As Route 66 celebrates its centennial this year, communities across its vast expanse are honoring the historic highway with festivals and exhibits. However, a significant chapter of its history has remained largely untold—the stories of LGBTQ+ travelers who journeyed along this iconic route.
Alysse Dalessandro, a Cleveland-based queer femme writer and founder of Ready to Stareis on a mission to bring these hidden narratives to light. Her journey along Route 66, from June 7 through July 1, aims to document the past, present, and future of the LGBTQ+ experience along America’s most famous highway.
Edwardsville: A Hub of Activism and Queer History
During her travels, Dalessandro encountered a vibrant community in Edwardsville, Illinoiswhere she met Andi Smiththe founder of the weekly Edwardsville Fridays at Noon protests. What began as a solo demonstration has grown into a powerful community movement, drawing between 100 to 300 participants weekly. Smith’s efforts have even garnered recognition from Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzkerwho applauded her dedication in an speech.
The town’s commitment to activism and inclusivity was evident in the numerous signs displayed in the town square, including messages of support for the LGBTQ+ community and calls for protecting democracy. This atmosphere of acceptance and advocacy has made Edwardsville a beacon of hope and safety for many.
Archival Discoveries: Uncovering Queer History
Dalessandro’s journey led her to the Missouri Historical Society in St. Louis, where she explored the Gateway to Pride collection. This extensive archive preserves decades of LGBTQ+ history, including personal letters, photographs, and police records. Among these documents, she found a 1954 police record detailing the arrest of individuals at a St. Louis gay bar. Notably, one of the arrested individuals was a 28-year-old shipping clerk from Edwardsville.
This discovery highlights the potential role of Route 66 as a pathway for LGBTQ+ individuals to connect and find community during a time when such connections were often dangerous and clandestine. The highway, symbolizing freedom and reinvention, may have also served as a lifeline for those seeking acceptance and belonging.
The Present and Future of LGBTQ+ Communities Along Route 66
While the secrecy that once shaped LGBTQ+ history may feel distant, the challenges faced by the community today are very real. Recent years have seen a wave of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation and policies that have complicated daily life and travel for many, particularly transgender individuals. However, along Route 66, communities are working to fill these gaps and provide support.
In Springfield, Illinoisthe Phoenix Center offers a range of resources, including housing support, HIV testing, and harm reduction services. The center’s executive director, Teresa Silvanoted that Illinois’ reputation as an LGBTQ+-affirming state has attracted many newcomers seeking safety and support. The Phoenix Center has become a vital hub for those relocating from states with restrictive policies.
As Dalessandro continues her journey, she aims to shed light on these stories and the ongoing efforts to create inclusive and supportive communities along Route 66. Her work serves as a reminder of the importance of recognizing and celebrating the diverse histories that have shaped this iconic highway.
