The Historical Society offers programs on a variety of historical topics for groups upon request. Programs include photographs or artifacts and accompanying commentary.

Available programs:

Art Deco 101

Learn the basics of Art Deco through photographs and live commentary.  Art deco, which includes much more than just architecture, was popular from the 1920s through the 1940s.  It included three distinct styles, all of which are found in Tulsa.

Culture Comes to Tulsa

This program addresses the significant cultural and civic impact women had on the early development of the city of Tulsa. A number of cultural groups formed in the early years helped promote art, music, and education in the community. Several of the organizations still exist today, more than 100 years later.

Early Tulsa

This photographic history of Tulsa’s early life will take you from 1893 to 1909 as a cow-town in Indian Territory develops into a city.  Learn what events affected the community’s growth.  See pictures of a ferry crossing the Arkansas River, the Jeff Archer Store, the Frisco Depot, street cars, the first amusement park, and the first hospital.

Gusher!

The discovery of the Glenpool oilfield led to Tulsa being proclaimed the “Oil Capital of the World.”  Follow the boom and bust development from the early days of roughnecks and wildcatters to the fabulous wealth oil companies bestowed upon Tulsa.  Photographs of oil fields, laborers, schools, bridges, and booster trains reflect our city as it grew during the time.

From the Pig’s Ear Café to Cleora’s Kitchen

Travel through Tulsa’s culinary history beginning in 1905 when the Pig’s Ear Café served fried chicken dinners to oil field workers, millionaire oil producers, railroad men, and cowboys.  See photos of early boarding houses and cafes.  Learn what challenges existed when raising a garden and finding meat in early Tulsa.

Oklahoma Outlaws & Lawmen

Hear the tales of the Doolin Gang, the Daltons, Tulsa Jack, Belle Starr, Bill Cook and other outlaws who lived around Tulsa in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Celebrate the Indian Territory U.S. Marshalls as well as the lawmen from the Indian Nations called Lighthorsemen. Listen to stories about the famous hanging judge, Isaac Parker. This photographic presentation is suggested for mature audiences.

Tulsa Theaters of Yesteryear

Tulsa’s movie theater history began in 1906 with the opening of the Dreamland and Lyric Theaters.  Follow the rise and fall of Tulsa’s elegant and glamorous theaters and their cultural and economic impact on our city. The program includes photographs and commentary showcasing over 26 theaters, including the Orpheum, Ritz, and Delman.