From my Oklahoma City postcard collection…

Hey there, fellow Oklahoma City history buffs!

I recently came across a charming postcard featuring the Oklahoma County Courthouse as it stood in the mid-1950s, right in the heart of downtown Oklahoma City. It’s like a little snapshot of history, frozen in time, and it got me thinking about the stories these old walls could tell.

The courthouse we see today, at 321 Park Avenue, has been an Oklahoma City staple since 1937. It’s hard to imagine, but this spot used to be home to the original courthouse—a $100,000 bond-funded structure at the corner of California and Robinson. But as the city grew, so did the need for a bigger, more modern space to serve justice.

Enter Solomon Layton and his partners, George Forsyth and Jewel Hicks, from the firm Layton & Forsyth. These architectural visionaries designed the art deco masterpiece that has graced our city for decades. And let me tell you, they didn’t hold back on the grandeur. This 11-floor concrete beauty, listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1992, was a product of its time, funded by a $1.5 million bond issue and the Public Works Administration—a true testament to the resilience and spirit of the Great Depression era.

The courthouse’s design is a nod to history and innovation, with its sandy-brown Indiana limestone inscribed with quotes and a carved mural that captures an “Oklahoma friendship” between a Native American and a Mountain Man. It’s said to be inspired by stepped-back Mayan temples, and once you step inside, you’re greeted by a grand two-story lobby complete with a terrazzo floor showcasing a compass design, and those wagon wheel chandeliers—just wow!

In 1967, the courthouse got a modern neighbor, connected by a walkway, blending the old with the new in our ever-evolving cityscape.

On the back of this postcard, the sender wrote, “living here sure tempts us,” and honestly, I get it. There’s something about being surrounded by such rich history that makes you feel connected to the past, while living and breathing the vibrant life of today’s Oklahoma City.

So, whether you’re a history enthusiast, an architecture admirer, or just someone curious about the roots of our great city, the Oklahoma County Courthouse is a must-see. It’s not just a building; it’s a story of progress, resilience, and the unyielding spirit of Oklahoma City. And who knows, maybe it’ll tempt you to stay a while too!

Until next time, keep exploring the hidden historical gems that make our city truly unique.

And here’s how the courthouse looks today…

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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