Webster High School Added To National Register Of Historic Places

Tulsa's Webster High School has sat on historic Route 66 for nearly a century, and now the school is being recognized on Oklahoma's National Register of Historic Places.

Webster Middle and High School has sat on the same 20 acres since the 1930s. Principal Shelly Holman said in that time, the school has taken on a unique history. 

"The alumni and teaching staff were passionate about this building - we love the historic and the rich legacy of it," Holman told News on 6. 

It was built after the Great Depression and was one of the first schools in Tulsa to end segregation in the classroom. The State Historic Preservation Office also said the school is a great example of art deco style architecture.

"The wonderful thing about Webster is all of the unique architecture and the woodwork in the building, and all of the historic items and memorabilia, which we like to highlight and put a spotlight on," said Holman.

Holman said it's not just the architecture that makes the school historic, but also the people who have walked these halls through the years, including a few famous alumni. Alumni include Grammy-nominated singer Patti Page and former Oklahoma Speaker of the House, Chris Benge. 

"So many legacies and so many people who have gone through this school," Holman said. "If you go inside, we lined the hallways with alumni who have really stood out in the community, the United States, and the world."

Holman also said the school rose above other applicants for being right off historic Route 66. The school plans to celebrate the recognition and will open for tours soon.

"We continue to try and keep those traditions alive and make sure our current students are appreciating and celebrating this moment and all the history that goes along with it," Holman added. 

To learn more about the school’s designation on the Oklahoma National Register, click here.