For many years, I've had it in my mind that traveling the full length of a highway and photographing the journey would be a super exciting project.  Several years ago, I learned about the Meridian Highway, which has been called North America's first international highway.  In 1911, it was proposed to go from Winnipeg, Manitoba to Mexico City.  When the United States changed to a numbered scheme for highways, the Meridian Highway was then called US 81.

Last summer, I had many wonderful creative discussions with an excellent musician, Joshua Kloyda.  These were held late at night at the Goss Opera House, where we both have work space.  We sat at an old weathered wood table, which was eventually dubbed the "therapy table".  Somewhere along the line, I mentioned to Joshua my thoughts about the Meridian Highway project.  Traveling end to end and photographing the journey.  Wasn't long before Joshua said, "I'm in!"

Fugitives Badge copy3

So the project changed a little and evolved and new members were added.  The plan now is that four creatives will set off this summer on this journey from the Canadian border to the Mexican border and travel the old Meridian (as close as we can from old maps) to rediscover the history and the people along the way.  We hope to deliver a documentary, a photo/word book and a music CD.

Hope you'll follow along.  You can find the project here:  http://fugitivesforgottenhwy.com/

I'll definitely be sharing photos along the way as much as possible.

The graphic is our badge that incorporates the old highway marker sign of the red MH for the Meridian Highway.

-- Patrick