You only think you know Sapulpa.
Every week we publish stories of Sapulpa's history, recalling both the events at the time, and the nostalgia for days gone by. Dig in and learn more about what the Sapulpa of yesteryear was like.
Proudly brought to you by the Sapulpa Historical Society Museum
This Week in Sapulpa History: Building and Expanding in the New Decade
The 1960s in Sapulpa had not only buildings being torn down but buildings were being prepared for new businesses and expansions of old businesses or replacing older buildings with new ones.
July 20, 2024 This Week in Sapulpa History: A Reel-y Big Fire
One of the more significant fires in downtown Sapulpa happened today in 1952, when the Reel Drug Store, and The Royal Cafe, buildings that had already caught fire once, erupted into flames again.
July 7, 2024 This Week in Sapulpa History: Busy July 1906
As Sapulpa went from June into July in 1906, the town was seeing a surge of new business, new oil strikes (and fires), and new entertainment. Read about what happened in Sapulpa this week in history.
June 28, 2024 This Week in Sapulpa History: Frankoma Opens in Sapulpa
How do you define "Frankoma?" More than the pottery, more than the man who created them—Frankoma means family, hardship, reconstruction, and Sapulpa history. Read more inside.
June 22, 2024 This Week in Sapulpa History – County Road, Infamous Highway
This week in history, Sapulpa's Lowdermilk Road—later part of the Ozark Trail and Route 66, opened up access to the communities west of Sapulpa.
June 6, 2024 This Week in Sapulpa History: Chasing cars, bullets, and robbers
At 407 West McKinley, the Hotchkiss Grocery was closed for the night. Except it wasn’t empty; nor was it quiet, safe, and sound. The Hotchkiss Grocery store was robbed by two men.
June 1, 2024
Do You Remember: The Tasty Pastry Bakery?
In our new weekly feature, "Do you remember?" Charles Betzler reminisces about the Tasty Pastry Bakery, which became well-known for their bread and desserts.
Do You Remember…City Drug?
"I can still remember what the store looked like..." step back in time with a look at another now-gone local business that shaped Sapulpa.
Do you remember…Dago’s Shoe Shine Parlor?
Dago Pearce became such a fixture at his old location that the Sapulpa Historical Society honored him with a replica of his shop, which can be seen on 114 E. Lee Street.
Do you remember…Criterion Theater?
When my Father let me out of work, I would watch a Thursday afternoon matinee for a mere 35 cents. You could see the Saturday matinee or the evening show while enjoying popcorn and a Coke for under a dollar.
Do you remember…Morton’s Department Store?
Some of you might remember that before Walmart and other big box stores were the norm, you'd buy your clothes at department stores. In Sapulpa, Morton's was one of the most patronized and personalized available.
Do You Remember…Standard Chevrolet?
See the USA in your Chevrolet! Dinah Shore belted out this musical advertisement on the “Dinah Shore Show” in the 1950s.Where was the best place for Sapulpans to buy their Chevrolets? Why, Standard Chevrolet, of course!
Do You Remember: Marcus Horn & T.J. Kennedy Car Dealerships?
Learn about the dealership that has had three names and two locations, that's never left the family.
Do you remember…Gibson Lumber?
At one time, Sapulpa had five lumber yards. Now there's only one. Read about one of the most memorable.
Do You Remember…Sugar Loaf Hill?
Even if you've never heard of Sugar Loaf hill, you've probably been there hundreds of times.
Do you remember…Lee’s Hickory Bar-B-Q?
Before it was destroyed in a tornado, Lee Birmingham's BBQ joint was the very definition of "lip-smacking BBQ"
Do you remember…Ed Livermore, Sr.?
The revered owner and publisher of the Sapulpa Herald transformed the newspaper from a struggling enterprise into a an award-winning publication.
Do You Remember…Betzler’s New and Used?
I am highlighting my father’s business since he recently had the 43rd anniversary of his death. I am writing this column as homage to my father and his business.