6/23/13

The Classen Corridor: Just beyond Route 66, Kamps Court

In Oklahoma City, along the broad Classen Blvd. north and south of the juncture of NW 23rd and Classen are many historical gems. They hark back to days when this area was 'out in the country' and on the edge of the growing community.  They remind of heady expansion and opportunity and growth: all things well worth remembering as a new century dawns and continued renewal and rebirth occurs in its rediscovered neighborhoods and business districts.  They are examples of small businesses that succeeded and contributed to the development of the capitol city of Oklahoma.

Kamp's Grocery and Kamp's Courts - In 1910 two German immigrants discovered what was then the outskirts of Oklahoma City and settled down to establish business. Kamp Brothers Grocery at NW 25th and Classen Boulevard was well known for top quality groceries, deli, breads, and service.

In 1928, the  business name was used  in ads appearin local newspapers.  The image of the cute apartments solicited a short ride to see the area.  The urged people to come discover the cozy but green living space where every one had their own garden.   "Kamp Courtyard" advertized they were  bringing a new style of living along NW 25.    They actually purchased the land from Wesley Methodist who were using a building there for "overflow" classes and events.

More recently, the business transformed.  The original Kamp's moved to Bill Kamp's Meat Market at 7310 N. Western over 12 years ago and state "we are still going strong after 103 years."   The Cafe is not related to Bill Kamp who is the third generation of butchers, continuing the same business at a different location. The Midtown ("Kamps1910 Cafe."; 10 N.E. 10th ) is not related.  A new business featuring Peruvian food is now there at the corner of Classen and NW 25th.

Yet, the history lingers on along the corridor, hinting at a past worth preserving and remembering.


4 comments:

dkamp said...

I stumbled upon this article and it shows that Kamp's relocated to Midtown and you mention the 1910 Cafe. However, I would like to clarify that the original Kamp's moved to Bill Kamp's Meat Market at 7310 N. Western over 12 years ago and are still going strong after 103 years. The Cafe is not related to Bill Kamp who is the third generation of butchers, continuing the same business at a different location.

MARILYN A. HUDSON, MLIS said...

Thanks for the clarification. All I had to go one was some very vague descriptive comments on various websites.

Unknown said...

No problem, I don't want you to think we aren't still around and have all the things you remember and much more :) Find us on Facebook "Bill Kamp's Meat Market"

Anonymous said...

This is a great place to live!

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