32. The Blue Whale

The life sized Blue Whale in Catoosa, OK, is one of the most recognized structures to be found along Route 66.  Hugh Davis built The Blue Whale as an anniversary gift to his wife Zelta back in the 1970's.  At its peak The Blue Whale was. a popular swimming. spot, drawing well over 100 locals on a hot summer day.   Join Route 66 Podcast host Anthony Arno, as he talks with Blaine Davis (78 years old)  about his fathers life long work as the director of the Tulsa Zoo, growing up with parents who appreciated the outdoors, and what prompted Hugh to construct The Blue Whale upon retirement despite not having any welding experience or working with cement.   In addition, Linda Hobbs, The Blue Whale gift shop manager and author of a children's book featuring this Oklahoma icon also joins the conversation as she talks about the importance of The Blue Whale, what it was like working with Hugh, and why Route 66 is so important for the younger generation of children who visit this popular Mother Road destination.