Each year at the International Route 66 Festival awards banquet, “Route 66: The Mother Road” author Michael Wallis makes a “State of the Road” speech.
Save for a time when it was streamed live, I’m not aware anyone has ever posted video of Wallis’ Route 66 speeches on the Internet. Wallis owns a great baritone voice, and his storytelling often turns poignant or spellbinding. So the fact one his of speeches has never made it to the Web for posterity remains a puzzle.
This year at Amarillo, I hadn’t planned to videotape Wallis’ speech. But, upon seeing the banquet’s setup and hearing the good sound system, I decided to do it. It wound up being one of Wallis’ best speeches.
The speech is about 34 minutes, and comes in three parts, in order:
Wallis alluded to being glad the Blue Swallow Motel in Tucumcari, N.M., soon would get new owners. My somewhat more-nuanced response can be read here.
At the Clinton Festival in 2007, I videotaped Michael’s speech but did not post the video, just the audio on the Route 66 Chamber’s website, and it’s still there at (www.visit66.com). As soon as I get a chance, I will track the video down and post it for all to enjoy, along with your Amarillo footage. Thanks for doing this. Ron Hart
Thanks for doing this. It’s lets those of us who weren’t there feel a part of it. Also, thanks to everyone who posted photos and commentary.