History of Route 1

We have all traveled down or up route 1, it seems like a common thing, and we do not take the time to appreciate its historical value. In this blog post, I hope to take some time to change the pace with a serious post, and maybe even educate you a bit. Here is the History of Route 1.

Route 1 was established very early on in the spectrum of US History. Many hear the term Manifest Destiny, and immediately think moving west to what would someday be California. In truth, the Manifest Destiny has earlier roots. The first Americans established themselves in MA, and immediately realized it had terrible beach weather, the real manifest destiny has to do with early Americans wanting to enjoy spring break.

As everyone knows today, Samuel Adams invented beer.

The people had beer, and now wanted a warm, sandy place, where women could wear less clothes, to enjoy this fantastic beverage. Foolishly, Adams and his cavalry they went North, but soon figured out the North = Colder. He returned and asked his friend Paul Revere for help.

Paul Revere in turn looked to his friend the Indians, Native Americans, people who were here first, other white Americans to help them travel, and started heading south.

As they headed south, the paved their road so that the travel back would be easier. Hey made it all the way to Florida. This tradition of going to Florida for Spring Break continues today, but its true origins have long since been forgotten. It is that road which is called Route 1. It was given the number 1 because it is historically the first road ever in the USA. So there you have it….

Now some other interesting facts about Route 1…. It was on route 1 that the first dinosaur excavation took place. It was on the Saugus line, and is commemorated until this day. Many people drive by it and don’t realize that the Orange Dinosaur on Route 1 in Saugus, is the exact location in which the first dinosaur bones were found.

Also the Tobin Bridge is the historical spot or where an actual troll would collect tolls. Due to inflation the costs have change. It stands about $3 today, but as everyone knows “You have to pay the troll toll, if you wanna get in the boyshole” Yep the exchange rate is 1 Boy soul = $3. The fact that prices have risen for the toll is only to keep up with the exchange rate.

Well… I hope you’ve all learned something here today!