O.W. Gurley

O.W. Gurley: Architect of Black Economic Empowerment

By Chase Iseghohi

Born in 1868 in Huntsville, Alabama, Ottowa W. Gurley grew up in a post-Reconstruction America where opportunities for African Americans were severely limited. Despite these systemic barriers, Gurley was determined to create pathways for Black economic independence. His vision led him to Oklahoma, where he played a pivotal role in the development of what would become the most prosperous Black community in the nation—Greenwood, also known as “Black Wall Street.”

After relocating to Tulsa in the early 1900s, Gurley used his financial acumen and entrepreneurial spirit to purchase 40 acres of land, designating it exclusively for Black businesses and residents. At a time when racial segregation was deeply entrenched, his initiative provided African Americans with a self-sufficient economic ecosystem, free from the oppressive constraints of white-owned financial institutions and discriminatory business practices.

Gurley’s impact extended far beyond real estate. He founded hotels, schools, and churches, ensuring that Greenwood had the infrastructure necessary for long-term success. He also provided loans and business support to Black entrepreneurs who were otherwise denied access to capital. His work not only built wealth but also instilled a spirit of economic self-determination among Black residents.

However, Greenwood’s prosperity made it a target for racial violence. In 1921, the Tulsa Race Massacre decimated the community Gurley helped build. Though Greenwood was later rebuilt, the trauma of the destruction and systemic obstacles made it difficult to restore its former economic strength. Despite this, Gurley’s legacy remains a testament to the power of Black entrepreneurship and community building. His vision for economic self-sufficiency continues to inspire efforts for Black business empowerment today.