Sun shines along the Mother Road in Kansas

Located in the luscious hills of southeast Kansas, Baxter Springs, Riverton and Galena represent a microcosm (13.2) of the 2,451 miles of Route 66. From mining and cattle to roadside services, these communities represent portions of the Heartland along the Mother Road as well as sections of the Jefferson Highway and historic Native American and cattle route, the Shawnee Trail.

It is also a patch of highway where you can easily move past the communities and enter Oklahoma or Missouri in a matter of less than 1500 seconds. During that stretch you will miss on several things. Beginning in Galena,

https://www.facebook.com/pages/4-Women-On-The-Route/116031501758684

Vestiges of an by-gone era.

It is currently Tamco, an asphalt shingle company.

Onto Riverton

A staple in Riverton since 1925.

After a ham sandwich at he Old Riverton Store owned by the Eisler Brothers, a decision needs to be made.

After heading west in a "round-a-bout" way it is time to stop and cross a portal back in time, the Bush Creek Marsh Arch Rainbow Bridge.

The asphalt leads to Military Avenue in Baxter Springs.

Off the beaten track is a reminder to never forget the past.

A journey to the Baxter Springs Heritage Center and Museum.

After leaving the museum it is time to visit the men and women who died serving their country at Baxter Springs National Cemetery #2.

After paying respects it is time to venture into the Sooner or Show Me State where one will continue to ride down Mr. Rogers' highway.

http://www.eislerbros.com/ http://www.nps.gov/history/nr/travel/national_cemeteries/Kansas/Baxter_Springs_City_Cemetery_Soldiers_Lot.html http://www.baxterspringsmuseum.org/