Our History
In the mid-1930s, a small group of intellectually curious, energetic Tulsa women had a brain-storm. They would create a special lecture series and bring nationally and internationally prominent figures from the literary and artistic worlds to Tulsa. They would offer to their lively, growing community unique opportunities to explore topics of educational and cultural interest.
In 1935, these women took their idea from "tea party" talk to reality. Tulsa Town Hall Inc. offered its first series of 8 monthly lectures in the old YWCA building. The series format was based on the traditional town halls of colonial times, gatherings which held a significant place in the history of American discourse and free speech.
From the beginning capacity of 400 in the Crystal Ballroom of the Mayo Hotel to today's modern Chapman Theater with over 1,800 members, Town Hall has grown and evolved. Biographies compiled by the staff at the Tulsa City County Library are mailed to ticket holders to supplement their information about the speakers and their subjects. A shuttle service from Boston Avenue Methodist Church has been added as an option for members to help counter the difficulties of city parking. Individual reservations for luncheons that feature "Question and Answer" time with the speakers are offered following the lectures. A classroom enrichment opportunity for school groups had been added to bring students to single lectures as a curriculum supplement.
On September 5, 2008, Tulsa Town Hall presents the first lecture of the 74th season. The series is still unique, not only for its long history in the community, but also for the easy access it provides to contemporary thinkers and the variety of topics it offers. From Henry Kissinger to Marvin Hamlisch, from Beverly Sills to Gerald Ford, from David McCullough to Bob Schieffer, Tulsa Town Hall consistently provides thought-provoking content.
That tradition continues in this the 74th season when Tulsa Town Hall speakers share their expertise on topics of educational and cultural significance. These are certain to be memorable mornings for Tulsa Town Hall subscribers!”
