The Jefferson Highway Association is proud to announce the installation of new signage across Oklahoma, officially marking the historic route through the state. This significant development comes after years of dedicated effort, culminating in the placement of signs that will guide travelers along this historic route.
“The Oklahoma signage has been a long road and has taken much effort with meetings, mapping, planning and trips to the Capitol,” said Delaina Durrett-Stevens, President of the Oklahoma Chapter of the Jefferson Highway Association. “Thanks to funding from the Oklahoma Historical Society, we’re able to get these signs installed along the route. We cannot be more excited to see this come together. This is a true testament to the dedication and perseverance of everyone involved in this project.”
This project comes after the 2021 signing of Senate Bill 8 into law, by Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt recognizing the Jefferson Highway as a historic byway, paving the way for the state’s rich history to be celebrated through these markers. The highway, also known as the “Pine to Palm Highway,” stretches north-south from Winnipeg, Canada, to New Orleans, Louisiana, running through seven states (Minnesota, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas, and Louisiana). Originally established in 1915, the Jefferson Highway holds historical significance as one of the earliest transcontinental highways in the United States, completed nearly a decade before Route 66. Though largely forgotten for decades, the route is now being reborn and progressing as a unique heritage byway portal across America. The Oklahoma portion of the route primarily follows what is today known as US Highway 69.
The new signs mark a significant achievement not just for the Jefferson Highway Association but for the state of Oklahoma as a whole. These markers will not only serve as a guide for modern-day travelers but will also stand as a tribute to the state’s historical significance along this historic route.
The design of the signs uses Oklahoma’s new logo and includes a Jefferson Highway image similar to original historic markings that were once painted on utility poles up and down the route in the 1910’s and 20’s. After the initial installation by ODOT, there will be some gaps in the signage due to sections of the route being located off state corridors. The association has plans to work with communities to fill in the gaps over the next year.
Roger Bell, National President of the Jefferson Highway Association, expressed his excitement about the progress being made in Oklahoma. “The Jefferson Highway is now awakening in many locations across the route in the United States as it continues to develop into an important heritage byway across our nation. Our great supporters in Oklahoma have continued to push forward for this important signage, leading to the marking of this historic route in our state. We are so pleased to see this signage being installed and are very excited about the future of the route and its tourism potential.”
Oklahoma launched the first state chapter, within the national organization, earlier this year and has already made significant strides in promoting the historic route. The chapter is dedicated to preserving the legacy of the highway, by focusing on educational outreaches, supporting local tourism and working to maintain and enhance historic sites and attractions along the Oklahoma portion of the highway.
During the 2024 International Jefferson Highway Conference, held April 24-27, in Alexandria, Louisiana, the national organization announced the selection of McAlester, Oklahoma, as the next site for their annual conference, set to take place June 4-7, 2025. This prominent event is expected to bring together historians, enthusiasts, and community leaders from across North America and beyond to explore the rich history of the Jefferson Highway and further highlight Oklahoma’s role in preserving this important piece of American history.
“We are extremely honored to host the 2025 International Jefferson Highway Conference in McAlester,” said Billy Sumner, McAlester Tourism Manager. “McAlester has a deep connection with the highway and we hope this event not only highlights the highway’s historical significance but also the hard work and commitment the chapter and state has made to preserving this vital piece of our heritage. The city is grateful for ODOT’s dedication to this project and appreciates the support of everyone involved.”
For more information about the Jefferson Highway and its historic significance, please visit: www. jeffersonhighway.org or follow along on Facebook at www.fb.com/jeffersonhighwayassociation. For information on the Oklahoma Chapter of the Jefferson Highway Association please reach out to Delania Durrett-Stevens at delainastevens@gmail. com or Billy Sumner at billy.sumner@cityofmcalester. com About the Jefferson Highway Association The Jefferson Highway Association is dedicated to the preservation and promotion of the historic Jefferson Highway, a route that has played a crucial role in the development of transportation across North America. The Jefferson Highway Association continues to advocate for the recognition and celebration of this historic route through educational programs, events, and partnerships.
