National Register Listing

Bluitt Sanitarium

2036 Commerce St., Dallas, TX
The Bluitt Building, located at the east end of downtown Dallas at 2036 Commerce Street, is a 3-story commercial building that is similar to remaining buildings from this era in downtown Dallas, and representative of a commercial building type common at the beginning of the 20h century. Constructed in 1904 with later modifications made to the primary facade, the Bluitt Building was part of the commercial development that replaced residential structures and neighborhoods on the eastern edge of downtown Dallas; this occurred in conjunction with the city's commercial expansion to the east. In conjunction with this growth, this eastern edge of downtown Dallas has experienced several distinct business concentrations from that of 'automobile row' in the 1910s and 1920s, to office supply establishments to commercial restaurant and refrigeration equipment in the 1950s and 1960s to neglect and demolition of many of its structures in the 1970s and 80s to a current resurgence of these smaller buildings. The Bluitt Buildings' tenants have been representative of these successive generations of businesses that located at the fringe of a rapidly changing downtown.

Dr. Benjamin R. Bluitt, an African American physician and surgeon, purchased this lot and constructed this building to serve as his medical offices and sanitarium. Dr. Bluitt was the first African American surgeon in Texas, and with this building, was to provide the first hospital facility for African Americans in Dallas. Dr. Bluitt occupied the building from 1904 to 1914 (with a brief absence in 1910). The building is nominated to the National Register of Historic Places under Criterion A in the area of Commerce at the local level of significance for its association with the early commercial history of downtown Dallas. It is also nominated to the National Register of Historic Places under Criterion B for its association with Dr. Bluitt, a prominent African American physician in Texas, in the area of Health/Medicine and Ethnic Heritage at the state level of significance.
Local significance of the building:
Commerce; Health/medicine; Black

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2006.

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.

commerce health medicine ethnic heritage black
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Dallas County, located in northern Texas, has a rich history that has contributed to its growth and significance. Here is a concise summary of its historical journey:

Established in 1846, Dallas County played a crucial role in the development of North Texas. The county's namesake, George Mifflin Dallas, was the Vice President of the United States at the time. The city of Dallas, the county seat, quickly emerged as a center for trade and commerce due to its strategic location along major transportation routes.

During the late 19th century, Dallas County experienced rapid economic growth driven by industries such as cotton, railroads, and cattle. The city of Dallas became a major hub for cotton trading, attracting business and establishing itself as a prominent financial center in the Southwest.

In the 20th century, Dallas County continued to evolve and diversify its economy. The discovery of oil in the nearby East Texas Oil Field in the early 1900s led to the development of the oil industry in the region, contributing to the county's prosperity. The county also played a significant role in the aerospace industry, hosting the headquarters of major aerospace companies and contributing to the growth of aviation technology.

Dallas County's cultural landscape reflects its vibrant and diverse population. The county is home to a wide range of cultural institutions, including museums, art galleries, theaters, and music venues. Dallas County also played a notable role in the civil rights movement, with important milestones in the fight for equality and integration.

Today, Dallas County stands as a major economic and cultural center. It boasts a robust economy supported by various industries, including finance, technology, healthcare, and telecommunications. The county is known for its thriving arts scene, professional sports teams, and diverse culinary offerings.

With its rich history, economic vitality, and cultural significance, Dallas County continues to shape North Texas as a dynamic and influential region.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Dallas County, Texas.

  • Pre-19th Century: The area was originally inhabited by various indigenous tribes, including the Caddo, Wichita, and Comanche.

  • 1839: Dallas County was officially established and named after George Mifflin Dallas, the Vice President of the United States under President James K. Polk.

  • Mid-19th Century: Dallas County experienced significant growth with the establishment of Dallas as a trading post and the arrival of settlers drawn by the opportunities in trade and agriculture.

  • Late 1800s: The county prospered with the expansion of railroads, particularly the Texas and Pacific Railway and the Houston and Texas Central Railroad, which solidified Dallas as a major transportation hub.

  • Early 20th Century: Dallas County saw a surge in economic development and urbanization. Industries such as oil, cotton, banking, and manufacturing fueled the city's growth.

  • 1960s: Dallas County gained national attention due to its role in the civil rights movement. The city of Dallas was the site of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy in 1963.

  • Late 20th Century: Dallas County continued to experience rapid growth and diversification, becoming a major center for business, finance, and telecommunications. The county is known for its vibrant arts and cultural scene, including the Dallas Arts District.

  • Today, Dallas County is the second-most populous county in Texas and home to the city of Dallas, a thriving metropolitan area.