Contemplate a place where community thrives amid tree-lined streets. This is Oak Forest in Houston. Oak Forest stands as a testament to Houston’s dynamic growth. It is a place where history and modern living intertwine.
Oak Forest’s story began in 1947. The Oak Forest Realty Corporation established it. Frank Sharp, the developer behind Sharpstown, owned the corporation. Initially, the company only built houses in Section 1. This area stretches from Golf Dr to Oak Forest Dr, and Du Barry Ln to W 43rd St. Sharp extended the development to 17 additional sections. He built streets and installed utility lines. Home construction was left to other contractors.
The first house in Oak Forest served as a sales office. It stood at the corner of Golf and Fisher Dr. Most of the first homes were sold to World War II veterans. They paid between $8,000 and $10,000. Ruth Metzger, an original homeowner, bought her house in April 1947. At that time, it was just a slab. She lived there through 2008.
Many early residents came from rural areas west of Houston. They were of Polish Texan and Czech Texan descent. Initially, Oak Forest lacked telephone service. Residents used a phone in the construction shack. It was located at Wakefield and Kinley Lane. Alternatively, they used one in Frank Sharp’s niece’s house on Wakefield. Telephone service finally arrived in mid-1948.
Sufficient land in Oak Forest was set aside for churches, parks, and schools. Areas were also reserved for commercial development. This explains the many stores along W. 43rd St. They include grocery stores, cleaners, and service stations.
When Oak Forest was first established, it had a golf course. The part north of Brickhouse Gully and west of White Oak Bayou was in the Aldine Independent School District. This land was ceded to Houston ISD in 1958. Oak Forest Elementary was built in 1951. Black Junior High School followed in 1958. Construction on Waltrip High School began in 1959. The first classes were held in the fall of 1960. Stevens Elementary was added as the area grew.
Oak Forest was originally an unincorporated area. It was annexed by Houston around 1949. Sixty years later, Oak Forest has over 5,500 homes. Its population exceeds 23,000. Oak Forest is the third largest area after Kingwood’s annexation.
Around 2000, Oak Forest began attracting “creative types”. These were people who wanted to establish families. Others could not afford Houston Heights or Montrose.
From 2005 to 2011, house sales in Oak Forest increased by an average of 5.8% annually. In 2010, the Houston Press ranked Oak Forest as one of the “Five Most Underrated Neighborhoods In Houston.”
In 2011, Oak Forest was referred to as the “new West University”. Another person called Oak Forest “like a little mini Bellaire, but with better prices.” By 2013, many families were moving into Oak Forest and nearby Garden Oaks.
Today, Oak Forest is known for its diverse community. It is also known for its convenient location. Residents enjoy easy access to major highways. They appreciate the local shops, restaurants, and parks. Oak Forest offers a peaceful yet convenient lifestyle. It is a place where neighbors become friends. Oak Forest maintains a small-town feel. It is despite its growth and proximity to the city.
Oak Forest stands as a reminder of Houston’s past. It also shows the city’s continued evolution. The community retains its charm. It provides residents with a high quality of life. As you explore Oak Forest, remember its rich history. Appreciate the community spirit that defines this special place.