National Register Listing

Knights of Pythias Building

a.k.a. Knights of Pythias Castle Hall

315 Main St., Fort Worth, TX
"On June 6, 1881, a procession of the Order of Knights of Pythias formed at the corner of 4th and Main Streets and marched to Weatherford Street, down Houston, Fourth Street, to Main Street, and thence to Third Street. This impressive ceremony was for the purpose of laying the corner stone of the first Pythias Castle Hall ever erected in the world, and the only Castle Hall ever dedicated by the founder of the order, Justis H. Rathbone of Washington, D. C.", said D. B. Alexander. The Encyclopedia Britannica defines the Knights of Pythias as "a fraternal and benevolent order of secret character, founded in Washington, D. C., on February 19, 1864, and chartered by a special act of Congress. In the 1950's the order maintained more than fifty grand lodges or grand domains in the a states of the United States and in the provinces of Canada.There were also about 3,000 local or subordinate lodges.(Encyclopedia Britannica, XVIII,p.804)." Today the Knights of Pythias Castle Hall in Fort Worth, Texas is the object of concerned preservationists within the dodge itself as well as within the membership of Historic Fort Worth, Inc. Both of these groups hope to restore the old Castle Hall so that it will maintain its architectural uniqueness and cultural importance in downtown Fort Worth. Members of the local lodge want to make part of their building into a museum about the international fraternal order. The Texas State Historical Survey Committee recognized Castle Hall in 1962 for its cultural and historical significance.
Local significance of the building:
Architecture; Social History

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1970.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

architecture social history
The state flower of Texas is the bluebonnet. The flower blooms in the spring and is a common sight along the highways and in fields throughout the state.
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 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.