Owen Park

Owen Park is a historic neighborhood and municipal park located in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Established on June 8, 1910, it holds the distinction of being Tulsa's first public park. The park covers approximately 24 acres on the eastern side of the Owen Park Historic District, which spans 163.48 acres in total.

The park's history dates back to the early 20th century when it was part of land owned by Chauncey Owen. In 1909, the city purchased over 20 acres from Owen and his wife Mary for $13,500 to create the park. Initially, there was criticism about the land's price and its distance from downtown, but the announcement of a streetcar line to the park helped alleviate concerns.

Owen Park features a small lake created in 1913 when a ravine was dammed. This lake served as a popular swimming spot through the 1920s, complete with a twelve-foot diving tower. While swimming is no longer permitted, the lake remains a focal point of the park and is home to ducks and geese.

The park has witnessed several historical events and changes over the years. In 1910, five acres were sold to the Tulsa Vitrified Brick Company, leading to the creation of a large pit. After a tragic drowning incident in 1954, the city repurchased and filled the pit, reincorporating the land into the park.

Owen Park is not just a recreational space but also a site of historical significance. It houses monuments commemorating the meeting point of Cherokee, Creek, and Osage Indian nations, as well as a memorial to author Washington Irving, who wrote about the views from the park's hilltop.

Today, Owen Park continues to serve the community as a beloved green space, offering a blend of natural beauty, recreational facilities, and historical landmarks.