The famous Route 66 is not just a road. It is a symbol of adventure, freedom, and American history. Now, in Oklahoma City, a group of students is helping to bring back a special piece of that history. Automotive students at Francis Tuttle Technology Center are working hard to restore a historic truck that once belonged to famous Route 66 artist Bob Waldmire. This project is not just about repairing a vehicle. It is about protecting a story that connects art, travel, and culture.
Students Restore a Historic Route 66 Truck
Students from the Automotive Service Technology and Automotive Collision and Repair Technology programs at Francis Tuttle have started restoring a special box truck. This truck once belonged to Route 66 artist Bob Waldmire.
In 2007, Waldmire painted a beautiful Route 66 mural on the driver’s side of the truck. His artwork showed his deep love for nature, history, and the open road. Over time, the truck became old and worn out. It later came into the care of the Oklahoma Route 66 Association, which wanted to protect this important piece of history.
Now, these young students are using their skills to repair and refresh the truck. Their goal is simple — bring it back as close as possible to its original look.
Who Was Bob Waldmire?
Bob Waldmire was a well-known artist who became famous for his colourful drawings of Route 66. He loved traveling and often lived inside his vehicles while exploring the historic highway. His artwork was inspired by nature, old towns, and American road culture.
Interestingly, the character Fillmore from the movie Cars was inspired by Waldmire. Fillmore, the friendly hippie van in the movie, shares a similar personality and style to the artist himself.
Because of his strong connection to Route 66, Waldmire’s truck is more than just a vehicle. It is a moving piece of art and history.
Francis Tuttle Students Take on the Challenge
Francis Tuttle Technology Center is known for giving students practical, hands-on training. When the opportunity came to restore Waldmire’s truck, it was the perfect learning project.
Auto Collision Instructor Clint Drabek shared that the team is working carefully and quickly. Their aim is to make the truck look as good as it once did. Students are repairing damaged parts, fixing the body, and protecting the mural artwork.
This project gives students real-world experience. Instead of just learning from books, they are working on an actual historic vehicle. It helps them:
- Learn advanced repair techniques
- Understand paint preservation
- Work as a professional team
- Gain confidence in handling important projects
Getting Ready for Route 66 Centennial Celebrations
Oklahoma Route 66 Association hopes to showcase the restored truck during the upcoming Route 66 Centennial celebrations. The famous highway will complete 100 years soon, and special events are planned across different states.
The students and instructors want the truck ready in time for these celebrations. Restoring it is not just about fixing metal and paint. It is about honouring Route 66’s rich history and keeping its stories alive for the next generation.
Here is a quick overview of the project:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Oklahoma City |
| Institution | Francis Tuttle Technology Center |
| Original Owner | Bob Waldmire |
| Artwork Year | 2007 |
| Current Owner | Oklahoma Route 66 Association |
| Goal | Restore truck for Route 66 Centennial |
Why This Project Matters
Route 66 is one of the most famous highways in the United States. It connects people, memories, and cultures. By restoring this truck, students are helping protect a unique symbol of that journey.
Projects like this show how education and history can come together. Young students are not only learning technical skills but also understanding the importance of preserving cultural heritage.
