Storyteller: John Williams

Interviewer: Chuck Ayers

Date: 01/25/2005

Description: Oral History interview with John H. Williams, CEO of Williams Company, Tulsa OK. Story begins with John H Williams first visit to Tulsa in 1940 with his uncles who owned Williams Brothers. Main story is about Mr. Williams taking over the Williams Company, it's growth in the Tulsa area, different buildings they occupied and the construction of the Williams tower. He gives details how the land was acquired to build the tower. He talks about the architect who designed the tower. Also the role Mayor Robert LaFortune had in the process. He mentions the birth of the PAC and the hotel next to the tower. Mr. Williams briefly discusses his family. He concludes with his thoughts on downtown in the current state and any changes or expectations he would like to see.

Subjects: John H. Williams CEO, Williams Company, Williams Tower construction, Mayor Robert LaFortune, Tulsa PAC opening, Hotel opening, Downtown today.