Jenks: Through my Lens

By Elle Simons

In recent months, I’ve seen the town I’ve spent eighteen years of my life in go through enormous amounts of change. Sure, who doesn’t want a massive outlet mall or a completely revamped downtown, complete with a conveniently placed Lululemon? Personally, I’m thrilled Jenks isn’t going to be the place sped through en route to Tulsa anymore, but at the same time, I can’t shake off the fear that my once small town isn’t going to be so small anymore.

When I think about the time I’ve spent in Jenks, my mind goes straight to those moments at Veterans Park, armed with nothing but a Barbie fishing pole, and walks along the quiet banks of the Arkansas river. Jenks has always been the perfect balance--not too bustling with traffic, yet never too deserted or eerie. While many students dream of escaping their hometowns as quickly as possible, I’ve always seen Jenks as a place to put down roots. For me, it’s a community that exudes warmth and comfort, a place that anyone would be happy to call home.

Veterans Park with a used, tangled up swing and children playing in the background.

Jenks Bridge standing over the Arkansas River. The bridge was built in 1948 and replaced an old bridge that was built in 1909.

Mom and son rush across the street to escape Main Street construction traffic. Ten district was founded in 2021 and continues to implement new businesses and restaurants into Downtown Jenks.

Mounted binoculars on Riverwalk overlooking the Cityplex towers in Tulsa behind the waters of the Arkansas River.

Live music enjoyed by customers from the Las Cabos on Riverwalk

Iconic “welcome” lighthouse located at the entrance of Jenks after getting off the bridge.

Vintage sign from the Jenks Restaurant on Main Street surrounded by greenery.