EPISODE · Apr 8, 2026 · 49 MIN
#45 - The Angel of Route 66: How Angel Delgadillo Saved Historic Route 66
from Drinking Horn Meadcast · host Drinking Horn Meadery
What happens when a highway disappears… but refuses to die?In this special episode of the Drinking Horn Meadcast, we sit down with Angel Delgadillo—the man known around the world as “The Angel of Route 66”—to tell the story of how Historic Route 66 was brought back to life.From growing up in Seligman, Arizona surrounded by music and family traditions that have lasted over 80 years, to watching his hometown nearly disappear when Interstate 40 bypassed it… Angel shares a firsthand account of one of the most important preservation stories in American history.We dive into:What it felt like when Route 66 towns were left behindHow one small barbershop became the birthplace of a movementThe founding of the Route 66 Association and the fight to save the roadThe surprising impact of Cars in bringing new life—and young families—back to Route 66Why the spirit of Route 66 still matters today, especially as we approach the Route 66 CentennialThis is more than a history lesson—it’s a story about resilience, community, and the enduring magic of the open road.If you’ve ever dreamed of a classic American road trip, this episode will make you want to pack your bags and experience Route 66 for yourself.📍 And if you find yourself in Flagstaff on April 28th, come join us right on Route 66 at the Mead Hall and all around downtown for the Route 66 Centennial Weenie Walk and raise a glass to the road that brought us all together.🎧 Listen, share, and help keep the spirit of Route 66 alive.*Special thanks to 1950's Dream World (YouTube) for the perfect song!
What this episode covers
What happens when a highway disappears… but refuses to die?In this special episode of the Drinking Horn Meadcast, we sit down with Angel Delgadillo—the man known around the world as “The Angel of Route 66”—to tell the story of how Historic Route 66 was brought back to life.From growing up in Seligman, Arizona surrounded by music and family traditions that have lasted over 80 years, to watching his hometown nearly disappear when Interstate 40 bypassed it… Angel shares a firsthand account of one of the most important preservation stories in American history.We dive into:What it felt like when Route 66 towns were left behindHow one small barbershop became the birthplace of a movementThe founding of the Route 66 Association and the fight to save the roadThe surprising impact of Cars in bringing new life—and young families—back to Route 66Why the spirit of Route 66 still matters today, especially as we approach the Route 66 CentennialThis is more than a history lesson—it’s a story about resilience, community, and the enduring magic of the open road.If you’ve ever dreamed of a classic American road trip, this episode will make you want to pack your bags and experience Route 66 for yourself.📍 And if you find yourself in Flagstaff on April 28th, come join us right on Route 66 at the Mead Hall and all around downtown for the Route 66 Centennial Weenie Walk and raise a glass to the road that brought us all together.🎧 Listen, share, and help keep the spirit of Route 66 alive.*Special thanks to 1950's Dream World (YouTube) for the perfect song!
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#45 - The Angel of Route 66: How Angel Delgadillo Saved Historic Route 66
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