Cheronda Hutton-Ballard, a long-time resident of North Tulsa, recently discovered the rich history embedded within her home, leading to its formal inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places. Situated in a neighborhood close to Pine and North Peoria, Hutton-Ballard’s home, once owned by Charles and Bertha Blevins, holds significant importance in Oklahoma’s civil rights history.
For almost eighteen years, Hutton-Ballard lived in the house without fully grasping its historical significance. It wasn’t until a neighbor shared a revelation that her home was once a voting precinct, prompting her to delve deeper into its past. Learning that her house served as precinct number 3 and was utilized for voting purposes in 1946 ignited Hutton-Ballard’s determination to have it recognized on a national scale.
After months of research and collaboration with various organizations in North Tulsa, Hutton-Ballard’s efforts culminated in a milestone achievement. On March 14, the Oklahoma Historical Society officially added her home to the National Register of Historic Places, acknowledging its pivotal role in the social and economic advancement of the Black community in North Tulsa during the mid-20th century.
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Reflecting on the significance of her home, Hutton-Ballard emphasized its importance as a safe haven for African Americans to exercise their voting rights without fear of harassment or intimidation. She pays homage to the house’s legacy by displaying a bust of John F. Kennedy, the last candidate voted for within its walls, symbolizing his impact on African-American history and beyond.
Expressing her gratitude for the opportunity to preserve and share this piece of history, Hutton-Ballard recognizes the collaborative effort it took to achieve this milestone. She credits the support of her community and the generosity of the Blevins family, who entrusted her with their historic home at a young age.
Looking to the future, Hutton-Ballard envisions transforming her home into a place where history comes alive, with plans to set up voting booths to replicate the tradition of home voting. Officials note that the inclusion of her home in the National Register offers protection from destruction or alteration, ensuring its legacy endures for generations to come.
Cheronda Hutton-Ballard’s journey exemplifies the power of community, resilience, and the importance of preserving our shared history. As her home takes its place among the nation’s historic landmarks, it serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of North Tulsa and its contributions to civil rights history.
