Historic Highway 99 Association of California
Dedicated to the preservation of California's Main Street – former US Highway 99
Michael Ballard US 99 and Newhall Pass – Part 1 by Michael F Ballard The first paths through Newhall Pass were Native American foot trails. They went from Los Angeles to the Mojave Desert and the San Joaquin Valley. These trails were used for trade between the desert and the Los Angeles Basin. As Los Angeles grew … Read more
A car passed by the St. Francis Dam on the way to Powerhouse 1 on March 12, 1928. The driver saw a torch light at the base of the dam, and figured the dam keeper, Tony Harnischfeger was down at the base of the dam. A little while later, a motorcycle passed by the St. … Read more
We have some great news! After speaking with officials with the City of Madera, they have agreed to post our Historic Route signs along Gateway Drive. This is the first new signage we will be placing, as Calexico was replacing existing signage. Getting approval in Madera is a significant accomplishment for us and I look … Read more
There is currently a fire, #RouteFire, burning on the Ridge Route near Templin Highway. I-5 is closed both directions and the Old Ridge Route may be in danger. For information, follow the Twitter feed for the Ridge Route Preservation Organization – @ridgeroute99.
The link in the newsletter for the presentation was incorrect and has been corrected. Please use this new link to sign up. Join Michael F Ballard and the Historic Highway 99 Association of California for a presentation on the history of US 99 and the Newhall Pass on September 14, 2021 at 6pm via Zoom. … Read more