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Historic Arlington

Arlington, Texas has an infamous history, home to many firsts, and has a long history of innovation. This growing city isn’t the same as it was 100 years ago or even 10! Take a look back, and see how far we’ve come and how we got here.

For almost 60 years, theMineral Well at the intersection of Center and Main Streets was a focal point for political rallies, parades and even the sale of mineral water. Water flowed through stone lions’ heads mounted on the well, and the fixture was a popular spot for tourists. Thecurrent lions head monument commemorates the historic site and Arlington's beginnings as a visitor destination. 

The Bankhead Highway, what is today part of Division Street, was one of the nation's first transcontinental highways. Named for U.S. Senator John Bankhead, an early supporter of the project, plans for the road began in 1916, and the portion through Arlington opened in 1922. The highway began in Washington, D.C., and ended in San Diego, California.  Along the way, it traveled more than 850 miles in Texas, and it connected Dallas, Arlington, and Fort Worth, among many others. There is a Texas Historical Marker at Center and Division streets across from the historic Vandergriff Building. The marker commemorates"The Bankhead Highway Through Arlington." For even more information on the Bankhead Highway, check out thisarticle from the City of Arlington. 

"Known as the “Vegas before Vegas,” Top O’ Hill Terrace was a secret hub for gambling, drinking, and all things scandalous in the 20's and 30's. Located along the Bankhead Highway and attracting high-rollers from famous to infamous, like John Wayne, Mae West, Frank Sinatra, and Bonnie and Clyde, the illicit casino had a tea room that served as a cover. Get a guided tour and explore the underground tunnels used to escape police raids.

People say everything’s bigger in Texas, but we do it best and first, too. The original Six Flags theme park opened in Arlington in August 1961 as the first regional theme park in the country. Not to name drop, but a few talented folks started off at Six Flags Over Texas, including Broadway star Betty Buckley, American Idol winner Kelly Clarkson, and singer/choreographer Todrick Hall, just to name a few.

Arlington Music Hall started as a movie theater and evolved into a mecca of music. Was Jesse’s Girl inspired here? Maybe, maybe not. But Rick Springfield has definitely rocked out here. Check their calendar for upcoming concerts and events. For paranormal investigators, story has it that their ghost-in-residence “Fred” is known to turn lights back on and roam the halls of the building. Every show is hauntingly good!

Stroll through buildings from the 1800's and a 1910 one room schoolhouse inKnapp Heritage Park. See the city’s original town site firsthand and marvel at how far Arlington has come. Less than two miles away, take in the scenic 215 acres of live oaks, orchards, and gardens at theFielder House. Built in 1914, the two-story brick home now houses the Fielder Museum and offers tours for you history lovers. For more in depth articles and to learn more about the Knapp Heritage Park and Fielder House Museum visit the Arlington Historical Society website. 

Below are just a few of the sites available to explore Arlington's History. 

For more Arlington Historic Sites check out Arlington's Local Landmarks & Historic Districts interactive map. 

For even more information on Arlington's history including the History of Baseball in Arlington, and important highlights in our timeline, visit theCity of Arlington - History of Arlington website.