Retro Route 66 Unisex Jersey Tee | Allentown, AZ: Formerly Allantown

Part of Our Route 66 Everytown Collection – Allentown Edition

Crafted from ultra-soft 100% Airlume combed and ring-spun cotton, this unisex jersey tee blends timeless comfort with one of the Mother Road's most curious bits of trivia. Featuring the intriguing slogan "Formerly Allantown," it celebrates Allentown, Arizona: a small but historically layered stop along Route 66 with a name change that still sparks local lore.

Perfect for wanderers, history buffs or collectors of our exclusive Route 66 Everytown Collection, this tee honors Allentown's obscure yet fascinating chapter in highway history.

Celebrate Allentown, a tiny Route 66 community in Apache County, once known as Allantown, set against the sweeping beauty of the Navajo Nation. With its mix of trading posts, regional history, and a story worth telling, Allentown stands out as a quiet but memorable locale on the Mother Road.

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About Allentown, Arizona: A Name, a Nation and the Mother Road

Allentown sits along the historic 1926-1985 stretch of Route 66 in Apache County, just off I-40 and surrounded by the sweeping desert skies of the Navajo Nation. About 10 miles west of the Arizona and New Mexico border, this quiet community blends history, culture, and a dash of mystery: perfect for travelers exploring the authentic side of Route 66.

Local legend says Allentown was originally spelled "Allantown," possibly named for Allan Johnson, a staff member of the Atlantic and Pacific Railroad. Over time, the name evolved into "Allentown," a small linguistic twist that still sparks curiosity among history buffs and Route 66 travelers alike.

During the heyday of Route 66, Allentown offered essential roadside services to motorists and nearby Navajo families. Gas stations, trading posts, and cafés dotted the highway, providing a vital lifeline to travelers crossing northeastern Arizona. One of the most beloved stops was Stafford’s Café, a local favorite until its demolition in the 1990s. The café’s ruins can still be visited today.

Although many of Allentown’s original businesses have disappeared, a few historic trading posts continue to thrive. Chee's Indian Store (located at 2 Allentown Rd.) and Ortega’s Indian City Arts both remain must-see stops along Allentown Road. Visitors can browse authentic Navajo jewelry, handwoven rugs, and traditional pottery, supporting local artisans who keep these crafts alive.

Just down the highway, travelers will find the Painted Cliffs, a striking display of color and geology, while a short drive leads to Window Rock, the capital of the Navajo Nation. Allentown also takes part in Route 66 heritage events, and its collaboration with the Navajo Nation Museum ensures its unique story remains part of the Mother Road’s living legacy.

For those committed to exploring the entire Route 66 experience, Allentown is a rewarding stop. It’s one of those overlooked desert communities where the old highway’s character still lingers. A place where you can feel the heartbeat of the Mother Road through quiet landscapes, cultural richness and untold stories.

A visit to Allentown isn’t a detour: it’s a chance to connect with the authentic, lesser-known spirit of Route 66.

Product Features:

100% Airlume combed and ring-spun cotton for premium softness
Side seams for added structure and durability
Tear-away label for comfort
Classic crew neckline with a flattering unisex fit - true-to-size for all day comfort (see size chart for details)
Fulfilled in the USA