I remember when they filmed in Memphis. It was a big deal all across the Delta. We all couldn’t wait for the episode to air. And when it did the opening scene was the Corvette driving across the Mississippi River Bridge. We were so proud to see something on TV that we recognized. You have to realize that it didn’t take a lot to get us poor Delta people excited.
As for the real Rt 66. If you’ve never driven it and ever get a chance to do so, do it. There are a few of the original parts of the road remaining. But get off I-40 and take the business routes through the towns. The old motels with “Air Conditioned Inside” signs really bring back memories. And there are still a lot of old signs. It’s a step back in time.
There are stretches out west (especially Arizona) where the old road is very well maintained. And as a further nostalgic treat, the state erected old Burma Shave signs along the road. The road is not maintained so well in California. The wife and I had a real jarring trip on a section from Barstow to near the Arizona border.
Passing through Hernando, MS, on several occasions, I’ve asked a few people if they remember the filming of the episode there. It was a fascinating episode, guest-starring Barry Sullivan.
I had a good friend (now deceased) who was a background extra in an episode that took place in Austin/Kerrville. He was a UT college student at the time. Mentioned how Martin Milner came out, met with people, and was extremely friendly to everyone.
I’ve traveled most of Route 66, at least the parts that still exist, and weren’t eradicated, from St. Louis to California.