EST. 1849

Fort Worth, Texas

Fort Worth, Texas has a rich history that stretches back to the mid-19th century and is deeply intertwined with the story of the American West. What began as a humble military outpost evolved into a bustling center for cattle, commerce, and culture.

1849

Early Beginnings and Founding

Fort Worth’s history officially began in 1849, when Major Ripley Arnold of the U.S. Army established an outpost along the Trinity River. This fort, named in honor of General William Jenkins Worth, was on the edge of the frontier, it was truly where the west began. Though the military abandoned the post by 1853, the settlement around it continued to grow, attracting traders, farmers, and cattlemen.

1860 - 1900

Cattle and Cowboys "Cowtown, U.S.A"

After the Civil War, the cattle industry boomed, and Fort Worth quickly became a central hub. Located on the famous Chisholm Trail, which extended from Texas to Kansas, the city earned its nickname "Cowtown" as cowboys herded cattle through town to reach northern markets.

The arrival of the Texas and Pacific Railway in 1876 solidified Fort Worth’s status as a key shipping point, bringing a rush of economic growth and establishing the city as a center of commerce. The city thrived on the cattle trade, attracting ranchers, drovers, and entrepreneurs. This era saw the rise of the Fort Worth Stockyards, which would eventually become one of the largest livestock markets in the world.

At its peak, the Stockyards became the center of Fort Worth’s economy, attracting meatpacking companies like Armour and Swift and securing the city’s reputation as a livestock powerhouse.

1900-1960

20th Century Growth and Oil Boom

As Fort Worth moved into the 20th century, it diversified beyond cattle, particularly with the discovery of oil. In 1917, oil was discovered in nearby Ranger, Texas, leading to an oil boom that significantly impacted Fort Worth’s economy. Wealth from oil brought new investment to the city, and by the 1920s, a wave of building projects created landmarks, including the Tarrant County Courthouse and Fort Worth’s city hall.

he World War II era brought even more changes to Fort Worth. With the establishment of the Consolidated Aircraft Corporation (now part of Lockheed Martin) in 1942, Fort Worth became an important manufacturing center for aircraft, producing bombers like the B-24 Liberator. The military presence grew with Carswell Air Force Base, contributing to the city’s post-war economic stability and population growth.

1960-2000

Cultural Renaissance and Modernization

In the mid-20th century, Fort Worth continued to grow and began to develop its cultural reputation. Local philanthropists, especially the influential Bass family, played a key role in funding museums, theaters, and other cultural institutions, giving rise to venues like the Amon Carter Museum of American Art, Kimbell Art Museum, and Fort Worth Opera.

The Stockyards Historic District, which had declined after the mid-century closure of the livestock market, saw a resurgence in the 1970s as a preserved cultural landmark celebrating Fort Worth’s cowboy heritage. The area became a major tourist destination and event venue, hosting the annual Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo, which began in 1896.

The late 20th and early 21st centuries saw Fort Worth expand rapidly, fueled by the oil and gas boom of the Barnett Shale, as well as ongoing corporate investment. Suburban development exploded as more people were drawn to the area’s mix of historic and modern charm, affordable living, and economic opportunity.

2000-Present

Fort Worth Today

Today, Fort Worth is the 13th-largest city in the United States and one of the fastest-growing large cities in the country. It continues to celebrate its Western roots while embracing a diverse economy centered on technology, finance, aviation, and tourism. Fort Worth remains proud of its heritage, evident in its historic Stockyards, renowned museums, and vibrant arts scene, which together reflect the city’s rich legacy and forward-looking spirit.

Fort Worth has transformed from a frontier outpost to a dynamic, modern city that honors its past, celebrates its cowboy culture, and embraces innovation, making it a unique and vital part of Texas and American history.