A Stroll Back in Time: The Beginnings of Timberlane Hills
Nestled in midtown Tulsa, Timberlane Hills is a neighborhood that radiates tradition, warmth, and a sense of enduring community. While often overshadowed by larger or more recently developed districts, Timberlane Hills holds a rich and fascinating story—a story carefully preserved by generations of residents who remain fiercely proud of their neighborhood’s distinctive heritage.
The origins of Timberlane Hills date back to the post-World War II era, a transformative time for Tulsa. As families returned home and sought both refuge and new beginnings, the city was expanding outward. Timberlane Hills rose from rolling countryside, its gently winding streets and wooded lots named to echo the natural beauty that defined the area.
The name “Timberlane Hills” itself is a nod to this landscape. “Timber” referenced the mature stands of oak, maple, and elm that dotted the rolling topography, while “lane” conjured up images of quiet, shaded roads. The seemingly pastoral “hills” was descriptive, as much of the neighborhood lies on natural rises and valleys that offer dramatic views, especially along Timberlane Road and South Atlanta Avenue.
Key Milestones in Timberlane Hills’ History
- 1950s: Foundation and Early Development – The first homes in Timberlane Hills were constructed in the early 1950s. These houses were often built with sturdy brick, broad windows, and spacious yards, reflecting the optimism and architectural taste of the era. Many of these original homes still stand today, lovingly maintained or thoughtfully updated but never stripped of their mid-century character.
- Growth through the 1960s and 70s – By the 1960s, Timberlane Hills had developed a reputation as a desirable address for Tulsa professionals and their families. The homes added during this period echoed the growing diversity of American architecture, with ranch style and split-level houses lining streets like East 47th Place and South Gary Avenue.
- Establishing Community Traditions – The Timberlane Hills Neighborhood Association formed in the late 1970s, advocating for neighborhood safety, beautification, and community activities. This group remains active, organizing annual gatherings and maintaining a close-knit atmosphere.
- Historic Preservation and Modernization – In recent decades, Timberlane Hills residents have focused on balancing the preservation of the neighborhood’s original charm with thoughtful modernization. As a result, the neighborhood feels both timeless and vibrant, with updated family homes and well-kept gardens around every bend.
Landmarks and Local Institutions
Although Timberlane Hills is primarily residential, it boasts a handful of beloved landmarks that contribute to its unique flavor:
- Timberlane Triangle Park – Located at the intersection of South Atlanta Avenue and East 46th Street, this small but beautiful green space is at the heart of community life. Neighbors gather here for picnics, play dates, and the annual Easter Egg Hunt.
- Nearby Schools and Churches – The neighborhood is just a short walk or drive from Bell Elementary and Tulsa School of Arts and Sciences. The historic Trinity Episcopal Church, located nearby on South Delaware Avenue, has served as both a spiritual center and a source of support for generations.
- Classic Architecture – Some homes, particularly along Timberlane Road, are notable for their flagged stone facades, original woodwork, and manicured lawns. These houses have become informal local landmarks, prompting curious strolls and even a few house tours over the years.
- Proximity to Brookside and Gathering Place – While not within Timberlane Hills itself, Brookside’s restaurants and shops and the spectacular Gathering Place Park are just minutes away, making the neighborhood a prime location for those who want a peaceful home base with easy access to Tulsa’s highlights.
Evolution Over the Decades
Timberlane Hills is a neighborhood where the past feels present. Mature trees shade broad front lawns, and it’s not uncommon to see children riding bicycles on East 48th Street, neighbors chatting by mailboxes, or retired couples tending to bursting flowerbeds. Over the decades, families have come and gone, but the neighborhood’s sense of continuity remains strong.
Through careful stewardship, Timberlane Hills has gracefully accommodated change. Some of the most significant trends have included:
- Renovations and Restorations – Residents take pride in updating homes to suit modern comforts while preserving historic features. This blend gives the streets a charming patchwork feel, as old and new coexist seamlessly.
- A Strong, Active Community – The enduring presence of the Timberlane Hills Neighborhood Association has ensured that neighborhood concerns are addressed, and that traditions—like Halloween parades and summer block parties—are kept alive.
- Environmental Consciousness – With its abundance of mature trees, green spaces, and gardens, the neighborhood has benefited from local sustainability initiatives. Urban forestry programs and new landscaping practices align with the residents’ desire to retain the “green and growing” character that gave Timberlane Hills its name.
What Makes Timberlane Hills Special
Ask any resident, and they’ll tell you that Timberlane Hills is more than just houses and streets—it’s a community built on shared history, neighborly goodwill, and a deep love of place. Whether it’s the thrill of hearing stories from longtime residents about floods in the '70s or boisterous block parties in the 1990s, the neighborhood’s spirit is palpable.
Some of the features that make Timberlane Hills stand out include:
- Unique Topography – The gently rolling hills and winding lanes set the neighborhood apart from flatter parts of Tulsa. Each street reveals a new vista, from blooming dogwoods in spring to golden oaks in autumn.
- Pride in Preservation – Homeowners are passionate about retaining the original character of their houses, resulting in a neighborhood that feels timeless and welcoming.
- Community First – The sense of camaraderie is visible year-round, whether through shared yard projects, helping hands after storms, or simply waving to passersby on daily walks.
Conclusion
Timberlane Hills is one of those Tulsa neighborhoods that quietly but confidently endures, treasuring its origins while embracing new memories and new neighbors. Its charming streets, deep roots, and shared sense of pride make it a living piece of Tulsa’s evolving story—a neighborhood whose real landmark, perhaps, is the warmth of its community.