Across America today, October 31, young and old will celebrate Halloween. It’s a day for scary costumes and doorbell ringing by children for treats that will give them a sugar-rush for days. October 31 is also a day to celebrate more than Halloween. It is a historic day in the America’s modernization.
On October 31, 1913, America’s first coast-to-coast highway officially opened, leading the way for the establishment of the U. S. Interstate Highway System initiated by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in June of 1956.
In its time, The Lincoln Highway would become the Nation’s premier highway, as well known as U.S. 66 was to be in its day and as well known as I-80 and I-95 are today. Americans with automobiles now were able to drive from New York to San Francisco to explore and discover the wonders of America.
From this single road that crossed the North American continent an entire national road system was born in 1956.
Carl G. Fisher – The Man Behind The Lincoln Highway
Carl G. Fisher was an American entrepreneur and promoter known for his significant contributions to the automotive industry and infrastructure development. Born on January 12, 1874, in Greensburg, Indiana, Fisher was a pioneer in automobile racing and manufacturing.
He is best known for his role in developing The Lincoln Highway, conceived as a way to encourage infrastructure that accommodated the burgeoning automobile industry. Fisher also played a key role in the creation of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and was involved in developing Miami Beach, Florida, as a resort destination. Fisher’s vision and entrepreneurial spirit had a lasting impact on American transportation and urban development.
Postscript
For a more detailed history of The Lincoln Highway visit the U. S. Department of Transportation’s website: https://highways.dot.gov/highway-history/general-highway-history/lincoln-highway
Postscript
Many new drivers are not aware of the basis and benefit of knowing the numbering of the United States Interstate Highways and auxiliary roads:
These numbering conventions help travelers navigate the system efficiently.
