From my Oklahoma City postcard collection…

Hey there, history buffs and Oklahoma City enthusiasts! Today, I’m taking you on a nostalgic trip down memory lane to a place that’s been a staple of OKC fun and thrills since 1958. Let’s talk about the legendary Frontier City, an amusement park that’s as much a part of our city’s fabric as the Oklahoma State Fair itself.

Picture this: It’s 1959, and the ink has barely dried on Frontier City’s welcome sign. The park, situated snugly near Hefner Rd and I-35, is bustling with the energy of a new attraction that locals can’t get enough of. This historic postcard in my hand, with its black-and-white imagery, captures the essence of a simpler time when families flocked to Frontier City to experience the Wild West in their backyard.

Frontier City sprang to life in 1958, thanks to the vision of a committee led by the Hollywood publicist turned amusement park enthusiast, Jimmy Burge. He was inspired by Disneyland’s magic and saw the potential for a western-themed park right here in Oklahoma City. The park’s roots can be traced back to Boomtown, a replica of an Oklahoma pioneer town created for the state’s semicentennial celebration in 1957. After the exposition wrapped up, Burge and his partners, including Jack Williams, a businessman with a chain of laundries, decided to transform this temporary exhibit into a permanent fixture of fun and entertainment.

Walking through the original Frontier City was like stepping into a time machine. The Last Chance Saloon, the skyride, and the rooming house front at the park’s location at the Oklahoma State Fairgrounds are etched in my memory. The park was a living, breathing 1880s Western town complete with a Marshall’s office, a saloon, and more. It was an immersive experience that allowed guests to witness gunfight shows for just a quarter, while the rest of the park was free to roam.

In the 1960s and 1970s, Frontier City expanded, adding spinning rides, roller coasters, and a log flume ride that became instant hits. The park’s unique charm lay in its live entertainment, from staged gunfights to saloon shows, which kept visitors coming back for more.

As the years rolled by, Frontier City saw several changes in ownership and management, each bringing their own flavor to the park. The Tierco Group, Premier Parks, and even Six Flags had a hand in shaping its destiny. Despite the ups and downs, including rumors of closure and ownership changes, Frontier City has remained a steadfast symbol of Oklahoma City’s spirit.

The park’s resilience was on full display when it became the first in the Six Flags family to reopen in June 2020 after the COVID-19 pandemic forced a temporary shutdown. With new health and safety protocols in place, Frontier City once again welcomed guests, proving that it could weather any storm.

As a real estate professional with a passion for history, I see Frontier City as more than just an amusement park. It’s a testament to Oklahoma City’s growth and a mirror reflecting the changing times. It’s been a privilege to watch this beloved destination evolve and to know that it continues to create memories for new generations.

So, whether you’re a longtime resident or new to the area, a visit to Frontier City is like flipping through the pages of Oklahoma City’s vibrant history. It’s a place where the past and present collide, offering a unique experience that’s deeply rooted in our community’s heart.

If you’re ever in the mood for a dash of adventure and a slice of history, you know where to go. Frontier City isn’t just an amusement park; it’s a living storybook of Oklahoma City’s enduring charm. And who knows, maybe I’ll bump into you there, ready to relive the good old days or make some new memories. Until then, keep cherishing our city’s rich history and the landmarks that make it so special.

The Role of History in Home-Buying

Thank you for joining us on this journey through Oklahoma City’s past! From this historic postcard we’ve shared with you, it’s easy to see why our city is beloved by so many. As realtors, we believe that understanding our community’s rich history and culture enhances the home-buying experience. That’s why we’ve created comprehensive neighborhood pages on this site and an easy-to-use search feature to help you find your dream home. Whether you’re looking for a charming bungalow or a modern marvel, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. So why wait? Contact us today, and let’s discover your perfect property together. Let’s embrace the past, celebrate the present, and look forward to a bright future in OKC!

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The Oklahoma City Postcard Collection

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