Charlie Christian Itinerary
Charlie Christian blossomed into a jazz icon while living in Oklahoma City’s Deep Deuce District. Commemorate the jazz great by traveling down Charlie Christian Avenue, visiting the site of his old high school and a mosaic mural built in his honor, or walking along some of the same streets Christian took on his way to play live shows in Deep Deuce. He revolutionized the jazz genre, so your journey wouldn’t be complete without catching live music featuring the sounds he popularized.
Oklahoma City
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Oklahoma City, OK
Stop 1: Douglass High School
In the early 1930s, Charlie Christian went to high school in what is now the heart of downtown Oklahoma City’s entertainment district. The former location of Douglass High School is located where the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark now rests.
Start from: 200 E California, Oklahoma City, OK
Distance:
Arrive at: 2 S Mickey Mantle Dr, Oklahoma City, OK
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Oklahoma City, OK
Stop 2: Charlie Christian Mosaic Mural
A mosaic mural featuring the legendary jazz musician is located at the home plate entrance to the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark. It was installed in 2000.
Start from: 2 S Mickey Mantle Dr, Oklahoma City, OK
Distance:
Arrive at: Charlie Christian Ave, Oklahoma City, OK
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Oklahoma City, OK
Stop 3: Charlie Christian Avenue
On June 5, 2007, Oklahoma City officials held a dedication ceremony and officially changed the name of Byers Ave in downtown Oklahoma City to Charlie Christian Ave.
Start from: Charlie Christian Ave, Oklahoma City, OK
Distance:
Arrive at: NE 2nd St, Oklahoma City, OK
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Oklahoma City, OK
Stop 4: Deep Deuce District
Centered around NE 2nd Street in downtown Oklahoma City, the Deep Deuce District was a regional hot spot for jazz and blues. Charlie Christian grew up in Deep Deuce and was inspired by the wide array of musical influences found throughout the district, as well as jazz greats that played in the local clubs and music venues.
Start from: NE 2nd St, Oklahoma City, OK
Distance:
Arrive at: 322 NE 2nd St, Oklahoma City, OK
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Oklahoma City, OK
Stop 5: Ruby's Grill
Charlie Christian used to play at several venues around Deep Deuce including the famous Ruby’s Grill. Ruby’s was known for hosting big bands, vaudeville acts and local jazz musicians including Charlie Christian. While the original Ruby’s Grill is long gone, the building remains and is now home to Urban Roots, a place where “great food and local art intersect.” Stop in for cocktail, Southern homestyle favorites, soul food, live music and a popular first Sunday jazz brunch.
Start from: 322 NE 2nd St, Oklahoma City, OK
Distance:
Arrive at: N Central Ave & NE 2nd St, Oklahoma City, OK
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Oklahoma City, OK
Stop 6: Charlie Christian Plaque
In the midst of Deep Deuce where Charlie Christian grew up, a memorial plaque is rooted firmly in the brick sidewalk. It proudly recounts his accomplishments, importance to the area and his contributions to jazz.
Start from: N Central Ave & NE 2nd St, Oklahoma City, OK
Distance:
Arrive at: 100 E 5th St, Edmond, OK
More to Do in Oklahoma City
Edmond
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Edmond, OK
Stop 7: UCO Jazz Lab
The legacy of Charlie Christian can still be heard in the music of local jazz musicians in Oklahoma. Catch a performance from up and coming jazz performers as well as respected veterans at the UCO Jazz Lab.
Start from: 100 E 5th St, Edmond, OK
Distance:
Arrive at: , , OK
More to Do in Edmond
Charlie Christian-Related Events
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