Seligman, Arizona, is a small, historic town located in the northern part of the state. It is situated along the iconic Route 66 and is often celebrated as a quintessential stop along the "Mother Road." Founded in the late 19th century, the town played a significant role as a railroad town and a hub for travelers on Route 66. Today, it is known for its nostalgic, mid-20th-century Americana charm, attracting tourists with its retro diners, quirky shops, and vibrant murals. The town has embraced its Route 66 heritage, making it a popular destination for those looking to experience a slice of classic Americana.
Here are the most interesting facts about this little town:
Seligman is famously known as the "Birthplace of Historic Route 66," due to efforts by local residents to preserve the highway's legacy. A key figure in Seligman's preservation of Route 66 is Angel Delgadillo, is a barber and founder of the Historic Route 66 Association of Arizona. The town has a small population, with around 450 residents, making it a tight-knit community and is located in Yavapai County in northern Arizona, about 80 miles west of Flagstaff. It's a popular stop for Route 66 enthusiasts and tourists traveling between Grand Canyon National Park and Las Vegas. Seligman was originally established as a railroad town by the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railway in the 1880s.
The town was named after Jesse Seligman, a financier and one of the founders of the J. & W. Seligman & Co. banking house.