Learn About Fort Worth, Texas
Fort Worth Overview
City History
Fort Worth, located in the state of Texas, was established in 1849 as an army outpost on the Trinity River. The city was named after General William Jenkins Worth, a hero of the Mexican-American War. Over the years, Fort Worth grew into a major cattle trading center and later became known as "Cowtown" due to its thriving livestock industry. Today, Fort Worth is a vibrant city with a rich history and a diverse population.
Interesting Facts
- Fort Worth is home to the oldest stock show and rodeo in the United States, the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo.
- The city is known for its Western heritage and cowboy culture, with attractions such as the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame.
- Fort Worth is the fifth-largest city in Texas and the 13th-largest city in the United States.
- The city is part of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, one of the largest metropolitan areas in the country.
Interesting People
- Bob Schieffer, the former host of CBS News' Face the Nation, is a native of Fort Worth.
- Van Cliburn, the renowned classical pianist, was born in Fort Worth.
- TCU football coach Gary Patterson is a well-known figure in the Fort Worth community.
Top Attractions in Fort Worth
- The Fort Worth Stockyards, a historic district with Western-themed shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
- The Kimbell Art Museum, known for its collection of European and Asian art.
- Sundance Square, a vibrant downtown area with shops, restaurants, and theaters.
Top Attractions Nearby
- The Fort Worth Zoo, one of the top-ranked zoos in the country.
- The Fort Worth Botanic Garden, a beautiful oasis with themed gardens and walking trails.
- The Fort Worth Water Gardens, a unique urban park with water features and landscaping.
Population History
- In 1900, Fort Worth had a population of around 26,000 people.
- By 1950, the population had grown to over 278,000.
- Today, Fort Worth has a population of over 900,000 residents.
Geography
Fort Worth is located in North Texas, about 30 miles west of Dallas. The city is situated on the Trinity River and is known for its rolling hills and prairies. Fort Worth has a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters.
Economy
Fort Worth's economy is diverse, with major industries including aerospace, defense, manufacturing, and transportation. The city is home to several Fortune 500 companies, including American Airlines and Lockheed Martin. Tourism is also a significant economic driver, with millions of visitors flocking to Fort Worth each year.
Culture
Fort Worth is known for its vibrant arts and cultural scene, with numerous museums, theaters, and music venues. The city hosts several annual events, including the Main Street Arts Festival and the Fort Worth Food + Wine Festival. Fort Worth is also home to several universities and colleges, contributing to its lively and diverse cultural landscape.
Notable Landmarks
- The Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District, a 98-acre historic district with Western-themed attractions.
- The Fort Worth Water Gardens, a unique urban park designed by architect Philip Johnson.
- The Fort Worth Cultural District, home to several museums and galleries, including the Amon Carter Museum of American Art and the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth.