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 – Sapulpa’s Funeral Homes History
In this two-part story, learn how Sapulpa's funeral homes began, and how eventually, one of them would make national news!
April 21, 2024 This Week in Sapulpa History: High School Mischief
In 1920, Sapulpa boys jokingly chased down the high school principal and tossed him in their new school pool...only to realize the poor guy couldn't swim! Or could he?
April 1, 2024 This Week in Sapulpa History: The Newspaper “War” of 1912
When one of Sapulpa's newspapers alleges that the Frisco Railroad might be getting its water for free from the city, or that the water plant might be sold to a syndicate, how did the others respond? See the details of the back-and-forth in Sapulpa's newspapers of 1912.
March 26, 2024 This Week in Sapulpa History – First Lady Tours Oklahoma
This week in history, First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt made a trip visit to Creek County as part of a nationwide tour. Read what she said about Bristow, Sapulpa and more inside.
March 18, 2024 This Week in Sapulpa History: What Happened This Week 100 Years Ago?
Many things took place in Sapulpa 100 years ago this week; School attendance and students made the news, the Sapulpa Junior Chamber of Commerce announces a huge event, and something strange happened to the post office. These headlines kept a highlight of what was going on in the city.
March 13, 2024 This Week in Sapulpa History: The Bovaird Supply Company comes to Sapulpa
In the beginning of Sapulpa's oil boom, Sapulpa’s oil supply houses were nonexistent, whereas Tulsa had seven supply houses. Then came Bovaird.
March 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.