Blue Whale of Catoosa facts for kids
The Blue Whale of Catoosa is a super cool, giant whale-shaped building located just outside the town of Catoosa, Oklahoma in the United States. It's one of the most famous and easily recognized sights along the historic Route 66.
How the Blue Whale Was Built
A man named Hugh Davis built the Blue Whale in the early 1970s. It was a special anniversary gift for his wife, Zelta, who loved collecting whale figurines. The giant Blue Whale and the pond around it quickly became a favorite spot for swimming. Both local people and travelers on Route 66 loved to visit.
At first, the pond was fed by a natural spring and was just for the family. But so many people wanted to swim there! So, Mr. Davis brought in tons of sand to make a beach. He also added picnic tables and hired lifeguards. Soon, it was open for everyone to enjoy.
A Popular Roadside Stop
Mr. Davis called his new attraction "Nature's Acres." He kept adding more fun things to do. Eventually, it included "The Fun and Swim Blue Whale" and the "A.R.K." (Animal Reptile Kingdom). The attraction also featured Hugh's brother-in-law, Chief Wolf-Robe Hunt. He was a full-blooded Acoma Indian and was famous for his amazing Indian paintings. He was also a very skilled silversmith. Chief Wolf-Robe Hunt once ran a shop called the Arrowood Trading Post across the highway from the Blue Whale.
By 1988, the Davis family could no longer manage the attraction. They decided to close it to the public. Hugh Davis passed away in January 1990, and his wife Zelta passed away in 2001. The park then started to fall apart. It was neglected and damaged by the weather.
However, about ten years later, the people of Catoosa, Oklahoma and workers from the Hampton Inn decided to help. They started raising money and volunteering their time. Their goal was to fix up the famous Route 66 landmark. The Blue Whale was restored and painted its original bright blue color. The picnic area next to it was also repaired and looks great again.
Images for kids
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A wide photo of the Blue Whale of Catoosa
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Inside the Blue Whale
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A "Kissing whales" sign above the right-hand entrance
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An information sign about the roadside attraction
