Question

Approximately how long was the entire National Road?

Answer 1

Hint: The first improved highway in the United States of America was the National Road. On the west end stood Vandalia, Illinois and on the east end was Cumberland, Maryland. The highway today follows US route 40.

Complete answer: The 1000 km long road called the National Road was built between 1811 and 1837 by the federal government of the US. This road connected Vandalia, Illinois on the west end and Cumberland, Maryland on the east end. Thus, this is also known as the Cumberland road or the Cumberland Turnpike.

This road was not abandoned after the initial purpose of the movement of the settlers was completed. It has since then be remodified and renovated and currently stands as the US route 40. It was honoured as the Historic Civil Engineering Landmark in 1976.

The road was not built in a stretch but in parts because of the issues of funding. It was even extended to California and was given the title of National Old Trails Road.

Note: The National Road is not a standalone piece of commute. It has many other architectural structures accounted for. The Peterburg Tollhouse, the Red Brick Tavern and the Wheeling Suspension Bridge are amongst the many structures associated with the National Road.