Waples-Platter Buildings
a.k.a. White Swan Building;Waples-Platter Complex
2200--2211 N. Lamar St., Dallas, TXThe Waples-Platter Companies are a diversified corporation that serves Texas, Eastern New Mexico and Southern Oklahoma as manufacturers of foods and food-related products, wholesale distributors and suppliers of institutional goods and services. Since its beginning in 1872 as a commissary that followed the building of the Missouri-Kansas & Texas Railroad through the Indian Territory to Texas, Waples-Platter has grown and changed with its markets and has remained a family operation through five generations.
The original company began in 1872 with the founding of the city of Denison, a town created by the railroad as the Texas terminus for the Missouri-Kansas & Texas line. Sam Hanna and Joe Owens, who had followed the building of the Katy railroad, supplying construction crews with provisions, decided to establish their headquarters for a general merchandise store in Denison. After a visit to Denison with his sister in 1877, A.F. Platter, a dry goods clerk in Missouri, was impressed by the potential of the frontier town. He returned in 1878 to become a bookkeeper for the Hanna and Owens Co. and by 1882 had bought Owens' interest in the company.
In 1883 Platter married Fannie Waples and encouraged her father E.B. Waples and her brothers, Paul and John, to buy major interests in the business. By 1887 the two families owned the business and renamed it Waples-Platter and Co. The company was incorporated in 1891 under the name of Waples-Platter Grocery Co., with Paul Waples succeeding his father as president.
The "White Swan" label was chosen as the company's food brand in 1886 to symbolize their quality in packaging. The "white swan floating on pure water" was an image chosen to represent the high standards that Waples-Platter required of their food products. This quality was confirmed in 1906 when the new Food and Drug Act placed no new requirements on the company.
Bibliography
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1978.
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.
The Battle of San Jacinto fought on April 21, 1836, was the decisive battle of the Texas Revolution, and led to the capture of Santa Anna and the end of the conflict.
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 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.