Santa Rosa: History along Route 66

Santa Rosa is located on the Pecos River. Historic Route 66, the Park Lake Historic District, and the Pecos Theatre reflect different aspects of the town’s history. Blue Hole and Park Lake offer water-related activities. When planning your stay, you can therefore choose between transportation and local history, and diving and recreational activities.

Route 66 and historic traces

In 1930, historic Route 66 ran through Santa Rosa. Old signs and buildings from the era of motorized travel have been preserved along its historic section. These details offer two different perspectives on the town’s history: the year places the route’s passage in time, while the preserved traces give the history of road travel a visible form.

The Pecos Theatre is a strikingly restored movie theater from the 1940s and conveys the nostalgic charm of Route 66. These are two different historical references: the route’s passage is dated to 1930, while the theater dates from the 1940s. Santa Rosa’s historic district also features picturesque stone buildings. Those interested in historic architecture can consider them as a point of interest in their own right, alongside the history of Route 66.

Park Lake and the town’s history

The Park Lake Historic District was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1996. During the Great Depression, Park Lake was the site of a Federal Relief Emergency Administration project. Between 1934 and 1940, the Works Progress Administration (WPA) employed local men to build a 25-acre municipal park around the lake. The two date ranges mark different events: 1996 is when the district was added to the Register, while 1934 to 1940 is when the WPA employed workers to build the park.

Santa Rosa’s first church was a chapel. This religious landmark adds another aspect of the town’s history alongside its transportation, park, and architectural history.

Water activities

Open Water, Advanced Open Water, Rescue, Dive Master, and Diving Instructor Training courses are held at Blue Hole. The training covers several named levels, from Open Water and Advanced Open Water through Rescue to Dive Master and Diving Instructor Training. Dates and equipment may change; if a particular level is important to your plans, check the details in advance.

Pedal boats and a water slide are available at Park Lake. These activities operate seasonally and may change. Check before your visit to see whether they are available during your travel dates. The practical planning considerations differ: dates and equipment may vary at Blue Hole, while the season matters for activities at Park Lake.

For the broader travel overview: Guadalupe County.