A Brief History of The Nut House
The Nut House began more than 50 years ago, when Robert and Margie Peterson became the first Oklahoma pecan growers to receive a State Health Department license allowing growers to sell pecans directly to the public. What started as a small family operation selling fresh native pecans from the grove behind their home soon became a beloved Route 66 destination.
With the help of friends and neighbors, the Petersons built the original log cabin in 1973 entirely from pecan trees harvested on the property. The rustic cabin served as both a pecan cracking house and a tiny storefront, where visitors could purchase fresh native pecans straight from the source.
As demand grew, so did the orchard. In 1974, the Petersons purchased some paper-shell pecan varieties and expanded the grove.
In 1979, the "cracking shack" found its permanent home closer to Historic Route 66, where travelers from around the world continue to stop for fresh pecans and a taste of Oklahoma hospitality.
The Peterson family's dedication to quality was recognized in 1982 when they were honored as Pecan Growers of the Year by the Oklahoma Pecan Growers Association.
Today, while The Nut House has grown far beyond its humble beginnings, the spirit that started it all remains unchanged. Guests still find fresh Oklahoma pecans, homemade treats, friendly faces, and the warm welcome that has made The Nut House a Route 66 tradition for generations.
Not Just Nuts Any More!
Many improvements and renovations have been made since 2017. The current owners have expanded the retail area to include a larger selection of seasonal gifts, Made in Oklahoma products, Route 66 souvenirs, gourmet grocery items, over 4 dozen flavors of homemade fudge, fresh roasted nuts, and a deli which features Amish cheese, Boar's Head meats, plus soups, chicken and potato salads made from scratch.
All of The Nut House pecans, candy, fudge, and most of our gift items are also available in our online store. Customers can browse and purchase online and pickup in-store or curbside, plus we ship all over the USA and to many countries.
Our Brick-and-Mortar store is open 7 days a week to shop and dine- we hope you can visit soon!
If you haven't visited the New and Improved Nut House in a while, or think we only sell pecans and jelly, come take another look! Our deli seating is now located in spacious Pecan Hall, with plenty of room between tables and extra seating on the soundstage. We have outdoor seating on the lawn plus covered porch seating, and are happy to provide furry travelers with a doggie bowl! Our freshly-paved parking lot is large and we welcome RV's, trailers and bus tours.
We offer a complimentary charging station for guests with electric vehicles, and no stairs means all of the Nut House is wheelchair accessible.
Travelers of the Mother Road will surely appreciate the variety of Route 66 and Oklahoma souvenirs with something for every budget.
No matter the season, The Nut House gathers a huge assortment of unique gifts, decor and novelties: kitchen gadgets, home and garden decor, men's grooming, ladies' apparel, designer soaps and lotions, unique free-trade gifts from abroad; upcycled accessories, plus nostalgic toys, dolls, puzzles and games! At Christmas our "Nutcracker Sweet" gift shop features an even bigger selection of gifts, ornaments and goodies which fill an entire room!
