In February 1919, in memoriam of the recent passing of President Theodore Roosevelt, a group of civic leaders began the planning of a monumental road-the Theodore Roosevelt International Highway. Spanning more than 4,000 miles, the highway connected Portland, Maine to Portland, Oregon through the most northern states and Ontario Canada. Boasting seascapes and lake views, mountain vistas, and a breathtaking drive through the awesome Columbia River Gorge, the Theodore Roosevelt International Highway was the northernmost of the few transcontinental roads available in the 1920s and 30s and soon became an important route for the up and coming automobile. No other route has duplicated the Highway's variety and scenic grandeur or did more to encourage travel. Moose Crossing is the story of Theodore Roosevelt and the highway he inspired. It is a story of how Max Skidmore unearthed the remnants of America's most fascinating auto trail and experienced it all the way from Portland to Portland.

About the Author
Max J. Skidmore is University of Missouri Curator's Professor of Political Science and Thomas Jefferson Fellow at the University of Missouri-Kansas City. He received his Ph.D. from the University of Minnesota. An accomplished author, Dr. Skidmore has published numerous books including Social Security and its Enemies, Presidential Performance, and the Thorpe Menn Award winning After the White House.

Reviews
Moose Crossing is one of those especially valuable books because it cruises in three lanes concurrently. It is solid history, geography, and democratic culture...and fascinating all the way. As we used to say 'Happy Motoring.' -- Ray Browne, Professor Emeritus, Popular Culture, Bowling Green University
By studying the TRIH, Skidmore in Moose Crossing uncovers something of true historical significance that had been nearly forgotten through the years. The book will be of particular interest to libraries, highway departments, museums, state geographers, highway historians, historical societies, collectors of memorabilia, and driving enthusiasts. * Sir Read Alot Book Review *
Moose Crossing is a magnificent travelogue rich in regional history and popular culture. Skidmore's narrative of what he experienced, whom he met, the mix of natural wonders, and roadside kitsch he encountered, embellished by the cultural and political heritage of the regions he passed through, transforms primary historiography into a superb travel narrative. The best I can do is compare it to Nobel Prize winner John Steinbeck's 1961 Travels with Charley. Skidmore's Moose Crossing is far superior. -- Roger Fischer, Professor Emeritus of History, University of Minnesota-Duluth



Book Information
ISBN 9780761835103
Author Max J. Skidmore
Format Paperback
Page Count 290
Imprint Hamilton Books
Publisher University Press of America
Weight(grams) 535g
Dimensions(mm) 257mm * 181mm * 17mm