McBirney Spring Site

Human beings are a fairly predictable animal. For instance, where you find water sources, you often will find evidence of human occupation. This phenomenon is seen throughout history and there are some sites, including many in Oklahoma, that have been occupied sporadically for thousands of years. One such site may be the McBirney Spring site. The spring sits on the northwest edge of the McBirney Mansion grounds. Its proximity to two river crossings immediately north and west made it a popular stopover point in historic times. The spring is also mentioned in Washington Irving's Tour on the Prairies.

An archaeological investigation is currently underway at the spring. The project was undertaken at the request of the Tulsa Preservation Commission in preparation for the construction of a parking lot. Dr. George O'Dell, Professor of Anthropology at the University of Tulsa, is directing the investigation. Findings so far include wagon parts, nails, flint flakes and burnt glass. According to Dr. O'Dell, "Very little prehistoric material has been found, but we are going to take the test pits all the way down." O'Dell continued, "The soil appears to be undisturbed despite reports of backfill from Riverside Drive." The excavation is laid out on a rough north-south grid running along Riverside Drive. It will be interesting to see what the excavation uncovers at this significant historical location.