Dorris-Brock House
Historical marker location:DR. WILLIAM E. DORRIS (1832-1905) BROUGHT HIS FAMILY TO GRAPEVINE IN JANUARY 1871 AFTER A THREE-MONTH TRIP FROM STARKVILLE, MISSISSIPPI. DORRIS WAS A CAPTAIN IN J. B. DUNN’S COMPANY (MISSISSIPPI RANGERS) IN THE CIVIL WAR AND HIS FIRST WIFE, ELIZABETH (HARMON), DIED DURING THE WAR. ARRIVING HERE WITH HIS SECOND WIFE, MIRANDA (FERGUSON) AND CHILDREN, DORRIS PURCHASED A 37-ACRE FARM FROM A. B. COBLE, JUST NORTH OF ARCHIBALD F. LEONARD’S STORE ESTABLISHED IN 1849. THE FARM WAS IDEALLY LOCATED NEAR MOREHEAD BRANCH AND COBLE BRANCH, WHERE GOOD WATER WAS ABUNDANT.
DR. DORRIS WAS A MEMBER OF THE LOCAL MASONIC LODGE AND THE BAPTIST CHURCH, AND SERVED TWO YEARS AS A GRAPEVINE SCHOOL BOARD TRUSTEE. HIS SON THOMAS BENTON DORRIS CONTINUED THE FAMILY MEDICAL TRADITION IN GRAPEVINE FOR MORE THAN THIRTY YEARS, ALSO SERVING AS A LOCAL SURGEON FOR THE RAILROAD AND TEACHING A RED CROSS NURSING CLASS DURING WORLD WAR I. DR. WILLIAM E. DORRIS MOVED TO ROANOKE (DENTON CO.) IN 1889, AND SEVERAL PROMINENT GRAPEVINE FAMILIES OWNED THIS FARMSTEAD UNTIL JOHN WORD AND BESSIE (BUSHONG) BROCK BOUGHT THE PROPERTY IN 1905. JOHN WORD BROCK WAS A FARMER AND ALSO A MAIL CARRIER FOR TEN YEARS BY HORSE AND BUGGY. THE BROCKS RAISED TWELVE CHILDREN IN THIS HOUSE, WHICH STAYED IN THE FAMILY FOR 85 YEARS.
THE L-PLAN FARMHOUSE FEATURES A CROSS GABLE ROOF AND SHED ROOF PORCH. ITS FOLK VICTORIAN STYLING INCLUDES NARROW CLAPBOARD SIDING, TWO-OVER-TWO WOOD WINDOWS, TURNED SPINDLE PORCH SUPPORTS, DOORWAYS AND WINDOW SURROUNDS WITH FLUTED MOLDINGS AND MEDALLIONS, BEADBOARD WALLS AND TALL BASEBOARDS. THE ORIGINAL HOUSE WAS ONE ROOM DEEP; THE BROCKS EXPANDED THE HOUSE WITH A REAR ADDITION IN THE 1920s
As one of the most visible programs of the Texas Historical Commission (THC), historical markers commemorate diverse topics in Texas history, including: the history and architecture of houses, commercial and public buildings, religious congregations, and military sites; events that changed the course of local and state history; and individuals who have made lasting contributions to the state, community organizations, and businesses.
The University of Texas at Austin, founded in 1883, is one of the largest universities in the United States and has produced many notable alumni, including several U.S. presidents.
Tarrant County was established in 1849 and named after Edward H. Tarrant, a military leader during the Texas Revolution. The county experienced significant growth and development throughout the 19th century, fueled by factors such as the expansion of railroads, cattle ranching, and the discovery of oil.
During the 20th century, Tarrant County continued to flourish and adapt to changing times. It became an important hub for transportation, commerce, and industry. The county's largest city, Fort Worth, emerged as a major center for cattle trading and eventually diversified into a vibrant economic and cultural hub.
Today, Tarrant County is one of the most populous counties in Texas, encompassing Fort Worth and several other cities and communities. It boasts a diverse economy, encompassing sectors such as aerospace, healthcare, manufacturing, and technology. Tarrant County is also home to renowned educational institutions, cultural attractions, and recreational opportunities, making it a dynamic and thriving region within the state.
Tarrant County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Tarrant County, Texas.
Pre-19th Century: The area was inhabited by indigenous tribes, including the Wichita and Comanche, before European settlement.
1849: Tarrant County was officially established and named after Edward H. Tarrant, a military leader in the Republic of Texas.
1850s: Fort Worth, the county seat, began as a military outpost on the Trinity River, providing protection for settlers and serving as a stop on the Chisholm Trail cattle drive route.
Late 19th Century: The arrival of the railroad in the 1870s spurred economic growth in Fort Worth and the county. The city became a center for the cattle industry, agriculture, and trade.
20th Century: Tarrant County experienced significant urbanization and diversification. Fort Worth became a major hub for the oil and gas industry, aviation, and defense with the establishment of military bases.
Civil Rights Era: Tarrant County, like many regions in the United States, faced challenges and changes during the civil rights movement, with efforts to achieve racial equality and social progress.
Modern Times: Tarrant County continues to thrive as a major economic and cultural center in Texas. It is home to a diverse population and industries such as healthcare, finance, technology, and education.