Red Fork, Oklahoma facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Red Fork
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 Red Fork
Location in Oklahoma
Red Fork
Location in the United States
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| Country | United States |
| State | Oklahoma |
| County | Tulsa |
| Time zone | UTC-6 (Central (CST)) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-5 (CDT) |
Red Fork is a community located in Southwest Tulsa. It started in 1883 as a railhead (a place where trains loaded and unloaded goods) along the Arkansas River. Red Fork is well-known because it was home to the very first oil well in Tulsa County. This famous well was called the Sue A. Bland #1.
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Why is it Called Red Fork?
Some people think Red Fork was named after the Cimarron River. However, the Cimarron River's reddish parts are much further away.
The name 'Red Fork' actually comes from the Arkansas River. When the Arkansas River joins the normally blue-green Verdigris River, the Arkansas River often looks reddish. Early explorers noticed this strong color difference as they traveled upstream. This striking contrast is why the area, and later the community, got the name Red Fork.
The Early Days of Red Fork
Red Fork was originally located along what would become Route 66. It stretched from Lookout Mountain west towards Berryhill.
After oil was discovered, it seemed like Red Fork might become bigger than Tulsa. However, people who supported Tulsa worked hard to attract new residents and businesses there. Also, Red Fork's size was limited by the river's bend and by steep hills.
Tulsa officially took over Red Fork on October 16, 1927. In 1928, Red Fork's post office became a part of the Tulsa Post Office. It was renamed Red Fork Station, which is now called West Tulsa Station.
The Sue A. Bland #1 Oil Well
The Sue A. Bland #1 oil well was drilled in Red Fork by Dr. J.C.W. Bland and Fred S. Clinton. The well was on land belonging to Dr. Bland's wife, Sue A. Bland. She was a citizen of the Creek Nation.
The well struck oil on June 24, 1901. This discovery brought a lot of attention to the Tulsa region and Indian Territory. It also led to many people wanting to invest in oil.
What You Can Find in Red Fork Today
While Red Fork is mostly a place where people live, it has some interesting spots. It is home to television station KTUL (Channel 8). You can also find a unique restaurant with a railroad theme.
There is an award-winning bed and breakfast in a 120-year-old rock home. You can also find businesses related to Route 66. The area has historic schools and a BNSF railroad yard. A popular Tulsa Park recreation center is also located here.
Nearby, there are two colleges and a major Tulsa regional library. You can also find businesses related to oil and transportation.
Crystal City Amusement Park
Red Fork was once home to the Crystal City Amusement Park. This park had a giant swimming pool. It also featured Tulsa's original, huge "Zingo Roller Coaster."
The park was privately owned and built in 1929. However, it closed down in the 1950s. This happened after both the Casa Loma bath house and dance hall buildings burned down.
