Thread: Turnpike

I've read an article about the Civil War in America, and there were different names for roads like "Warrenton Turnpike" or simply "Pike", "Smith Lane", "Sudley Road", "dirty track". I wonder what is the difference between them and are those "turnpikes" and "pikes" common only for American Eastern states, because the main meaning of this was a barrier set across a road, or is it used in other parts too.

Originally Posted by Propp

I've read an article about the Civil War in America, and there were different names for roads like "Warrenton Turnpike" or simply "Pike", "Smith Lane", "Sudley Road", "dirty track". I wonder what is the difference between them and are those "turnpikes" and "pikes" common only for American Eastern states, because the main meaning of this was a barrier set across a road, or is it used in other parts too.

"Pike" is an old term referring to roads, here in America.

Early America = American Eastern States. So, "Pike" is often used in the East, for some roads.

"Turnpike" is a common term for "toll roads" (you pay money)... these can be anywhere in the U.S.

I live 3 km from a "turnpike", here in the State of Kansas. Topeka, Kansas.

To visit my girlfriend, who lives in Lawrence, Kansas... about 30 km... I must pay $0.85 on the "turnpike".

"Pike" has other meanings... a "pike" is also a long, pointed stick, used in old military defense. Very efficient and effective defense against Cavalry (horse) soldiers... and to delay "foot" soldiers.

During the Civil War, "pikes" would often be placed, as barriers, across roads for military defense.