Turley, OK
County: Tulsa
History
Turley, Oklahoma is a small unincorporated community located in Tulsa County. The history of Turley begins in the early 1900s when the area was originally known as "Dawson," after George Dawson, an early settler who established a trading post and post office.
The construction of the Frisco Railroad in 1903 played a significant role in the growth of the community. The railroad brought people, goods, and services to the area, leading to an increase in population. As a result, the community decided to rename itself "Turley" in honor of Thomas W. Turley, a prominent local businessman.
Turley started as an agriculture-based community, with farming and ranching being the primary sources of income for its residents. The fertile soil in the area allowed for successful cultivation of crops, especially cotton, wheat, and corn. The community also had a number of dairy farms and livestock ranches that supplied milk, butter, and meat to the surrounding area.
In the 1920s, the discovery of oil in nearby areas brought a significant economic boom to Turley. Many people from different parts of the country came to the area in search of work opportunities in the new oil industry. The oil boom brought rapid growth and development to the community, with several oil wells being drilled in the vicinity.
Over the years, Turley continued to thrive as more businesses, schools, and churches were established. The community had its own school district until 1968 when it was consolidated with the Tulsa Public School District.
Despite its growth, Turley faced challenges, including the impact of the Great Depression and the decline of the oil industry in the region. However, the community remained resilient and survived these difficulties.
Today, Turley is a close-knit community with a mix of residential areas, rural landscapes, and some commercial establishments. It has retained its small-town charm while being located in close proximity to the city of Tulsa.
While Turley may not be as well-known as other cities in Oklahoma, its history is filled with stories of pioneers, farmers, and oil workers, all of whom played a vital role in shaping the community into what it is today.
Attractions
The Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area
Located along the Arkansas River, this wilderness area offers hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
The Tulsa Air and Space Museum & Planetarium
Located just a short drive from Turkey, this museum offers exhibits on the history of aviation and space exploration, as well as a planetarium for stargazing.
Gilcrease Museum
This museum in Tulsa showcases Native American and Western art, including works by renowned artists such as Frederic Remington and Thomas Moran.
Woodward Park
A popular park in Tulsa, Woodward Park features beautiful gardens, walking trails, and a large rose garden that is particularly stunning in the spring.
Oklahoma Aquarium
Located in Jenks, just south of Turkey, this aquarium houses a variety of marine life, including sharks, turtles, and sea otters. It also features interactive exhibits and a walk-through tunnel.
Tulsa Zoo
The Tulsa Zoo is home to a wide range of animals, including elephants, giraffes, big cats, and primates. It also offers educational programs and exhibits, making it a great destination for families.
Philbrook Museum of Art
Located in a beautiful mansion in Tulsa, this museum houses an extensive collection of American, European, and Native American art. The surrounding gardens and grounds are also worth exploring.
Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame
Located in Tulsa, this museum celebrates the rich jazz heritage of the state, showcasing exhibits on notable musicians, as well as live performances and events.
Tulsa Botanic Garden
This botanical garden features a variety of themed gardens, including a children's discovery garden, a Japanese garden, and a 7-acre lake. It offers a peaceful retreat from the city.
Route 66
Turkey, Oklahoma is located near the historic Route 66, which offers a nostalgic trip back in time with its roadside attractions, classic diners, and neon signs.
Climate
Turley, located in Oklahoma, has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. The region experiences four distinct seasons.
Summers in Turley are hot and humid, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-70s°F (mid-20s°C) to the high 90s°F (mid-30s°C). Heatwaves are not uncommon, with temperatures occasionally surpassing 100°F (38°C). July tends to be the hottest month of the year.
Winters in Turley are relatively mild compared to other parts of the United States. Average temperatures during the winter months range from the mid-30s°F (around 0°C) to the mid-50s°F (around 10°C). Snowfall is infrequent, and when it does occur, it is usually light and does not last long.
Spring and autumn in Turley are transitional seasons. Spring sees an increase in temperatures, with average highs ranging from the 60s°F (around 15°C) to the 80s°F (around 25°C). Rainfall is more prevalent during this time. Autumn brings cooler temperatures once again, with average highs ranging from the 60s°F (around 15°C) to the 70s°F (around 20°C). The region experiences pleasant weather conditions during both spring and fall.
Precipitation is relatively evenly distributed throughout the year in Turley. The area receives an average of around 40 inches (over 1000 millimeters) of rainfall annually, with May being the wettest month.
Overall, Turley's climate is characterized by hot summers, mild winters, and moderate rainfall throughout the year.
Neighborhoods
Turley is a small community located in Tulsa County, Oklahoma. While it is not officially recognized as a town or city, it is considered a neighborhood within the larger Tulsa metropolitan area. Here are some of the different neighborhoods within Turley:
Central Turley
This is the heart of Turley and the area where most of the community's amenities are located. It is home to a few grocery stores, small shops, and restaurants. Central Turley also has parks and recreational facilities for residents to enjoy.
North Turley
Located near the northern border of Turley, this neighborhood is primarily residential. It consists of single-family homes, some of which are older and have a rural or suburban aesthetic. North Turley is known for its quiet and peaceful atmosphere.
South Turley
The southern part of Turley is also predominantly residential, but it offers a mix of housing styles. Here, you can find everything from old farmhouses to newer modern homes. South Turley also has some local businesses and is home to more open green spaces.
East Turley
The eastern side of Turley is a mix of residential and commercial areas. This neighborhood is closer to other communities like Owasso and Tulsa, making it convenient for commuting. East Turley also has several schools and medical facilities within its vicinity.
West Turley
The western part of Turley is characterized by its more rural feel. It has a lot of open land and is surrounded by fields. West Turley is known for its tranquility and offers residents a more secluded living experience.
It's important to note that Turley is a relatively small community, and many of these neighborhoods blend seamlessly into one another. Overall, Turley is known for its tight-knit community feel and its convenient proximity to larger cities like Owasso and Tulsa.