The Active Historian

Hey, Friend! Welcome back to another post. Today, I want to tell you about the historic Church Studio in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Let’s get started!

History

The historic Church Studio has an interesting history. Originally it was a brick building, but the current “castle stone” facade was added in the 1950s.

In 1915, the Grace Methodist Episcopal was one of the first churches opened in Tulsa.

From 1928 to 1946, the building became the First United Brethren Church.

From 1948 to 1961, it appeared in local directories as the First Evangelical United Brethren Church.

In 1961, the building became the First Church of God.

In 1972, Leon Russell purchased the building and The Church Studio was born. This building became a safe haven for artists, musicians, singers, sound engineers, and more. Many famous musical artists spent time at The Church Studio throughout the years.

Today, the building is owned by Ivan Acosta and Teresa Knox. They have focused on restoring and rehabilitating the historic building and completed the process in 2022. Now they have added a recording studio, audio engineering school, museum, and event space. You can learn more on their website, thechurchstudio.com.

I didn’t get to see the inside of the building on the day I stopped by. I drove through town on a day they were closed and just took pictures of the outside for my Oklahoma Route 66 Passport. I hope to go back and see the museum one day.

Current Photos

Pictured below is a statue of Leon Russell.

Historic Marker Transcription

“The Church Studio has been designated a National Historic Landmark – National Park Service – United States Department of the Interior. This building was erected in 1915 as Grace M.E. Church. The site’s national significance occurred in 1972 when music pioneer, Leon Russell, purchased the church and turned it into a world-renowned recording studio and home office to Shelter Records.”

Visit

304 S Trenton

Tulsa, OK 74120

Sources

“A Brief History of the Church Studio.” The Church Studio.

“The Church Studio.” Travel Oklahoma.

“The Church Studio.” Visit Tulsa.