Sapulpa, OK
On June 2, I was laid off from my advertising and marketing gig after nearly 22 years with the company. I knew it was coming. We were purchased by a larger organization last August, and I was given a one-year term to help wind down our previous efforts and help smooth the transition. My services were no longer needed sooner than planned, so I was released two months early, and I was content with that. I’d rather be unemployed in June while my kids are out of school than in August right before they go back. I’ve never had the privilege of a summer off with them, and I’m looking forward to it.
Still, 22 years is a long time, and I have a lot to process, think through, and figure out. Knowing how much I love road trips, photography, and my long desire to travel Route 66, my wife told me a couple weeks ago that she was sending me south to Tulsa. I was to fly out on June 10th, rent a car, and drive Route 66 back home. Intended to help kick off the processing, it was just what the doctor ordered. A six-day solo road trip can do a lot for the soul. I still have a lot to figure out, but I am off to a good start.
After flying into Tulsa, I traveled south to Sapulpa, OK, the furthest west I would travel on this journey. It was sunny, hot, and humid, but the charm of downtown Sapulpa kicked things off on just the right note. While their nicely decorated and restored gas pumps and signage were charming, I was particularly enamored with the vintage Coca Cola signage, which added just the right touch. To capture the downtown scenes in harsh, bright, early afternoon sun, I tried to lean into a pop art aesthetic that I think captured the vibe I felt wandering around.
Gasoline Alley Classics Inc. , a classic car memorabilia store, is probably the retail highlight of the area. They carry a range of custom decor, apparel, signage, and Route 66 souvenirs. If you’re in the area, they’re definitely worth checking out.
Next Up
After an hour or two in Sapulpa, I started my trek back towards Tulsa and made several stops along the way. Subscribe or check back for more photos from Route 66.
