelers**: As a stop along Route 66, Victorville welcomed many travelers, contributing to the nostalgic image of the American road trip and the "Mother Road."

**The Route 66 Museum**: Opened in 2000, this museum in Victorville celebrates the history of the famous highway and its cultural impact, showcasing memorabilia from Hollywood's Golden Age and the Route 66 era.

*Be part of the growing history of Route 66*

**Support Local Businesses**

- **Shop Local**: Visit and support businesses along Route 66, such as diners, shops, and motels that embody the spirit of the highway.

- **Promote Events**: Attend and promote local events that celebrate Route 66 culture, like festivals or car shows.

**Get Involved with the Route 66 Museum**

- **Volunteer**: Offer your time to help with events, exhibitions, or maintenance at the Route 66 Museum.

- **Participate in Programs**: Join workshops or programs organized by the museum that focus on the history and culture of Route 66.

**Engage with Community Initiatives**

- **Join Local Groups**: Connect with organizations dedicated to preserving Route 66 history, such as historical societies or tourism boards.

- **Attend Meetings**: Participate in town hall meetings or community discussions about preserving and promoting the Route 66 heritage.

**Document Your Journey**

- **Create Content**: Share your experiences along Route 66 through blogs, social media, or videos, highlighting local attractions and history.

- **Photography**: Capture the unique aspects of Route 66 in Victorville and share them to inspire others to explore the area.

**Participate in Restoration Projects**

- **Preservation Efforts**: Get involved in initiatives aimed at restoring historic sites or signage along Route 66.

- **Advocacy**: Advocate for the protection of Route 66’s historical and cultural sites, raising awareness about their significance.

**Plan Events**

- **Host Meetups**: Organize gatherings or road trips with friends and family to explore Route 66 and its attractions.

- **Create a Festival**: If you're inclined, consider organizing a small festival or event that celebrates Route 66 and its culture.

By engaging with the local community and sharing your passion for Route 66, you can help preserve its history and contribute to its ongoing legacy in Victorville.