Sea Level Route

Allegedly, the quickest way from Washington, D.C. to Jacksonville.

“This splendid north-south highway in the shortest elapsed time takes the motorist through regions rich in history, romance, and picturesque beauty – a distinct contrast to the usual drab monotony of interior routes through congested industrial villages and small towns. The road shown in red on this map is in splendid condition throughout its entire length with the exception of the small stretch between Whiteville and Tabor, N.C., which, however, after March, 1933, will be paved.” – Text, lower right.

This handy guide map was published by the American Automobile Association in 1932. It highlights the Sea Level Highway, an organized and promoted route connecting Washington D.C. to Jacksonville, hugging the Atlantic Coast for much of the way. Paved, improved, and earth roads are noted throughout the image, while the verso offers a brief northbound and southbound itinerary, as well as copy text for the route.