The Renaissance Neighborhood History Project

The Signal Addition, where the property at hand is located, was established in 1923 by Miss Pearl May Alexander.   Miss Alexander was the daughter of Mr. C. P. Alexander, one of the largest property owners in Tulsa in the 20’s and 30’s.  He probably arranged for his daughter to have the property in her name since, according to the 1920 Census, she was 31 years of age and unmarried.    Mr. Jack Edmond Stegall bought a number of lots in the Signal Addition, possibly for development, but also, it turned out, for himself.    He purchased nearly the entire east side of Evanston Avenue between Twelfth  and Thirteenth  Streets. Jack Edmond Stegall Jack Stegall was one of those men who lived in the early 20 th century and blazed his own path.   According to his  granddaughter: “My grandad was a real self-made man. He was a cowboy, surveyed for the railroad, carpenter, house builder, cabinet maker and, most impressive, an antique clock hunter an...

Authors Note: The first time I saw Rocky Frisco he made an impression.  I had no idea he was a renowned musician, but I was immediately taken by his personal style, speaking voice and presence.  He wore a classic western shirt with pearl snaps tucked into jeans with boots.  I don't recall if he wore a large belt buckle but I feel certain he must have.  Although, he was of average height with a slim build, he carried himself in a way that stood out.  Probably from all the years of performing.  He was a compelling speaker with interesting points... like wanting to do away with leash laws for cats to help control the rat population.    Over the years I encountered him several times at our bi-annual neighborhood meetings and also corresponded with him a bit about the history of the neighborhood.  Some who will read this undoubtedly knew him better than I.  This post is not intended to be complete biography and I know I'm leaving out many imp...

Thomas~Foreman Historic Home Muskogee, Oklahoma ***** The Thomas-Foreman home is located at 1419 West Okmulgee Avenue in Muskogee, Oklahoma. It is operated by the Three Rivers Museum and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Let’s head to Muskogee and mosey through history along the way…. In 1897 President William McKinley appointed John Robert Thomas as the Federal District Judge to Indian Territory. A Civil War Veteran, Thomas had been an Illinois Congressman for a decade. While in congress he served on the committee of naval affairs and advocated for upgrades to the fleet becoming known as the “father of the modern Navy.” Judge Thomas and his wife had five children but only two lived beyond infancy. He was widowed, it is thought his wife died in childbirth. By 1897 he was remarried and moved his family to Indian Territory. The Thomas’ settled at the Adams House Hotel. At this time it wasn't unusual to see rules such as "No Spurs in Bed" pos...