Plans are underway in Wellston, Oklahoma, for a new monument dedicated to the iconic humorist and actor, Will Rogers. The Oklahoma Route 66 Association is spearheading this initiative, aiming to install the granite marker along the historic Route 66 by June 18, 2026, coinciding with the centennial celebrations of the famed highway.
To support the project, the association has launched a fundraising campaign, seeking contributions to cover the costs of fabrication, site preparation, and installation. A significant boost has come from the National Trust for Historic Preservation, which awarded a grant of $10,000 to assist with the monument. This grant is part of a larger allocation of approximately $410,000 intended for preservation projects along Route 66.
Fundraising Efforts Underway
The Oklahoma Route 66 Association is calling on local residents and businesses to contribute to the monument’s funding. From now until March 31, donors who contribute $750 or more will have the opportunity to have their name or business name etched onto the back of the monument. This initiative not only helps finance the project but also allows donors to leave a lasting legacy along one of America’s most famous roadways.
Contributions are being processed through the association’s website, where potential donors can find more details about the recognition gifts. Organizers encourage anyone with questions about the inscription process or fundraising to reach out directly to the association.
Connecting to the Route 66 Centennial
The unveiling of the Will Rogers monument is strategically timed to align with the national Route 66 centennial events. The centennial caravan is scheduled to pass through Oklahoma between June 5 and June 24, 2026, providing an excellent opportunity for Wellston to attract visitors and celebrate its rich connection to the Mother Road.
Wellston’s historical significance as part of Route 66 is a key factor in the town’s revitalization efforts. Local leaders have been actively pursuing projects aimed at enhancing the town’s appeal to tourists. The Will Rogers monument is a central piece of this initiative, supported by a state Route 66 revitalization grant that aims to increase visitor traffic to the area.
While the National Trust’s grant provides vital initial funding, the remaining costs for carving the granite marker, shipping it, and preparing the installation site will need to be covered through community fundraising efforts. The Oklahoma Route 66 Association is focused on fostering local engagement and support, ensuring that the monument becomes a symbol of community pride.
Supporters interested in participating in this commemorative project can make tax-deductible donations through the association. This initiative not only honors a beloved American figure but also aims to strengthen the local economy by promoting tourism along Route 66.
