National Register Listing

Woolworth, F. W., Building

501 Houston St., Fort Worth, TX
The F.w. Woolworth Co. Building (1926), designed by W. G. Clarkson, reflects a period of great change and growth in Fort Worth's history - the years between World War I and World War II. These years were the last major period of economic growth for the city. This building also represents a juxtaposition of newly created wealth in Fort Worth and influence on spending through national social change which led to the expansion of retail in the U.S. This included a time of great expansion for the Woolworth Company as well as other chain store organizations which were becoming well established in the United States. Woolworth's epitomized this change from home sewing and locally based retailers to national chains offering a great assortment of mass produced goods across the country at competitive prices. In June of 1925, the Fort Worth Press reported that the Fort Worth Woolworth store was to be one of the finest 5 and 10 cent stores in the south. For these reasons, the F.W. Woolworth Building is eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) under Criterion "A" as part of broad pattern of history (Commerce). This handsome Art Deco building was designed by the prominent architect Wiley G. Clarkson, head of one of the two largest architectural firms in Fort Worth during the 1920's and 1930's. Stylistically, this building responds to the changing architectural venues of the day, a transition from Classical and Beaux Arts to Art Deco. Clarkson was known for his Beaux Arts and Classical buildings, but after the Woolworth building he and his chief designer, Charles O. Chromaster, went on to design some of the finest examples of Art Deco in Texas, including the Sinclair building (1929), the Masonic Temple (1930) and the U.S. Court House (1933), all in Fort Worth. As the Woolworth building provides a transition for Clarkson from one style to the other, it is eligible for listing on the NRHP under Criterion "C" (Architecture).
Local significance of the building:
Architecture; Commerce

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1994.

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 commerce
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 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.