THE WOFFORD HOME

Nestled within the historic Maple Ridge neighborhood stands an exquisite 6,000+ square foot home—an enduring testament to timeless elegance and Tulsa’s golden age of architecture. This six-bedroom, seven-bath Mediterranean Revival residence sits on over half an acre of beautifully landscaped grounds, offering a private oasis in the heart of the city.
While its exact construction date remains a bit of a mystery, tax records suggest a 1923 origin. However, court and newspaper records point to a slightly later date. Owasso Place doesn’t appear  as an official street until 1925, and this specific address, 2156 South Owasso Place, wasn’t listed  until 1931. Interestingly, a 1930 Tulsa World article references a “new home” at this location—so while we may never pin it down precisely, it’s safe to say the home was built sometime between 1928 and 1930. 
The original owners were Benjamin H. Wofford and his wife, Grace Thornton Wofford. Benjamin, an oil company owner, was part of Tulsa’s rapidly growing energy economy. Their time in the home was brief—they moved out just four years later in 1934. A vacancy followed, as was not uncommon during the economic uncertainties of the 1930s, and the house remained unoccupied until 1936. 
In 1937, the home welcomed new residents: Crayton C. Cummings and his wife, Mildred B. Cummings. Like the Woffords, Crayton worked in the oil industry. The Cummings lived there until 1939, and then, in 1940, another oil operator—Herbert Gussman—and his wife, Roseline, moved in. The Gussmans stayed for two decades, leaving in 1960.
 
After a six-year vacancy, Lillie M. Roberts, the secretary-treasurer of La Mode Cleaners, took residence in 1966. She remained through 1967. By 1969, the home found its longest-term occupants: Dr. Fred C. LeMaster and his wife, Doris. Fred was an osteopath, and the LeMasters remained stewards of this remarkable home for over 50 years, up until their passing in 2020. 
Architecturally, the home is a distinctive example of Mediterranean Revival style—a popular choice during Tulsa’s oil boom era. Unlike the typical stucco-clad versions of this style found in coastal regions, this residence is constructed of brick, blending local materials with classic Mediterranean elements like arched doorways and decorative wrought iron accents. The style evokes a timeless charm, symbolizing luxury, leisure, and a connection to history—all values that resonated during Tulsa’s era of rapid growth and civic pride. 
Most recently, the home has been reimagined for a new generation. It was chosen as the Tulsa Home Builders Association’s 2025 Designer Showcase home—a coveted honor that brings together top local designers, remodelers, and artisans to breathe new life into historic spaces. The result is a breathtaking mix of original detail and contemporary elegance, blending past and present in a way that respects the home’s heritage while making it beautifully livable for today’s standards. 
For the first time in decades, this landmark residence is now available for purchase, listed by Elizabeth Craddock of McGraw Realtors. It stands ready for its next caretaker—someone who will not only enjoy its splendor but contribute to its ongoing story. 
Do you live in a historic home with a story waiting to be told? Perhaps you’ve discovered old family photos, city records, or even oral histories handed down through the years. I’d love to help bring those details to life. These stories not only honor the past but strengthen our present sense of community. And while you’re at it, don’t forget to support the **Maple Ridge Neighborhood Association**  by paying your $100 annual fee. Whether you volunteer a little or a lot, your involvement helps preserve the unique character of our neighborhood and ensures that homes like this one will  continue to be loved for generations to come. 
Questions? Want to get involved—or just want to tell me about your house?  Email us anytime at **contactus@mapleridgeneighborhood.com**