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Historic Jefferson Highway

by Big Blend Radio Network

Broadcasting every 4th Thursday, this Big Blend Radio podcast focuses on the historic Jefferson Highway, an international highway that runs from Winnipeg, Canada down through Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas, to New Orleans, Louisiana. There are some parts of Arkansas that were also part of the historic route. It was created by the Jefferson Highway Association, which was originally founded in 1915. The Jefferson Highway, also known as “The Pines to the Palms Highway,” is a historic vacation route that is going through a tourism rebirth and it’s exciting for travelers and destinations alike!

Publisher-supplied feed metadata · PodParley refreshed Sep 25, 2026 · Source feed

Episodes

  1. Jefferson Highway News: Joplin Recap, St. Cloud 2027 & New Travel Guide

    This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Show is packed with news from the road. As always, the show features Roger Bell, Co-Host and President of the Jefferson Highway Association, along with host and producer Lisa D. Smith. Fresh home from the Crossroads of America...

  2. Getting to Know Phyllis Bitner - Miners Hall Museum & the Jefferson Highway

    This "Getting to Know You" episode was recorded back in April with Phyllis Bitner, Chair of the Miners Hall Museum Foundation in Franklin, Kansas. Phyllis shares how Miners Hall Museum grew out of the 2003 tornado that leveled the town's community center, why the museum's twelve exhibit…

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  3. Author Laurel Corona on Aloha Wanderwell Takes the Wheel: From Winnipeg to World Explorer

    Award-winning author Laurel Corona joins Big Blend Radio to discuss her captivating new historical novel, "Aloha Wanderwell Takes the Wheel," inspired by the extraordinary true story of pioneering adventurer Aloha Wanderwell—the first woman to drive around the world. Born in Winnipeg…

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  4. The Story of America's Early Motor Camping

    This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Show explores the fascinating story of America's early motor camping movement and how it forever changed road travel, tourism, and hospitality across the United States. As always, the show features Roger Bell, Co-Host and President of...

  5. Gorillas, Coal Mines, and Fried Chicken: Exploring the Jefferson Highway in Crawford County, Kansas

    Celebrate Pittsburg, Kansas' 150th Anniversary Year with this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Podcast exploring the history, culture, food, music, and heritage of Crawford County in Southeast Kansas—just in time for America 250, the Route 66 Centennial, and the upcoming...

  6. Discovering Butler, Missouri: The Heart of Jefferson Highway History

    Just in time for National Road Trip Day (May 22), this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Show explores the history, heritage tourism, and community spirit of Butler, Missouri, a vibrant destination along the historic Jefferson Highway. As always, the show features Roger...

  7. Discover America’s Heartland: Historic Jefferson Highway & Route 66

    This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Show explores the rich history, culture, and enduring appeal of two of America’s iconic roadways — the Jefferson Highway and Route 66. As always, the show features Roger Bell, Co-Host and President of the Jefferson Highway…

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  8. Jefferson Highway & Route 66: Crossroads of American History

    This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Show features Roger Bell, President of the Jefferson Highway Association, who shares insights on the connections between the historic Jefferson Highway and Route 66, along with a glimpse of the upcoming Crossroads of America…

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  9. Jefferson Highway Travel in Greenville , Texas: Part Four - The Foodie Finale

    Welcome to the final installment of our 4-day special series, "Find Your Heart in Greenville, Texas" part of the Historic Jefferson Highway Podcast. Today is the Foodie Finale! Greenville’s culinary scene is thriving, blending historic atmosphere with modern flavor. Along with telling you about...

  10. Find Your Heart on the Jefferson Highway in Greenville, TX: Part 3 - Stage & Style

    Welcome back to Day 3 of our 4-day special series, "Find Your Heart in Greenville," part of the Historic Jefferson Highway Podcast. This series is the result of our personal visit back in the fall of 2025, a trip we agreed to after meeting the incredible Stacey Foley at the Jefferson Highway...

  11. Find Your Heart on the Jefferson Highway in Greenville, TX: Part 2 - Growth, Integrity & Local Soul

    Welcome back to Day 2 of our special Jefferson Highway 4-part series, "Find Your Heart in Greenville, Texas." After exploring the incredible history at the Audie Murphy/American Cotton Museum in Part 1, today we look at the living, breathing pulse of this Northeast Texas community. Recorded in…

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  12. Find Your Heart on the Jefferson Highway in Greenville, Texas: Part One - The Hero & The Heritage

    Welcome to Part One of our special 4-Part series: "Find Your Heart in Greenville, Texas." The historic Jefferson Highway is a 115-year-old international treasure, stretching from the pines of Winnipeg to the palms of New Orleans. Today, we anchor in Northeast Texas to explore why Greenville is…

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  13. Black History Experiences in Avoyelles Parish, Louisiana

    This shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Travel Avoyelles" Podcast dives into the rich culture, history, and heart of Avoyelles Parish, Louisiana (a Jefferson Highway destination), with cohosts Mary Guillory and Wilbert Carmouche of the Avoyelles Commission of Tourism. Joining the conversation…

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  14. Slow Travel Adventures in Louisiana’s River Parishes

    On this shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Food, Wine & Travel" Podcast Channel with the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), travel writer Kathryn (Kat) Anderson shares her immersive journey through Louisiana’s scenic River Parishes which are part of the historic...

  15. Colo, Iowa: Preserving Highway History at the Reed-Niland Corner

    This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Show takes us to the historic Reed-Niland Corner in Colo, Iowa, a beloved crossroads and symbol of Americana along the Jefferson Highway. As always, the show features Roger Bell, Co-Host and President of the Jefferson Highway...

  16. Celebrating 110 years of the Historic Jefferson Highway

    This special episode of the Jefferson Highway Podcast celebrates 110 years since Edwin T. Meredith first launched the idea of the Jefferson Highway, the historic “Pine to Palm” route connecting Winnipeg to New Orleans. Cohost Roger Bell, President of the Jefferson Highway Association, joins the...

  17. The Dirty South – An Anniversary Film Special

    In this Big Blend Radio episode, we celebrate the two year anniversary of "The Dirty South," a critically acclaimed indie film written and directed by Natchitoches local Matthew Yerby, and starring Willa Holland, Shane West, and Dermot Mulroney. Joined by filmmaker Matthew Yerby, producer Suzann...

  18. Exploring Louisiana’s Historic River Road

    In this on-location episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Travel with Terri” Show, hosts Terri and Ron Guthrie explore the River Road region of Louisiana, uncovering the fascinating history, plantations, and cultural significance that line the Mississippi River between Baton Rouge and New Orleans. They...

  19. The Legacy of Carroll Shelby and the Spirit of Pittsburg, Texas

    Explore the rich history, community pride, and small-town charm of Pittsburg, Texas, in this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Historic Jefferson Highway” Show. Co-host Roger Bell, President of the Jefferson Highway Association, is joined by Pittsburg Mayor David Abernathy to share insights into the...

  20. Autumn Adventures on the Historic Jefferson Highway - Part 2

    From festivals in Texas, Oklahoma and Louisiana, to scenic retreats in Arkansas and historic stops in Kansas and Missouri, Part 2 of Autumn Adventures on the Jefferson Highway continues our fall journey along this legendary “Pines to Palms Highway.” 🍂 In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s…

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  21. Autumn Adventures on the Historic Jefferson Highway

    It’s time for Fall Fun on the Historic Jefferson Highway! In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Historic Jefferson Highway” Show, we celebrate autumn travel along the “Pines to Palms Highway”, stretching from Winnipeg, Canada to New Orleans, Louisiana. Featured guests share the unique charm,...

  22. Pots, Pans, and Protest: The Amazon Army of Kansas

    On this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Way Back When" History Podcast, we explore the powerful story of the Amazon Army March of 1921 in Southeast Kansas. Thousands of women — armed not with weapons, but with pots, pans, and unshakable courage — marched to support miners demanding fair working...

  23. Greenville, Texas: Arts, Culture & Heritage Along the Jefferson Highway

    Celebrate the end of American Adventures Month with this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Historic Jefferson Highway” Show, we travel to Greenville, Texas, a vibrant community located along the historic Jefferson Highway. Featured guests Stacy Foley (Tourism Manager) and Micah McBay (Community...

  24. The History & Legacy of Kelly’s Westport Inn in Kansas City

    This episode of Big Blend Radio was recorded onsite with Pat Kelly, co-owner of the legendary Kelly’s Westport Inn in Kansas City, Missouri. A must-visit destination for both locals and travelers, Kelly’s is not only a cornerstone of Kansas City’s nightlife and culture, but also a historic…

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  25. Bunkie, Louisiana: Jefferson Highway Community of 2025

    This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Show highlights the vibrant and welcoming community of Bunkie, Louisiana, which has been recognized as the Jefferson Highway Community of 2025. The conversation showcases Bunkie’s deep historical roots, growing tourism efforts, and…

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  26. 45th Annual Natchitoches-NSU Folk Festival - Crafting Louisiana

    This episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Historic Jefferson Highway” Show features Dr. Shane Rasmussen, Director of the Natchitoches-NSU Folk Festival and NSU’s Louisiana Folklife Center. Held in historic Natchitoches, Louisiana—a destination along the Jefferson Highway—the 45th Annual Natchitoches-NSU...

  27. Recap of the 2025 Jefferson Highway Conference in McAlester, Oklahoma

    This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Show features a lively recap of the 2025 Jefferson Highway Conference held in McAlester, Oklahoma. The event brought together historians, community leaders, and heritage travelers to celebrate the cultural and historical significance…

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  28. Dobson Museum and Home in Miami, Oklahoma

    In this episode of Big Blend Radio's JEFFERSON HIGHWAY Show, we chat with Jordan Boyd, Executive Director of the Dobson Museum and Home in Miami, Oklahoma — a must-visit destination located along both the historic Jefferson Highway and Route 66. Discover how the Dobson Museum serves as a vibrant...

  29. Discover DeSoto Parish in Northwest Louisiana

    Celebrate National Road Trip Day (May 23) with this special episode of Big Blend Radio’s Jefferson Highway Show. We’re hitting the road with Charlotte Knotek to explore the scenic and historic treasures of DeSoto Parish, located just south of Shreveport in northwest Louisiana. From the natural...

  30. Gearhead Curios & Petrol Motor Quart in Galena, Kansas

    Happy National Road Trip Day! 🎉 Join us for a special episode of Big Blend Radio’s Jefferson Highway Show, as we celebrate May 23rd with Aaron Perry and Cassandra Ringel, the passionate owners behind Gearhead Curios and the highly anticipated Petrol Motor Quart in Galena, Kansas. Situated on…

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  31. Boots Court Motel at the Crossroads of America

    Celebrate National Road Trip Day (May 23) with us on a special episode of Big Blend Radio’s Jefferson Highway Show! Our guest, Janna Conklin, provides an insightful overview of what to experience at the renowned and historic Boots Court Motel & Visitor Center, located in charming Carthage,...

  32. A Southern Minnesota Minne-Roadtrip Adventure

    Get ready to hit the open road in celebration of National Road Trip Day (May 23)! In this special episode of Big Blend Radio’s Jefferson Highway Show, we take you on a Southern Minnesota adventure along the historic Jefferson Highway, spotlighting the charming Minne-Roadtrip destinations of...

  33. Hi-Way Cafe and Western Motel - Classic Road Trip Destinations in Vinita, Oklahoma

    Get ready to hit the open road! In this special episode of Big Blend Radio's Jefferson Highway Show, we're gearing up for National Road Trip Day (May 23) with guest Beth Hilburn, co-owner of the retro-charming Hi-Way Cafe and Western Motel in Vinita, Oklahoma. Nestled on both the historic…

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  34. Miners Hall Museum in Franklin, Kansas

    On this episode Big Blend Radio’s “Historic Jefferson Highway” Show we journey to Franklin, Southeast Kansas, to spotlight the Miners Hall Museum, located right on the historic Jefferson Highway. Our featured guest is Phyllis Bitner, Chair of the Miners Hall Museum Foundation, who shares powerful...

  35. Jefferson Highway Conference in McAlester, Oklahoma

    This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Show focuses on the upcoming Annual Jefferson Highway Conference 2025 happening June 4-7 in McAlester, Oklahoma, with the Sociability Caravan running June 2-4. Plus, hear about the formation of the Jefferson Highway, as well as some…

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  36. Unique Lodgings and Historic Sites on the Jefferson Highway

    Celebrate National Retro Day with this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Show takes focuses on unique lodgings, historic sites and exciting projects in Kansas and Iowa. FEATURED GUESTS: - ROGER BELL: Co-Host & President of the Jefferson Highway Association. - AARON PERRY &...

  37. Roger Bell's Must-Visit Experiences on the Jefferson Highway

    This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Show features Roger Bell, President of the Jefferson Highway Association, who shares some of his favorite experiences on the Jefferson Highway. The Jefferson Highway Association originally founded the Jefferson Highway in 1915. This...

  38. The Jefferson Highway Travel Guide is Starting Production!

    This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Show focuses on the new digital Jefferson Highway Travel Guide being produced in partnership between Big Blend Magazines and the Jefferson Highway Association. Featured guests are Roger Bell - President of the Jefferson Highway...

  39. Military Vehicle Preservation Association’s Convoy on the Jefferson Highway

    This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Show focuses on the Military Vehicle Preservation Association's recent convoy on the historic Jefferson Highway. Held October 1-31, 2024, the convoy will traveled from Minnesota to Louisiana. Learn more: https://www.mvpa.org/convoys...

  40. What is Your Historic Jefferson Highway Experience?

    This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Show begs you to answer, "What is Your Historic Jefferson Highway Experience?" After all, so many people live in and travel through this historic corridor from Winnipeg, Canada to New Orleans, USA, but don't realize they are...

  41. Fall Fun on the Historic Jefferson Highway

    This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Show focuses on Fall Events and Activities including the October Military Vehicle Preservation Association's Convoy. FEATURED GUESTS: * Roger Bell - President of the Jefferson Highway Association * Allison Zacharias of Travel Manitoba...

  42. Get a Taste of the Historic Jefferson Highway

    It's all about Beer, Burgers, Meat Pies & More on this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Show! Featured Guests: * Roger Bell - President of the Jefferson Highway Association * Chase Miller - One Great City Brewing Co. - https://www.ogcbrewingco.com/ * Beth Hilburn - Hi-Way...

  43. MVPA Historic Convoy on the Jefferson Highway - Minnesota to Louisiana

    This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Show focuses on the Military Vehicle Preservation Association's epic upcoming convoy on the Jefferson Highway. Held October 1-31, 2024, the convoy will run from Minnesota to Louisiana. Learn more: https://www.mvpa.org/convoys Featured...

  44. Outdoor Adventures on the Historic Jefferson Highway

    Celebrate Great Outdoors Month and National Rivers Month with this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Show that focuses on Itasca State Park in Minnesota and the Empress Boat Club in Iowa Falls. FEATURED GUESTS: - ROGER BELL, President of the Jefferson Highway Association....

  45. Jefferson Highway News - It's Happening in Oklahoma!

    Celebrate Small Business Month (May) and National Travel & Tourism Week (May 19-25, 2024) with this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Show that focuses on the Jefferson Highway Association's efforts in Oklahoma which includes new road signage, the first state chapter, and...

  46. Explore the Historic Jefferson Highway in Louisiana

    While the 11th Annual Jefferson Highway Conference is happening in Alexandria, Louisiana (April 24-27, 2024), this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Jefferson Highway" Show focuses on the experiences you can have in Louisiana on the Jefferson Highway Trail and just a few miles beyond. The Jefferson...

  47. 11th Annual Jefferson Highway Association Conference and Socialbility Run in Louisiana

    This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Jefferson Highway" Show focuses on the upcoming Jefferson Highway Conference held in Alexandria, Louisiana from April 24-27, 2024. Also hear about the Sociability Run in Louisiana that will be held pre-conference from April 22-24, 2024. FEATURED GUESTS: - ROGER...

  48. Historic Music and Songs of the Jefferson Highway Era

    This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Jefferson Highway" Show focuses on the historic music and songs of the Jefferson Highway Era. The Jefferson Highway Association originally founded the Jefferson Highway in 1915. This international highway is also known as "The Pines to the Palms Highway," that...

  49. Jefferson Highway History in Paola, Kansas

    This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Jefferson Highway" Show focuses on the history of the highway in Paola, Kansas. FEATURED GUESTS: - ROGER BELL - President of the Jefferson Highway Association which originally founded the Jefferson Highway in 1915. This international highway is also known as…

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  50. Historic Jefferson Highway Happenings in 2024

    This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Jefferson Highway" Show focuses on the progress of the Jefferson Highway Association's programs and initiatives, including the upcoming Annual Jefferson Highway Conference and Sociability Run. This international conference will be held in Alexandria, Louisiana...

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Broadcasting every 4th Thursday, this Big Blend Radio podcast focuses on the historic Jefferson Highway, an international highway that runs from Winnipeg, Canada down through Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas, to New Orleans, Louisiana. There are some parts of Arkansas that were also part of the historic route. It was created by the Jefferson Highway Association, which was originally founded in 1915. The Jefferson Highway, also known as “The Pines to the Palms Highway,” is a historic vacation route that is going through a tourism rebirth and it’s exciting for travelers and destinations alike!

HOSTED BY

Big Blend Radio Network

Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does Historic Jefferson Highway have?

Historic Jefferson Highway currently has 72 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is Historic Jefferson Highway about?

Broadcasting every 4th Thursday, this Big Blend Radio podcast focuses on the historic Jefferson Highway, an international highway that runs from Winnipeg, Canada down through Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas, to New Orleans, Louisiana. There are some parts of Arkansas that...

How often does Historic Jefferson Highway release new episodes?

Historic Jefferson Highway has 72 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.

Where can I listen to Historic Jefferson Highway?

You can listen to Historic Jefferson Highway on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts Historic Jefferson Highway?

Historic Jefferson Highway is created and hosted by Big Blend Radio Network.
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