Route 66 - Big Blue Whale
Posted by: 
beatnik
N 36° 11.609 W 095° 43.969
15S E 254272 N 4008870
It's been a must see stop on the old Mother Road since the '70s. You should stop and see it too!
Waymark Code: WM1JR
Location: Oklahoma, United States
Date Posted: 09/17/2005
Views: 192
Oklahoma may be landlocked but we have our own beloved big blue whale. It's been the center of attention for many a shutterbug traveling down the old mother road. It once served as the center of attention for a grand water park.
Believe it or not, the pond that the big blue whale lives in was once an alligator pit. Hugh S. Davis was once the director of the Tulsa Zoo in Mohawk Park. His wife Zelta, who also loved animals, convinced Hugh to build a reptile and gator farm near their home. After he left Mohawk Zoo he decided to turn the alligator pond into a water park.
Hugh had something up his sleeve for Zelta. He also apparently had a great idea for something the kids could play on at the water park. Thus the Big Blue Whale was born. Welded into place and covered in tons of concrete, the whale cost around $2000 to build. According to their family, Hugh presented the whale to Zelta on their anniversary. Quite a gift indeed.
Over the years the whale has declined into various states of disrepair. But even in its bleakest hours, faithful friends of the old 66 whale have kept it going. In 2002 Hampton/Hilton Hotels Corp gave the whale and the nearby park quite a face lift. It was part of the "Explore the Highway with Hampton, Save A Landmark" Program. They even refurbished the rest rooms for the weary traveler.
The land and the whale are still owned by the Davis family. You may see them from time to time at the park. It's free to visit but the Davis family asks that you be respectful of the property and obey all posted signs. Please don't visit at night and respect their privacy so that the Blue Whale will continue to be a sight for years to come.
After all, who couldn't love that beautiful cheesy grin. Have your picture made in the mouth of the grand whale and post it here. Just watch out for that hook!