Historical Marker

Douglass and McGar Parks

Historical marker location:
301 NE 6th Street, Fort Worth, Texas
( LaGrave Field, Calhoun at Northwest 7th streets)
Marker installed: 2009
Marker size: 27" x 42"

From the late 1800's, through the 1920's, during a time of Jim Crow

segregation, Douglass and McGar parks served as recreational grounds for

African Americans in Fort Worth. In 1895 Thomas Mason, an African-American

entrepreneur, with J.D. Johnson and A. Sumlin, purchased land in the Trinity

River Bottoms. The property soon became known as Douglass Park (about 300 yards

south), named for abolitionist Frederick Douglass. That same year, the Park

hosted a Juneteenth Celebration; this became an annual event that thousands

attended. The city commissioned a special officer to patrol Douglass Park. Many

noted black churches used the property, as did the Prince Hall Masons, who

built a lodge on it. In 1918, Fort Worth's Park Board purchased Douglass park;

despite an attempt to revitalize the park, it fell into disrepair and in 1925,

the Texas Electric Service Company purchased the property and oficially closed

it.

Douglass Park led directly to the creation of another African-American Park.

Crowds who gathered at Douglass Park to watch Negro baseball teams play became

so large that the games moved to the Texas & Pacific Ballpark, which sat on a

railroad right of way across) North Main Street. The ballpark was upgraded

between 1907 and 1909 and changed names to McGar Park (McGar's Field), after

businessman Hiram McGar. Both black and white fans came to watch McGar's

wonders (later the Black Panthers) play. Industrial development, the 1922 flood

and other factors led up to the demise of the Park during the 1920's. Today, no

remnant remains of the Parks, though they continue to be remembered as vital

community institutions for Fort Worth African American Americans in the early

20th Century. (2009)

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.

In the late 19th century, Texas became known for its cattle drives, in which cowboys would move herds of cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas and other northern states. The cattle drives were dangerous and difficult work, but they played a key role in the development of the American cattle industry.
Texas random facts
Tarrant County, Texas, has a significant place in the history of the Lone Star State. The area was initially inhabited by indigenous tribes before European exploration and settlement. In the mid-19th century, the region became part of the Republic of Texas after gaining independence from Mexico.

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.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in 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.