Cruisin' Through Tulsa: A Time Capsule of the 1960s with a Side of Route 66 Nostalgia
So, you wanna know about Tulsa in the 1960s? Buckle up, buttercup, because we're about to take a joyride through a decade that was equal parts groovy, greasy (and we're not just talkin' the hair!), and full of surprises.
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| How Was Tulsa Oklahoma In The 1960s |
Oil Boom or Bust?
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Tulsa's economy had been chugging along nicely thanks to the black gold, but by the 60s, things were diversifying. Sure, oil was still king, but manufacturing, healthcare, and even tech were starting to make their mark. The city was transforming from a one-trick pony to a full-fledged disco ball (okay, maybe not a disco ball, but you get the idea).
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Teen Beat on Route 66
Forget TikTok and Instagram - cruising Memorial Drive was THE place to see and be seen in the 60s. Picture teenagers with pompadours slicker than an ice rink, muscle cars rumbling down the highway, and sock hops that would make your poodle skirt spin. Route 66 pulsed with life, and Tulsa was right in the thick of it.
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The Civil Rights Movement Makes a Pitstop
The 60s weren't all sunshine and sock hops. Segregation was still a major issue, and Tulsa wasn't immune. But the Civil Rights Movement was gaining momentum, and Tulsa saw its fair share of protests and struggles. It wasn't always easy, but progress was being made, slow and steady like a turtle crossing the highway (hopefully not on Route 66!).
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The Verdict: Tulsa in the 60s - Groovy or Greasy?
The truth is, Tulsa in the 60s was a mixed bag. It was a city on the move, shedding its old skin and embracing a new era. There were economic booms, social struggles, and enough teenage angst to fuel a lifetime of Elvis impersonations. But through it all, there was a certain charm, a sense of community, and a whole lotta fun to be had (as long as you stayed away from the wrong side of the tracks... metaphorically speaking, of course).
How To dive deeper into Tulsa's 1960s?
- How to channel your inner greaser? Invest in a good can of hair grease, a leather jacket (think cool, not creepy), and maybe a pack of cigarettes (but don't actually smoke, those things are bad for you!).
- How to make a killer 60s playlist? Think Beach Boys, Bob Dylan, and the Supremes. Don't forget some classic rock and roll for good measure!
- How to experience a bit of Route 66 nostalgia? Plan a road trip along the remaining sections of the highway. There are tons of cool diners, museums, and kitschy roadside attractions to check out.
- How to learn more about the Civil Rights Movement in Tulsa? The Tulsa Historical Society and Greenwood Cultural Center are great places to start.
- How to make the most of a trip to Tulsa today? Visit Philbrook Museum of Art, explore the Tulsa Botanic Garden, or catch a show at Cain's Ballroom (a historic music venue that's been around since the 1920s!).
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