A Look Back At Tulsa's History As A Presidential Campaign Hot Spot

Tulsa, Oklahoma has a rich history of being a hot spot for presidential candidates during election years. From the 1940s to the 1970s, several notable political figures made their mark on the city, leaving behind a trail of historic moments and memories.

Jack Frank with TulsaFilms.com joined LeAnne Taylor to talk about who has visited Tulsa during their campaigns for president.

In September 1948, Thomas Dewey, the Republican presidential candidate, who was favored by the polls over the incumbent President Truman, visited Tulsa for his campaign. This coincided with Harry Truman's visit to the city, where they were seen driving down Boston Avenue without any security in an open-top car, showcasing a different era in presidential campaigns.

The Coliseum, located at Sixth and Elgin, was an important venue for political events until it burned down in 1952. Notably, Dwight Eisenhower was supposed to campaign at the Coliseum but had to make a last-minute change due to the fire, leading to a makeshift campaign platform at the Tulsa Airport.

Richard Nixon, then the vice president under Dwight Eisenhower, visited Greenwood and addressed civil rights issues. Nixon made another significant visit to Tulsa after becoming president, attending the opening of the Port of Catoosa in 1971. His presence highlighted the importance of the port and its role in the state's development.

Robert Kennedy, accompanied by Sen. Fannin, visited Oklahoma to inspect Native American Indian schools. Their visit shed light on the state's boarding school system at the time, providing insight into historical educational practices.

Furthermore, the city welcomed Ronald Reagan during the National Governors' Republican Conference, where it was anticipated that he would announce his presidential candidacy. Despite the speculation, Reagan did not make the announcement during his visit to Tulsa.

Vice President Hubert Humphrey's visit during a midterm campaign stirred up a massive rally, emphasizing the city's political fervor during that era.

The historical significance of Tulsa's political events cannot be understated, with each visit shaping the city's narrative. The Coliseum, in particular, played a crucial role as a gathering place for these significant events, making it an integral part of Tulsa's history.

The footage and memories preserved from these visits continue to provide valuable insights into the city's political past, making them an essential part of Tulsa's historical tapestry.