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 Association, along with host and producer Lisa D. Smith. Their featured guest is Jeremy Morris, President of the Route 66 Association of Missouri and owner of The Parsonage at Red Oak II.

From historic sites and roadside attractions to outlaws, musicians, and local legends, this engaging conversation highlights the unique stories that define travel along these legendary routes. Learn how small businesses, community pride, and preservation efforts keep the spirit of Americana alive, while also learning about upcoming centennial celebrations and special events in places like Joplin, Missouri.

You will also hear about the Crossroads of America Centennial Conference taking place September 19–22, 2026, in Joplin, Missouri, and why this event is a must for history enthusiasts, road trippers, and anyone passionate about preserving and exploring America’s historic highways.

Whether you're drawn to the scenic beauty of the Ozarks, intrigued by haunted highways and historic buildings, or inspired by the people you meet along the way, this episode celebrates the timeless experience of road tripping through America’s heartland.

Learn more about Route 66 in Missouri: https://www.missouri66.org/

The Jefferson Highway Association originally founded the Jefferson Highway in 1915. This international highway—also known as “The Pines to the Palms Highway”—runs from Winnipeg, Canada to New Orleans, Louisiana. Learn more at https://jeffersonhighway.org/

Plan your journey with the Jefferson Highway Travel Guide: https://www.jeffersonhighwaytravelguide.com/

Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Podcast airs every 4th Thursday. Follow the show at https://jefferson-highway.podbean.com/

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 Centennial Conference in Joplin, Missouri.

As always, the show features Roger Bell, Co-Host and President of the Jefferson Highway Association, along with host and producer Lisa D. Smith.

From early 20th-century road development to modern-day road trip adventures, this conversation explores how these iconic highways helped shape American travel, culture, and tourism. Roger highlights Joplin’s role as a historic crossroads, discusses the evolution of highway systems, and shares why every community along these routes has a unique story to tell.

Hear about the Crossroads of America Centennial Conference taking place September 19–22, 2026, in Joplin, Missouri, and why this event is a must for history enthusiasts, road trippers, and anyone passionate about preserving America’s historic highways.

The Jefferson Highway Association originally founded the Jefferson Highway in 1915. This international highway—also known as “The Pines to the Palms Highway”—runs from Winnipeg, Canada to New Orleans, Louisiana. Learn more at https://jeffersonhighway.org/

Plan your journey with the Jefferson Highway Travel Guide website: https://www.jeffersonhighwaytravelguide.com/

The Big Blend Radio "Historic Jefferson Highway" Podcast airs every 4th Thursday (except on holidays). Follow the show at https://jefferson-highway.podbean.com

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 some of our favorite experiences like The Ashen Rose Bar & Grill, Peddler's Pizza, Prairie Coffee Co., and PhatCakes, we take you to Glenda’s Kitchen for authentic comfort food that feels like home. Glenda talks about her legendary chicken fried steak and 25 years of community service!

Then we head downtown to Landon Winery, where tasting room manager Patrick Harrison walks us through their award-winning Texas wines in their historic building.

🔗 RESOURCE & TRAVEL PLANNING LINKS: * Greenville Tourism: http://travelgrenvilletx.com/ * Texas Travel Directory: https://www.jeffersonhighwaytravelguide.com/travel-directory/texas * Jefferson Highway Association: https://jeffersonhighway.org/ * Jefferson Highway Dispatch Updates: https://jeffersonhighwaydispatch.substack.com/ * Glenda’s Cafe: https://www.facebook.com/GlendasCafe/ * Landon Winery: https://www.landonwinery.com/ * Peddler’s Pizza: https://www.peddlerspizza.com/ * The Ashen Rose: https://www.facebook.com/theashenrosepub/ * Prairie Coffee Co.: https://prairiecoffeeco.com/ * PhatCakes: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093269536686 * The Texan Theater: https://www.facebook.com/TexanTheater/ * Comfort Suites Greenville: https://www.choicehotels.com/texas/greenville/comfort-suites-hotels/txb47

DON’T MISS THE OTHER 3 EPISODES: * Part One (History): https://jeffersonhighwaydispatch.substack.com/p/greenville-texas-part-one * Part 2 (Arts): https://jeffersonhighwaydispatch.substack.com/p/greenville-texas-part-two * Part 3 (Style & Stage): https://jeffersonhighwaydispatch.substack.com/p/greenville-texas-part-three