By Cris Alarcon, March 16, 2025 PLACERVILLE, CA —
Long before Interstate 80, the Lincoln Highway paved the way for coast-to-coast automobile travel. Established in 1913, this pioneering road stretched from Times Square in New York City to Lincoln Park in San Francisco, offering motorists a cross-country route long before the modern freeway system. In El Dorado County, remnants of this historic highway remain, preserving a tangible link to America’s early automotive adventures.
A Route Through Time
The Lincoln Highway followed older wagon roads, including sections of the Pony Express Trail and the Overland Emigrant Trail. In El Dorado County, the highway ran through Placerville, Camino, and Echo Summit, leading travelers through the rugged Sierra Nevada mountains.
Today, portions of the original Lincoln Highway can still be driven, including:
- Pioneer Trail (Placerville to Echo Summit): Originally part of Johnson’s Cutoff, this stretch maintains visible remnants of the early roadway.
- U.S. 50 Through Placerville: While modernized, parts of this route still follow the original highway alignment.
- Old Meyers Grade: A now-closed but historically significant portion near Echo Summit, once a major challenge for early motorists.
The Cars That Paved the Way
In its early years, the Lincoln Highway saw a variety of automobiles, including:
- Ford Model T (1908–1927): The most common car of the era, affordable and rugged enough for rough roads.
- Chevrolet Series 490 (1915–1922): A competitor to the Model T, offering a slightly more refined ride.
- Dodge Brothers Touring Car (1914–1930): Known for its durability, frequently seen on cross-country journeys.
Keeping the Legacy Alive: Local Car Clubs
Several regional car clubs honor the legacy of early motoring and frequently drive their restored classics on historic routes:
- Hangtown A’s (Placerville): Dedicated to Ford Model A enthusiasts, regularly hosting tours along historic roads.
- Capitol A’s (Sacramento): Another Model A club preserving the history of 1928–1931 Fords.
- Mother Lode Model T Club (Auburn): Focused on keeping Ford Model T’s roadworthy and active in events.
- Local Chevrolet Clubs: Various groups celebrating classic Chevys, often appearing at El Dorado County car shows.
A Road Worth Remembering
The Lincoln Highway not only transformed travel but also shaped the development of small towns across El Dorado County. Though much of the original route has been absorbed by modern highways, its legacy lives on through historic markers, drivable segments, and dedicated car enthusiasts.
For those looking to experience a piece of early automotive history, a drive along Pioneer Trail or Old U.S. 50 offers a glimpse into the past—one mile at a time.
The Lincoln Highway, established in 1913, holds the distinction of being America’s first transcontinental automobile route, stretching from Times Square in New York City to Lincoln Park in San Francisco. In El Dorado County, this historic roadway not only facilitated early automobile travel but also spurred economic and infrastructural development in the region.
Historic Route Through El Dorado County
In El Dorado County, the original 1913 route of the Lincoln Highway often followed older pioneer trails over the Sierra Nevada mountains, reflecting its deep historical roots. Travelers today can explore segments of this historic highway, such as the stretch along Pioneer Trail, where remnants like old bridge sites and Trails West “T” markers are visible, indicating the path of the old pioneer Johnson’s Cut-off trail.
Remaining Drivable Sections Today
Several portions of the original Lincoln Highway in El Dorado County remain accessible to modern drivers:
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Pioneer Trail: This route offers a journey through history, with visible remnants of the original highway and pioneer trails.
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Zephyr Cove: On the northern side of the Zephyr Cove Lodge parking lot, a dirt section of the old road exists. The Forest Service has placed a sign highlighting the importance of this segment, marking it as one of the last original Lincoln Highway roadbeds around Lake Tahoe.
Original Cars That Traveled the Highway
In the early 20th century, the Lincoln Highway was traversed by a variety of automobiles, including:
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Ford Model T: Introduced in 1908, the Model T became one of the most popular vehicles of its time, known for its durability and affordability.
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Chevrolet Series 490: Launched in 1915, this model offered competition to the Model T with its affordability and features.
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Dodge Model 30: Introduced in 1914, the Dodge 30 was noted for its robust construction and became popular among early motorists.
Local Car Clubs Preserving Automotive History
Several car clubs in and around El Dorado County are dedicated to preserving and celebrating the legacy of these vintage automobiles:
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Hangtown A’s: Based in Placerville, this club focuses on the restoration and enjoyment of Model A Fords. They meet monthly and participate in various events to showcase their vehicles.
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Sacramento Capitol A’s: Meeting monthly in Carmichael, this group shares a passion for Model A Fords, organizing tours, workshops, and community events to promote interest in vintage automobiles.
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Mother Lode Model T Club: Located in Auburn, this club is dedicated to the preservation and enjoyment of Model T Fords, offering members opportunities for tours, technical advice, and social gatherings.
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Local Chevrolet Clubs: Various Chevrolet enthusiast groups in the region focus on the preservation and restoration of classic Chevrolet models, participating in local car shows and events.
These clubs not only preserve the rich automotive history associated with the Lincoln Highway but also educate the public and foster a community of enthusiasts who keep the legacy of early 20th-century motoring alive.
For more information on the Lincoln Highway and local car clubs, please visit the provided links.
