News

IN THIS EPISODE OF THE ATLAS OBSCURA PODCAST, we visit Space Cowboy Buck Atom, who stands watch over an old gas station in Tulsa, Oklahoma—a link to the glory days of Route 66’s Muffler Men. Listen to the full podcast.

If you consider Tulsa, Oklahoma simply "flyover country," you're woefully misguided. Discover a town that's unlike any other in terms of American history, music, pop culture, art deco architecture and Native American art – and did we mention barbecue, Latin, Asian and soul food? Artists and athletes are loving this singular city that offers Western ruggedness, Southern hospitality and Midwestern friendliness. Read the full article

The Mother Road turns 95 on Thursday! Even though she is nearing her centennial, Route 66 is just getting started. The revitalization along Tulsa’s stretch of the historic highway is nothing short of amazing. Thanks to the development of districts such as Tulsa Market District, Gateway, Kendall-Whittier, Blue Dome, Cathedral, University, Meadow Gold and Red Fork/Crystal City, Tulsa’s Route 66 is trailblazing a path that pays homage to its past while looking to the future. Read full article here »

Located in a former site of a 1950s PEMCO gas station, Buck Atom’s Cosmic Curios on 66 welcomes visitors from all over to celebrate the magic of the Mother Road with apparel, toys, souvenirs, home accessories, art, jewelry and more. Read full article.

"It's like taking the past and future and mashing it together," said Mary Beth Babcock of her new Muffler Man, Buck Atom. Unveiled on May 11, 2019, before a crowd of several hundred people including the mayor of Tulsa and Oklahoma's lieutenant governor, Buck is retro in his Muffler Man style, but trailblazing in his gestation and official blessing. In the past, Muffler Men have been modified, with an odd paint job, or a distinctive accessory, or an occasional weird head. Buck, however, is a new breed. He began in the 1960s as a Muffler Man cowboy in Calgary, Alberta, and ended up bashed and...