John Hope Franklin Reconciliation Park

Historical Significance

John Hope Franklin Reconciliation Park is a 2.5-acre public space located in Tulsa, Oklahoma, at the intersection of the historic Greenwood district and downtown Tulsa. Dedicated in 2010, the park serves as a memorial to the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre and commemorates the broader history of African Americans in Oklahoma.

The park's location, bordering the once-thriving African American business district known as Black Wall Street, adds to its historical significance. In 2018, the park was designated as a Literary Landmark in honor of Dr. John Hope Franklin, a distinguished historian and scholar for whom the park is named. In 2020, it became part of the African American Civil Rights Network, further recognizing its importance in preserving and sharing the history of the civil rights movement.

Artistic Elements

The park features two main artistic elements created by sculptor Ed Dwight. The first is Hope Plaza, which includes a 16-foot granite structure surrounded by three bronze sculptures. These sculptures, based on actual photographs from the 1921 riot, depict scenes of hostility, humiliation, and hope.

The second prominent feature is the Tower of Reconciliation, a 25-foot tall memorial pillar at the center of the park. This tower illustrates the history of African Americans from their forced migration to Oklahoma through the civil rights era.

Park Design

The landscape of the park includes gently rolling lawns and two circular plazas connected by a linear path. The design creates a sense of forced perspective as visitors move between the plazas.

A peaceful healing walkway and waterfall offer a sense of calm for reflection. The waterfall symbolizes the tears of the Black community, while a wall of water represents the wall of silence that surrounded the 1921 riots.

The park is enclosed by a metal picket fence and incorporates various plantings, including deciduous trees, vines on steel arbors, and evergreens, providing shade throughout the grounds.

Educational Purpose

John Hope Franklin Reconciliation Park functions as an educational venue, providing a space for visitors to learn about and reflect on African American history in Oklahoma. It also acknowledges the experiences of Native Americans in the region.

The park includes plaques with informative text and quotes around its perimeter, offering context for the artworks and the historical events they represent. Many visitors find these educational elements help provide perspective on the tragic events that took place in Tulsa.

Visitor Experience

The park is well-maintained and offers a contemplative atmosphere where visitors can reflect on its powerful historical themes. Its location near the Greenwood Rising museum makes it an ideal complement to a more comprehensive educational experience about the area's history.

Walking tours are available by reservation, with knowledgeable guides who can tailor the experience to visitors' interests and knowledge levels.

Visitors should also note the nearby Pathway to Hope, located just west across the street behind the ballpark, which complements the reconciliation park experience but is not listed on many maps.