Mid-Century Modern With an Oil Field Vibe

Gillespie Drilling Company Building, 317 W. Broadway, Cushing, Oklahoma

Photo by Marilyn A. Hudson, 2019

( NRHP #12001039) is modern design of Cushing raised architect Blaine Imel and built in 1954. This mid-century is notable for the abstract if its design and the use oil field pipe to craft elements of the ornamental design.The noted designer, who had studied under Frank Lloyd Wright, was asked back to his hometown and designed some eight residences in Cushing.

According to the blog, OKC MOD, the other homes/businesses he designed in Cushing are: First National Bank, Walters House, Wantland House, Lutheran Church of our Redeemer. In Perkins, he designed the Jr and St High Schools and in Norman the Rupel Jones Theater and the Tradewinds Motel in Tulsa.

Blaine, who died in 2005, contributed greatly to the unique quality of Cushing and northeastern Oklahoma in the mid-century.

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