Tulsa History Tour With Underground Tunnels

Tulsa, Oklahoma boasts a captivating history that comes alive through the Tulsa History Tour with Underground Tunnels. This unique experience takes visitors on a journey through a network of hidden passageways, unveiling the city’s rich past and its struggles during the Prohibition era. From exploring architectural marvels to delving into the tragic legacy of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, the tour offers a thought-provoking look at the layers of stories that have shaped this vibrant community. What secrets lie beneath the surface, waiting to be uncovered?

Key Points

• Explore Tulsa’s history through a guided tour of the city’s network of secret underground tunnels, used for illicit activities during the prohibition era.
• Discover architectural marvels like the Philcade Building and Tulsa Club Building, showcasing the city’s rich history and evolution over time.
• Learn about the Tulsa Race Massacre of 1921, a dark chapter in the city’s past, and how it has impacted the Greenwood District.
• Tour not wheelchair accessible and involves navigating narrow, dimly-lit tunnels, suitable for healthy adults with mobility considerations.
• Uncover hidden gems and insights into Tulsa’s resilience and enduring spirit by keeping an open mind during the tour experience.

Discover Tulsa’s Rich History

Though Tulsa may be known today as a bustling modern city, its history is rich with stories of growth, resilience, and cultural diversity. Founded in 1836 as a settlement for the Creek Nation, Tulsa’s early years were marked by a thriving Native American community.

The discovery of oil in the early 1900s led to a booming economy and rapid expansion, earning Tulsa the nickname "Oil Capital of the World."

The city’s historic districts, such as the Brady Arts District and Greenwood District, showcase its past as a hub of industry, creativity, and racial tensions.

This tour offers a glimpse into Tulsa’s captivating past.

Exploring the Underground Tunnels

What lies beneath the bustling streets of downtown Tulsa? A network of secret underground tunnels, once used for illicit activities, now offers a window into the city’s storied past.

Explorers on this unique tour will:

• Descend into the dimly lit passages, where the echoes of history whisper tales of prohibition and organized crime.
• Uncover the hidden architectural gems that line the tunnels, a testament to Tulsa’s Golden Age.
• Gain a deeper understanding of the city’s resilience and the enduring spirit that has shaped its evolution.

This captivating journey through Tulsa’s underground realm promises to leave a lasting impression on all who dare to venture below the surface.

Architectural Gems of Downtown Tulsa

Along the underground passageways, travelers uncover a treasure trove of architectural marvels that offer a captivating glimpse into Tulsa’s storied past.

The iconic Philcade Building stands as a stunning example of Art Deco design, its ornate façade and grand lobby adorned with intricate details.

Nearby, the Tulsa Club Building showcases the city’s ambition, its towering presence a testament to Tulsa’s growth in the early 20th century.

These architectural gems, preserved and protected, serve as living reminders of Tulsa’s rich history, inviting visitors to explore and appreciate the city’s enduring spirit.

The Tulsa Race Massacre of 1921

The Tulsa Race Massacre of 1921 marked a dark and tragic chapter in the city’s history. On May 31st and June 1st, a white mob attacked Black residents and businesses in the Greenwood district, destroying the prosperous community known as "Black Wall Street".

The devastation was immense:

• An estimated 300 people were killed.
• Over 1,200 homes and businesses were burned to the ground.
• The violence left thousands of Black Tulsans homeless, injured, or dead.

This horrific event was largely erased from history until recent decades, when it began to receive the attention it deserves as one of the worst incidents of racial violence in American history.

Tulsa’s Oil Boom and Bust Cycle

Tulsa’s prosperity in the early 20th century was largely driven by the city’s booming oil industry. Vast reserves of black gold beneath the earth fueled the city’s rapid growth, attracting workers, businesses, and investors from across the country.

Fortunes were made and lost as wildcatters struck it rich and bust cycles followed. The discovery of the Glenn Pool oil field in 1905 was a pivotal moment, kickstarting Tulsa’s transformation into an oil hub.

However, the industry’s volatile nature also left the city vulnerable to economic downturns. Tulsa’s fortunes rose and fell with the price of oil, shaping its history in profound ways.

Philcade Building and Local Branch Office

The Philcade Building, a historic Art Deco structure, serves as the tour’s final destination.

This iconic skyscraper was once the headquarters of the Amalgamated Oil Company, a major player in Tulsa’s oil boom.

Visitors are captivated by the building’s striking architectural features, including:

• Ornate limestone facade
• Intricate terra cotta detailing
• Elegant lobby with marble floors and coffered ceilings

The tour culminates at the Local Branch Office, a cozy cafe nestled within the Philcade Building.

Here, guests can savor local flavors and reflect on the rich history they’ve just explored, gaining a deeper appreciation for Tulsa’s vibrant past.

Insider Tips for the Tulsa History Tour

What should you know before embarking on the Tulsa History Tour with Underground Tunnels?

First, it’s not wheelchair accessible, so travelers with mobility issues should take note.

Bring comfortable shoes as you’ll be on your feet for the 1.5-hour duration.

The tour involves navigating narrow, dimly-lit tunnels, so those with claustrophobia or serious medical conditions may want to reconsider participating.

While children aren’t recommended, most healthy adults can take part.

Finally, keep an open mind – you’ll uncover hidden gems and gain a deeper appreciation for Tulsa’s rich history on this unique underground exploration.

What to Expect on the Underground Tunnels Tour

Descending into Tulsa’s intricate underground tunnel system is a captivating experience that offers a unique glimpse into the city’s storied past.

As the tour guide leads the way, visitors will:

• Explore the hidden network of tunnels, once used for everything from transporting goods to evading Prohibition-era raids.

• Discover the architectural details and engineering marvels that have stood the test of time.

• Hear tales of the city’s booming past and the influential figures who walked these subterranean corridors.

The tour provides a rare opportunity to explore Tulsa’s rich history, immersing participants in a world that few have the chance to experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour has an age restriction – it’s for adults only. Young children are not recommended to participate, as the tour may not be suitable for them based on the duration and accessibility requirements.

Is Photography Allowed During the Underground Tunnel Portion?

Photography is generally allowed during the underground tunnel portion of the tour, but participants should check with the guide beforehand as some areas may have restrictions. It’s best to get permission before taking photos in the tunnels.

Can Dietary Requirements Be Accommodated on the Tour?

The tour does not include any food or meals, so there are no dietary requirements to accommodate. Guests should plan to bring any personal snacks or beverages they may need during the 1.5-hour tour.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tulsa History Tour?

The tour has a casual dress code. Participants should wear comfortable walking shoes and dress for the weather, as the tour involves exploring underground tunnels and walking around the city. No formal attire is required.

Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Tour?

The tour information does not mention an option to extend the duration. The tour is a set 1.5-hour experience, and there’s no indication it can be lengthened. Travelers should plan accordingly based on the provided tour details.

The Sum Up

The Tulsa History Tour with Underground Tunnels offers a captivating exploration of the city’s past, unearthing its complex narratives. Visitors explore Tulsa’s Prohibition-era secrets, witness architectural marvels, and confront the tragic legacy of the 1921 Race Massacre. This tour encourages open-mindedness as it uncovers the layered stories that have shaped Tulsa, leaving participants with a deeper understanding of this vibrant and resilient city.