Hilton Hotel
a.k.a. Plaza Hotel
1933 Main St., Dallas, TXThe hotel was constructed for Conrad N. Hilton, who operated one of the two earliest hotel chains in the state, and who went on to become the world's foremost hotel man. Opening as the Hilton Hotel, the building was his first highrise in Texas and the first structure to bear his name. Construction of the hotel marked a turning point in Hilton's long and illustrious career, as indicated in his autobiography.
The Plaza has operated continuously as a hotel since its opening. Conrad Nicholson Hilton's biographers do not mince words about his impact on the world's hotel industry. Writing in 1950 in The Man Who Bought the Waldorf, Thomas E. Dabney says, "Hilton ... is the greatest hotel operator the world has ever known." Four years later, Whitney Bolton, in The Silver Spade, calls Hilton "the world's most successful hotelier." Their assessments are based in part on the following facts. Among Hilton's holdings in the early 1950s were legendary and world-class hotels: the Waldorf-Astoria and the Plaza in New York, as well as the Palmer House and Stevens Hotel in Chicago. A few years later, he purchased the Statler chain and the Houston Shamrock for a total sum of about 87 million dollars. Their acquisition in 1954, together with his own chain, placed Hilton 50 percent ahead of the nearest competitor in the number of hotel rooms under the control of one corporation. Thus Bolton's and Dabney's 1950s assessments of Hilton's significance are not exaggerated.
Hilton's hotel career can be divided roughly into four phases. Although several patterns recur throughout his long career--from his purchase of Cisco's Mobley in 1919 until his death in 1977--each also has its own definition. The first and second phases of his hotel career involved Texas chains and span the years 1919 to 1925, then 1925 to 1937, respectively. Located in the central business district of Dallas and now known as the Plaza Hotel, the Dallas Hilton marks the commencement of the second phase of Hil- ton's career. In many ways, it represents a major shift in direction that continued during the rest of his life.
In 1923, when Hilton began thinking about building a new hotel, he was well-known in hotel circles. He had already bought and profitably sold the Mobley in Cisco (NR 1981). He had earned recognition in a publication devoted to prominent Texans as the owner of one of the two earliest hotel chains in the state. Hilton's chain was composed of a handful of hotels located largely in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. All had been purchased as pre-existing hotels, at moderate prices well under $100,000. All were somewhat shabby "dowagers", as he affectionately called them, and they were at most medium-rise in scale. Each also required considerable rehabilitation.
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1985.
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.
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.
Dallas County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history 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.