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How Oil-Rich Tulsa Real Estate Reinvented Itself

For most of the last century, Tulsa, Oklahoma was known as the "Oil Capital of the World." Its economy was heavily dependent on the oil industry, providing many of the jobs in the city. However, hard times required diversification. This has resulted in the Tulsa real estate picture taking on a dramatic makeover.

However, it wasn't the first time that the Tulsa skyline has been made over. Take a look into Tulsa's ancient and recent history, and you'll find that Tulsa has experienced a continuously changing history.

Tulsa in the 19th Century

The real estate now known as Tulsa, Oklahoma was begun as Indian Territory where Native Americans were forcibly transplanted to in the 1830's. After being driven out of their native Alabama, the Lochapoka clan of the Creek Nation of Native Americans were among the first people to settle in what would become Tulsa.

The Lochapoka that settled there, right around what is present day Cheyenne Avenue and 18th Street, gave the name of "Tulasi," which means "old town." In fact, at that very same location today continues to stand a burr oak tree. That tree marks the spot where 469 Lochapoka, of 630 who began the initial involuntary migration from their native land (161 died in route), performed a traditional ceremony called a "busk" upon their arrival.

The Tulsa-Lochapoka continued using the spot as a meeting area for feasts and ceremonies well into the late 19th century. The tree is today known as the Creek Council Tree and resides protected in the Creek Nation Council Oak Park.

The late 19th century also brought growth during the reconstruction era at the end of the Civil War. The arrival of the railroad and the discovery of oil brought a rapid increase in population starting in the early 20th century.

Tulsa's 20th Century Growth

Oil help build a strong economy for Tulsa. By 1907, when Oklahoma attained statehood, Tulsa's population was nearing 7,300. But that would pale in comparison to what happened after a second boom of oil discoveries resulted in a population growth to 72,000 by 1920.

Tulsa had established itself as the Oil Capital of the World. But an oil bust in 1982 saw the city lose its title to Houston. The city was forced to diversify its economy by bringing in blue-collar factory jobs and attracting technology companies to the area.

An abundant supply of natural gas helped keep the economy growing during this time as well.

Tulsa in the 21st Century

Leaders passed a "Vision 2025" program with the intention of revitalizing Tulsa's infrastructure. This includes the construction of the Bank of Oklahoma (BOK) Center, a more than half-million square foot multi-purpose arena.

Other plans for the Vision 2025 program include the upgrading of American Airlines' maintenance facility in Tulsa (the city's largest employer), upgrades to several local colleges, money for public schools, and improvements to roads and parks.

So once again, Tulsa real estate will be changing shape as it fights to keep up with modern times and changes.

About the Author

Remax Oklahoma (http://www.remax-oklahoma.com) specializes in offering Tulsa real estate as well homes for sale throughout Oklahoma. The author, Art Gib, is a freelance writer.

Author Profile: artgib

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