From my Oklahoma City postcard collection…

When I think of summertime as a child in Oklahoma City, one place immediately comes to mind — Springlake Amusement Park.

This classic old-time park had rides, games, and cotton candy galore. My absolute favorites were the Big Dipper roller coaster and the Fun House, where I would spend hours getting lost in the dizzying maze of mirrors and obstacles.

But my best memory of Springlake was attending a Beach Boys concert in the 60s. The thrill of hearing their iconic harmonies, the roar of the crowd, and the energy of that night still give me chills.

Although I’m sad that Springlake is no longer here, those memories will remain cherished in my childhood. Happy Labor Day, everyone!

A Brief History of Springlake Amusement Park

Once upon a time, a beloved amusement park in Oklahoma City was known as Springlake. It all started in 1922 when Roy Staton opened his spring-fed pond to swimmers and picnickers.

As time went on, Staton continued to add more and more attractions to the park, acquiring rides from the defunct Belle Isle Park and even constructing a ballroom.

But it wasn’t until 1929, when the Big Dipper roller coaster was added, that Springlake truly became a fixture in the community. Despite having to pay for rides and admission being free, people flocked to the park throughout the 1950s and 1960s.

In fact, the park even had the opportunity to host some of the era’s top entertainers, including Johnny Cash, The Righteous Brothers, Roy Acuff, and Conway Twitty. It’s clear that Springlake was more than just an amusement park – it was a cherished memory shared between generations.

In 1971, a race riot erupted in the city. Unfortunately, one of the casualties was the beloved amusement park that was once a source of joy and entertainment.

The park could never fully recover despite the change in ownership, poor maintenance, and the tragic fire that ensued.

It wasn’t until 1981 that the Oklahoma City Vo-Tech Board decided to purchase the property, and a new chapter began. Once home to an amusement park, the land was transformed into a vocational center for learning and development.

Although most of the original park structures are gone, one thing still stands the amphitheater, a reminder of the memories that were once made at the park.

For those who still long to relive those moments, a car from the Big Dipper and many photos of the park are on display at Metro Tech, keeping the park’s legacy alive.

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