Victory Way: Road of Remembrance
By Curt Cunningham

In the 1920’s, a short stretch of the Pacific Highway between Seattle and Bothell was transformed into something more than a roadway—it became a tribute to the heroes of World War I. Victory Way, also known as the "Road of Remembrance," was envisioned as a living memorial to the sacrifices of American soldiers, aligning with a nationwide movement to honor the fallen through the natural beauty of tree-lined highways.
Origins of Victory Way

Victory Way was established in 1922 as a memorial road. A one-mile section of the Pacific Highway, from N. 137th to N. 160th streets in North Seattle, was dedicated to the memory of World War I veterans. This section became part of the Bothell Branch of the Sunset Highway in 1925, which itself evolved from the original Pacific Highway before that route was redirected onto Aurora Avenue.

Inspired by the American Forestry Association's 1919 call for memorial tree planting, communities across the nation were encouraged to beautify roads with tree-lined avenues that would serve as enduring symbols of remembrance. The idea extended beyond simple commemoration; it sought to transform roads into places of reflection, aesthetic beauty, and civic pride.

The Vision of Roads of Remembrance

The "Roads of Remembrance" initiative was born out of a post-war desire to create lasting memorials that integrated with everyday life. Motor Travel Magazine, in its 1919 coverage, emphasized the transformative potential of these projects. Trees were planted not only to memorialize soldiers but also to enhance the experience of travelers and create a sense of connection between towns and communities. Charles Lathrop Peck, President of the American Forestry Association, eloquently described this dual purpose: "The real burden [of a road] is civilization; the bringing together of people and town."

This philosophy mirrored efforts in other countries. In France, for instance, rows of memorial trees along roadways had long been a tradition, and similar plans emerged in Great Britain to create a nationwide network of commemorative roads, bridges, and parks. Victory Way in Washington State embodied this global trend, aiming to connect the region’s communities with a shared tribute to its veterans.

Expansion and Legacy

Initially spanning only a short stretch of road, Victory Way grew to connect North Seattle’s University Bridge to Kenmore by the early 1930s. This continuous route not only honored the fallen but also encouraged travelers to appreciate the natural and cultural heritage of the area. Unfortunately, by the late 1930s, the name "Victory Way" began to fade from public consciousness and much of the tree-lined character of the road was lost to urban development and changing infrastructure needs.

However, its legacy endures in the history of the region and the broader Roads of Remembrance movement. This initiative inspired communities across the nation to transform roads into symbolic avenues of beauty and remembrance.

National and Global Inspiration

Victory Way was part of a broader effort that extended far beyond Washington State. Across the United States, similar memorials were established:
• Potomac Drive, Washington, D.C.: Renowned for its iconic tree-lined beauty.
• Jefferson Highway, Louisiana: Planted with "Victory Oaks" along its length.
• Memorial Drives and Groves: Established in cities like Minneapolis and Buffalo, creating long-lasting tributes to the Great War.

In Michigan, walnut trees were planted along the Chicago-Saginaw highway, while the Oregon Federation of Women’s Clubs advocated for a Roosevelt Road. These projects highlighted the creative potential of integrating memorials with road-building efforts. Globally, countries like France and Canada created large-scale memorial parks and tree-lined highways, commemorating pivotal battlegrounds and soldiers' sacrifices.

A Timeless Vision

Victory Way’s story is a reminder of the potential to blend practicality with purpose. As road-building projects continue in modern times, the Roads of Remembrance initiative offers timeless inspiration: a call to honor the past while enriching the present. Planting memorial trees and creating beautiful, functional infrastructure can unite communities, preserve history, and enhance the environment for future generations.

Victory Way may no longer be the grand commemorative highway it once was, but its memory remains a testament to the enduring desire to honor sacrifice with beauty and connection. By revisiting its history, we are reminded of the values that shaped the roads we travel today.

Modern Highways Dedicated to Fallen Heroes

Today, the tradition of dedicating highways to fallen heroes and veterans continues across the United States. These modern memorial highways serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by service members and provide an opportunity for travelers to reflect on their legacy. Here are a few examples of how this tradition has evolved:

• Interstate 35: "Purple Heart Trail"
Portions of Interstate 35 and other highways across the country are designated as part of the Purple Heart Trail. This network of roads honors recipients of the Purple Heart, a military decoration awarded to those wounded or killed in combat. Established in 1992 by the Military Order of the Purple Heart, it spans multiple states, allowing millions of drivers to encounter these silent tributes.

• Veterans Memorial Highways
Many states have renamed key roadways as Veterans Memorial Highways. For example, U.S. Route 66 in Missouri and Interstate 5 in Oregon bear this name, reminding travelers of the service and sacrifice of veterans from all branches of the military.

• Gold Star Memorial Highways
Some highways are dedicated to Gold Star families—those who have lost a loved one in military service. These roads, such as parts of U.S. Route 101 in California and Florida's Interstate 75, are poignant acknowledgments of their profound loss.

• State-Level Dedications
Individual states have taken creative steps to honor veterans. In Texas, the "Medal of Honor Highway" runs along U.S. Highway 83, while in Pennsylvania, sections of highways are named for specific regiments, units, or local heroes.

• Memorial Bridges and Roadside Markers
Beyond highways, bridges and scenic byways are often dedicated to veterans. These smaller-scale memorials serve as focal points of remembrance, with plaques and markers explaining their historical significance.

A Continued Legacy

These modern highways, much like Victory Way and the Roads of Remembrance, reflect a deep national respect for military service. Through plaques, signs, and namesakes, these roads allow the stories of courage and sacrifice to remain part of the landscape.

As infrastructure continues to evolve, the tradition of dedicating roads to heroes offers a meaningful way to preserve the memory of those who served while fostering a sense of unity and gratitude among travelers. The legacy of roads like Victory Way lives on in these highways, ensuring that future generations remember the cost of freedom and the sacrifices that secure it.