Route 66 Forever Stamp 2026
The U.S. Postal Service celebrates the 100th anniversary of Route 66 with a new series of stamps honoring one of America's most recognizable highways and the spirit of exploration, independence, and possibility that it represents. Since its establishment on November 11, 1926, Route 66 has carried generations of travelers across nearly 2,400 miles, originally connecting Chicago and Los Angeles while becoming a lasting symbol of the American journey.
The creation of the stamp series presented a significant challenge because of the enormous history and geography associated with the famous highway. Art director Greg Breeding initially described the project as a daunting undertaking, but the process became more focused after researchers discovered photographer David Schwartz, whose more than two decades of documenting Route 66 made him an ideal visual guide for the project. Schwartz provided photographs for the stamps while also sharing his extensive knowledge of the road's history, communities, and stories.
Breeding was especially drawn to Schwartz's photographic style, describing it as having an editorial quality rather than a polished commercial appearance. The images capture the character of Route 66 with a documentary feel, reflecting the people, landscapes, and changing communities that define the highway's identity.
Schwartz's own connection to Route 66 began in 1988 after hearing Depeche Mode's version of the classic song (Get Your Kicks on) Route 66.Inspired by the sense of adventure suggested by the music, he imagined the experiences waiting along the historic route. He finally made his first journey in 2004 and has since traveled the highway more than 40 additional times.
Although Schwartz has completed the full trip from Chicago to Los Angeles in a single journey once, he believes the most meaningful way to experience Route 66 is by exploring smaller sections. Slowing down allows travelers to better appreciate the towns, landscapes, and personal stories found along the way.
When photographing the highway, Schwartz focuses on authentic moments that reveal a sense of place. He looks for images that communicate emotion, history, and atmosphere, paying particular attention to the dramatic effects of natural light during sunrise and sunset. He is especially interested in how locations evolve over time what remains, what has disappeared, and what has been restored.
For Schwartz, Route 66 represents far more than a historic roadway. It serves as a connection between generations, linking together American history, culture, migration, and community. Traveling along the route today offers a direct connection to the stories of the people who built towns, pursued opportunities, and shaped the identity of the nation.
Having his photography featured on U.S. Postal Service stamps represents a lifelong dream for Schwartz. He hopes the images will encourage others to experience the road themselves and discover the same sense of curiosity and inspiration that first drew him to Route 66.
The Route 66 stamps celebrate not only a historic highway but also the enduring desire to explore, discover, and create memories along the open road.
