Recently, we became empty nesters as the last of our 3 children married, moving to Tulsa, OK in the process. Now, we are bound by love to visit the new couple on a regular basis. I believe it was on the 4th or 5th trip that we ventured out in search of the Golden Driller. It was nice but not quite as large as I expected. Not that I had been misled, I just conjured up a larger version in my very generous subconscious.
The Golden Driller is a large statue and iconic landmark located in Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA. It is one of the most recognizable symbols of the city and represents the importance of the oil industry in Tulsa’s history and economy.
The Golden Driller was originally built in 1953 by the Mid-Continent Supply Company as a temporary exhibit for the International Petroleum Exposition, which was held in Tulsa that year. The statue was designed by artist Hugh Davis and stands at a height of approximately 76 feet (23 meters). It is made of steel and concrete and weighs around 43,500 pounds (19,731 kilograms).
The statue is a tribute to the oil workers and pioneers who played a significant role in the growth and prosperity of Tulsa during the early 20th century oil boom. It is modeled after an oil worker, wearing a hard hat, work boots, and overalls, with one hand resting on a drilling bit and the other holding a manila rope.
Originally intended to be a temporary display for the International Petroleum Exposition, the Golden Driller quickly became an iconic symbol for Tulsa and was beloved by the locals and visitors alike. Due to its popularity and historical significance, the statue was preserved and relocated several times within Tulsa over the years.
The Golden Driller has become more than just a representation of the oil industry; it has become a symbol of Tulsa’s identity, resilience, and pride in its history. The statue is often dressed up in various costumes to celebrate different events and holidays throughout the year, making it a vibrant and dynamic part of the city’s cultural landscape. It continues to be a popular tourist attraction and a beloved landmark for the people of Tulsa.
The term “Tulsa oil man” refers to the individuals involved in the oil industry in Tulsa, Oklahoma, particularly during the early 20th century when the city experienced a significant oil boom. The origin of the Tulsa oil man can be traced back to the discovery of oil in the area in the early 1900s, which had a profound impact on the development and growth of the city.
The discovery of oil in Tulsa occurred in 1901 when the Ida Glenn No. 1 well struck oil in nearby Red Fork (now a neighborhood within Tulsa). This discovery set off a massive oil rush, attracting thousands of entrepreneurs, investors, and speculators to the region in search of their fortune in the oil industry.
As the oil boom took off, Tulsa became a bustling center for oil exploration, production, and refining. Many individuals, both locals and newcomers, entered the oil business, becoming known as “Tulsa oil men.” These oil men were involved in various aspects of the industry, including drilling, refining, and distribution of petroleum products.
Some of the early prominent figures among the Tulsa oil men include:
- Waite Phillips: An oilman and businessman who co-founded Phillips Petroleum Company, which later became ConocoPhillips, one of the world’s largest oil and gas companies.
- J. Paul Getty: Although he was primarily based in California, J. Paul Getty was a prominent oil magnate and one of the richest men in the world during his time. He also had significant oil interests in Oklahoma, including in the Tulsa area.
- Harry Sinclair: An entrepreneur and founder of Sinclair Oil Corporation, which became one of the major oil companies in the United States.
- Frank Phillips: Co-founder of Phillips Petroleum Company, along with his brother Waite Phillips.
The wealth generated by the oil industry in Tulsa led to significant economic growth and development in the city. Lavish Art Deco buildings, mansions, and other architectural wonders were constructed, many of which still stand today and contribute to Tulsa’s unique skyline.
The term “Tulsa oil man” has since become synonymous with the historical significance of the city’s oil boom era and the influence of the oil industry on its development. The oil industry continues to be an essential part of Tulsa’s economy and heritage to this day.
