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Tulsa, Oklahoma ::::: January 29, 2009
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The Lochapoka and Creek tribes settled in Tulsa during 1836, making Tulsa part of the original Indian Territory. The name “Tulsa” is derived from the Creek word “Tallasi” which means “old town”. The Council Oak tree near downtown Tulsa is generally regarded as the spot at which these tribes first settled. The city of Tulsa was officially incorporated on January 18, 1898.
Tulsa’s history as an oil town started in 1901 with its first oil well, the Sue Bland #1. Several years later, during 1905, the Glenn Pool was discovered south of Tulsa. Now known as Glenpool, this major discovery of oil attracted thousands of people looking to share in the incredible revenues generated by not only the oil but also the ancillary services required to service the Glenn Pool.
Shortly thereafter, Tulsa became known as the “Oil Capital of the World”, a title it retained for much of the 20th century. Tulsa continued to experience success in the energy industry, using the profits generated to bolster Tulsa’s economy during the Great Depression.
Tulsa is also infamous for the “Tulsa Race Riot” during 1921. A very successful African American business community referred to as “Black Wall Street” seemed to be at the epicenter of this riot which resulted in many deaths and the destruction of much property on Tulsa’s north side. Many of the details of this event were disputed by both sides, and most of the people who survived the “Tulsa Race Riot” are since deceased. However, very few people dispute that it was one of the nation’s costliest acts of racial violence and civil disorder.
The “Father of Route 66” was Cyrus Avery, a Tulsa businessman who had the vision of creating a road from Chicago to Los Angeles during 1925. Because of his involvement with this project, Tulsa became known as the “Birthplace of Route 66”. Although this 2-lane highway was later replaced by the Interstate highway system, many famous icons remain all along the highway. Many signs and rest stops along 11th Street in Tulsa have been preserved.
One of the most famous places in Tulsa is Cain’s Ballroom. Bob Wills and The Texas Playboys began playing at the Cain’s during the 1930’s. It remains an important music venue and a popular Tulsa attraction, and most recently has been purchased and restored by my friend Dr. Jim Rodgers.
Tulsa has a fascinating history, and is a great place to live and to work. You can find plenty more information at the following links:
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