The Lincoln Highway: Paving the Way Across America
Roads in America Before 1912
In 1912, the United States had few roads suitable for automobiles. Of the 2.5 million miles of roads, most were unpaved dirt—bumpy and dusty in dry weather, and nearly impassable when wet. The few “improved” roads were typically found near towns and cities and were considered upgraded if they had been graded. Gravel or brick surfaces were rare luxuries, while concrete and tarmac had yet to be introduced.
Even more problematic, these roads often didn’t connect settlements. Instead, they radiated outward from town centers without forming a coherent network. For long-distance travel, trains remained the most reliable
The Birth of the Lincoln Highway
The Lincoln Highway changed everything. Conceived as the first improved transcontinental automobile road in the United States, it stretched from Times Square in New York City to Lincoln Park in San Francisco, California, covering over 3,400 miles and passing through 13 states.
This ambitious project marked a turning point in American infrastructure, offering a continuous route for motorists across the country. Today, portions of the Lincoln Highway are designated as a National Scenic Byway in Illinois, Iowa, and Nebraska, and as state byways in western Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Indiana. The route also continues through New York, New Jersey, West Virginia, Wyoming, Utah, Nevada, and California, though these segments are not officially designated as byways.
A Tribute to Abraham Lincoln
More than just a road, the Lincoln Highway was also the first national memorial to President Abraham Lincoln, established nine years before the dedication of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., in 1922. It was a symbolic and practical tribute to Lincoln’s legacy, reflecting the spirit of unity and progress.
"The Main Street Across America"
As the first automobile road to span the continent, the Lincoln Highway brought prosperity to hundreds of cities, towns, and villages along its path. Businesses flourished, tourism grew, and communities became more connected. The highway earned the affectionate nickname “The Main Street Across America”, symbolizing its central role in shaping the nation’s road culture and economy.

Day 3 of 19: Gettysburg PA to Ligonier PA– History, Roadside Wonders, and Remembrance
Start each day with a full tank of fuel and a sense of adventure.
Leaving Gettysburg, history surrounds you. From the house once occupied by General Robert E. Lee to the site where the first shot of the Battle of Gettysburg was fired, the town is filled with markers and monuments that commemorate its pivotal role in the American Civil War.
As travel along Route 30 increased over the decades, so did the number of roadside attractions. Many of these quirky stops remain today, offering a glimpse into Americana:
Mister Ed’s Elephant Museum: Home to over 12,000 elephant figurines from around the world, this whimsical museum is a favorite among travelers.
The Giant Coffee Pot in Bedford, PA: A classic example of novelty architecture, this oversized coffee pot once served as a lunch stand and now stands as a roadside icon.
Not all attractions are vintage. The Rays Hill Tunnel East Portal, part of the original Pennsylvania Turnpike, was abandoned in 1968 after road realignment. Today, visitors can walk through the mile-long tunnel, which served as a filming location for the 2009 post-apocalyptic film “The Road.”
Along the way, keep an eye out for murals celebrating the Lincoln Highway’s legacy. Towns like Stoystown, Everett, and McConnellsburg feature prominent artworks that depict the highway’s history and its impact on American travel.
One of the most poignant stops on today’s journey is the Flight 93 National Memorial in Stonycreek Township. This site honors the passengers and crew of United Airlines Flight 93, who courageously fought back against hijackers during the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. Their actions prevented the plane from reaching its intended target, and it crashed in a nearby field, killing all 44 people on board, including the four terrorists.
The memorial stands as a powerful tribute to bravery and sacrifice, reminding visitors of the enduring spirit of those who gave their lives to protect others.

200 years of history encompassed in one day along the Lincoln Highway makes this a 4 star day