America’s Historic Highway Pole Markers

America's historic highway pole markers and signs, from a book of auto trails published in 1921.  We also have cool shirts with individual markers.

→ All proceeds go to the non-profit organization, The Pursuit of History.  More on that below.

Before the interstate highway system, there were "auto trails," often marked by painting colored stripes on the telephone or electrical poles along the road. As regions realized the economic benefit of auto travelers, they added catchy names and promoted these routes to travelers. Our friends at the American Business History Center, who provided this image, have an excellent article on the history of auto trails.

This is the first time we have offered this, and it's available exclusively from The Pursuit of History.  See below for more information on this non-profit organization, which will receive all proceeds from the sale of this print.

Size: 11" x 14"

Paper weight: Printed on 10pt. gloss cardstock, which is a nice weight and helps make this very affordable.

Available unframed only. Fits standard frames available through local stores and online. 

See all the special America’s Summer Roadtrip designs.

Visit 12 historic sites on America's Summer Roadtrip

On August 1, 2020 we did live broadcasts from 12 historic sites across the country, and we recorded all the tours. Read more and view the videos at AmericasSummerRoadtrip.org.

The Pursuit of History is the non-profit organization that engages adults in conversation about history and connects them with historic sites in their communities and across the country through unique annual events, including History Camp, and through video and other online content.

 Our thanks to Gary Hoover, Founder and Executive Director of the American Business History Center for making this image available.