Part of Our Route 66 Everytown Collection – Topock Edition
Wear a tribute to one of Route 66's greatest engineering feats with this ultra-soft unisex jersey tee, expertly crafted from 100% Airlume combed and ring-spun cotton. Featuring the slogan "Route 66 + Colorado River = Love," this tee celebrates Topock, Arizona: the historic point where the Mother Road bravely crossed the mighty Colorado River.
It's the perfect shirt for Route 66 adventurers, Colorado River enthusiasts, and collectors of our exclusive Route 66 Everytown Collection, honoring Topock's legacy as a vital link on America's Main Street.
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About Topock, Arizona: A Historic Crossing on the Mother Road
Topock stands as the historic gateway for westbound travelers on Historic Route 66 before they cross the mighty Colorado River into California. The town's name, derived from the Mojave word for "bridge" or "to drive piles," encapsulates its identity as a critical crossing point.
Before the Mother Road arrived, early transcontinental motorists on the National Old Trails Highway faced a challenging river passage. A 1914 flood destroyed the ferry, forcing vehicles to precariously drive across temporary planks laid over the ties of the Santa Fe Railroad’s 1890 Red Rock Bridge. This precarious fix highlighted the urgent need for a dedicated highway span.
This need was met by the magnificent Old Trails Bridge (also known as the Trails Arch Bridge). Completed in 1916 as a collaborative effort between Arizona, California, and the federal government, this 800-foot-long steel arch bridge was an engineering marvel and briefly the longest of its kind in America. It was officially incorporated into the alignment of U.S. Route 66 in 1926, and its striking design and critical function cemented Topock's place in Route 66 history.
The Old Trails Bridge carried Mother Road traffic until 1947, when heavier loads necessitated a switch to the reinforced Red Rock Bridge (the former railroad bridge). The Old Trails Bridge's road deck was removed a year later, but its iconic steel arch remains as a striking river landmark. Today, it serves a utilitarian role carrying a natural gas pipeline. The bridge's historic significance is immortalized in popular culture, famously appearing in the opening credits of the classic 1969 film Easy Rider (and the 1940 film The Grapes of Wrath).
Today, Topock and the adjacent community of Golden Shores, offer a tranquil blend of Route 66 nostalgia and outdoor adventure. Visitors can explore the natural beauty of the Topock Gorge and the Colorado River, enjoying boating, fishing, and kayaking. The retro charm and riverside setting provide a perfect stop to reflect on the final Arizona stretch of the Mother Road, celebrating the ingenuity that connected a nation.
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
Care Instructions:
- Machine wash: cold (max 90°F / 30°C)
- Tumble dry: low heat
- Non-chlorine bleach as needed
- Iron or steam: medium heat
- Do not dry clean
