La Verne : Route 66 Fans Organize

Just the mention of Route 66 fills Vivian Davies with nostalgia.

From 1939 to 1944, Davies said, she drove the highway six times. “I remember driving the route and stopping by the small gas stations and the mom-and-pop cafes,” the 72-year-old Illinois native said. “The home cooking was the best I ever had.”

Those vivid memories prompted Davies, of La Verne, to ask four friends, all San Gabriel Valley residents, to help her establish the California Historic Route 66 Assn. The nonprofit organization was formed in July.

Beginning near Lake Michigan in Illinois, Route 66 passes through eight states, including California. Davies said she plans to drive on part of Route 66 again in January when she visits her 42-year-old son in Florida.

Those interested in the organization can write 2127-A Foothill Blvd., Suite 66, La Verne 91750 or call (714) 593-4046.