Jefferson Davis Highway

Jefferson Davis Highway is a historic road network spanning from Virginia through eleven states to California, connecting diverse American regions. The route is traced today by modern highways including US 1, 15, 29, 61, 80, and 90 that follow its original path.

The road was initiated in 1913 by the United Daughters of the Confederacy as a transcontinental project connecting the eastern and western coasts. The project grew into a major transportation corridor during the early automobile era.

The road sections in Alabama and California represent different regional interpretations of American transportation development during the automobile age.

Individual segments of this historic route can be experienced today as a drive through multiple states, with marked highways providing the best guidance. Visitors should plan carefully since the route is quite long and spans diverse landscapes and conditions.

President Warren Harding marked the western terminus in 1921 with a ceremonial dedication in San Diego, bringing significant national attention to the young automobile culture. This event highlighted the road's importance in connecting America during a transformative time.

Location: Alabama

Location: Arizona

Location: California

Location: Georgia

Location: Louisiana

Location: Mississippi

Location: New Mexico

Location: North Carolina

Location: South Carolina

Location: Texas

Location: Virginia

Inception: 1913

Website: http://fhwa.dot.gov/infrastructure/jdavis.htm

GPS coordinates: 38.86690,-77.04770

Latest update: December 7, 2025 10:01