Oklahoma Couple Recreates Iconic Route 66 Honeymoon in a Century-Old Hupmobile

Twenty-five years after their memorable honeymoon drive from Chicago to Santa Monica, an Oklahoma couple is once again embarking on the legendary Route 66. Ed and Jackie Fogle from Tulsa are recreating their quarter-century-old journey, this time in a unique 1926 Hupmobile, adding a profound layer of classic automotive history to their personal milestone. This endeavor not only celebrates their 25th wedding anniversary but also coincides with the ongoing centennial celebrations of the historic Mother Road itself.

A Sentimental Journey Down the Mother Road

The Fogles' original honeymoon in 2001 saw them traversing the entirety of Route 66 in a 1959 Cadillac convertible, with the top perpetually down, as Ed fondly recalls. Now, for their silver anniversary, the couple has chosen a far more vintage and challenging companion: a 1926 Hupmobile. This choice is particularly poignant as the Hupmobile, often referred to as an 'orphan car' due to the brand's discontinuation, itself turns 100 years old this year, mirroring Route 66's own centennial.

Their journey commenced from the symbolic start of Route 66 at Navy Pier in Chicago, a location steeped in the route's rich American motoring heritage. The decision to undertake such an ambitious trip in a century-old vehicle highlights a deep appreciation for automotive history and the adventurous spirit that Route 66 embodies. This road, officially established in 1926, became a lifeline for westward migration, a symbol of freedom, and a backdrop for countless personal stories, much like the Fogles' own. The centennial of Route 66, which is being celebrated across various states it traverses, provides an ideal context for such a nostalgic and challenging drive.

Navigating Modern Roads with Vintage Charm

Driving a vehicle from 1926 presents a distinct set of challenges, especially on modern roadways dominated by significantly heavier and faster vehicles. The Hupmobile, while a testament to early 20th-century engineering, operates without many of the conveniences and safety features modern drivers take for granted. Ed Fogle candidly admitted that the Hupmobile's speedometer, odometer, and even the fuel gauge are currently non-functional, adding an element of raw, unassisted navigation to their adventure. This requires an intimate understanding of the vehicle and a keen sense of observation, a stark contrast to the advanced driver-assistance systems found in contemporary cars.

The journey in such an antique machine serves as a vivid reminder of the evolution of automotive travel and the enduring appeal of mechanical simplicity. While modern vehicles are designed for efficiency, speed, and comfort, the Hupmobile offers a tactile and visceral connection to the road, a quality often sought by classic car enthusiasts. The commitment to using a vehicle that requires constant attention and manual operation underscores the Fogles' dedication to an authentic vintage motoring experience. Their trip is a living exhibit of how classic cars, despite their age, can still be central to new memories and stories, bridging automotive eras in a tangible way. It's a powerful statement on the joy of classic car ownership, proving that the romance of the open road, especially Route 66, remains timeless, irrespective of the vehicle's age or technological advancements.

A Tribute to Enduring Love and Automotive Heritage

The Fogles' endeavor is more than just a road trip; it's a personal tribute intertwined with significant historical anniversaries. Their 25 years of marriage are celebrated on a road that has witnessed a century of American life unfold. The 1926 Hupmobile, an 'orphan' in the automotive world, finds new life and purpose in this commemorative journey, shining a spotlight on brands that, while no longer produced, contributed significantly to early motoring. Their story resonates with classic car aficionados worldwide who appreciate the preservation and active enjoyment of automotive heritage. It highlights that the value of these vehicles extends beyond monetary figures, encompassing sentiment, history, and the unique experiences they enable. As they traverse the miles, Ed and Jackie Fogle are not just recreating a trip; they are writing a new chapter in their love story and adding a vibrant, human-interest footnote to the grand narrative of Route 66 and classic car culture.