North Texas State Fair and Rodeo
Historical marker location:NORTH TEXAS STATE FAIR AND RODEO
THE FIRST RECORDED FAIR IN THE DENTON AREA OPENED ON OCTOBER 15, 1885 AS THE DENTON COUNTY BLOODED STOCK AND FAIR. THROUGHOUT THE LATE 1800s AND EARLY 1900s, AREA FAIRS CONTINUED TO RECOGNIZE LOCAL LIVESTOCK AND AGRICULTURAL COMPETITORS. THE NORTH TEXAS STATE FAIR, AS IT IS KNOWN TODAY, BEGAN AS THE DENTON COUNTY FAIR IN 1928 AND WAS OFFICIALLY CHARTERED IN 1930. THAT SAME YEAR, THE DENTON COUNTY FAIR ASSOCIATION ARRANGED FOR NEW FAIRGROUNDS, A TRACT OF ABOUT 13 ACRES OF LAND ON EAST HICKORY STREET. THE FAIR CONTINUED TO GROW AND PROSPER WITH LIVESTOCK AND AGRICULTURAL ENTRIES AND A VARIETY OF ENTERTAINMENT, PARADES, MUSIC, AND SOCIAL EVENTS. IN 1942, THE FAIR WAS CANCELLED DUE TO WORLD WAR II; IT RESUMED IN 1946.
DR. W.C. KIMBROUGH, A PIONEER DENTON PHYSICIAN, SOLD THE ASSOCIATION 22 ACRES OF LAND IN NORTHEAST DENTON IN 1948 FOR $5.00. THE FAIR HAS BEEN HELD AT THIS LOCATION SINCE 1949. DURING THE LATE 1950s, SEVERAL PERMANENT BUILDINGS WERE ERECTED ON THE FAIRGROUNDS. THE OLDEST BUILDING, FAIR HALL, WAS ORIGINALLY USED AT THE WORLD WAR II GERMAN PRISONER OF WAR CAMP SITE AT CAMP HOWZE OUTSIDE OF GAINESVILLE BUT WAS MOVED TO THE SITE IN THE 1940s. THE DENTON COUNTY AGRICULTURAL FAIR ASSOCIATION VOTED TO CHANGE THE NAME TO THE NORTH TEXAS STATE FAIR IN 1958. BY THE LATE 1980s, THE FAIR BEGAN TO MOVE BEYOND THE LOCAL COWBOY COMPETITION AND BROUGHT THE FIRST PROFESSIONAL RODEO COWBOYS ASSOCIATION (PRCA) RODEO TO THE FAIR. THE RODEO AND OTHER ACTIVITIES HELD AT THE FAIR CONTINUE TO SHOWCASE THE AREA’S FARMING LEGACY AND DRAW THOUSANDS OF SPECTATORS EACH YEAR. THIS HISTORIC TRADITION SYMBOLIZES THE ECONOMIC IMPACT AND RICH HERITAGE OF THE RANCHING AND FARMING COMMUNITY IN RURAL DENTON COUNTY
As one of the most visible programs of the Texas Historical Commission (THC), historical markers commemorate diverse topics in Texas history, including: the history and architecture of houses, commercial and public buildings, religious congregations, and military sites; events that changed the course of local and state history; and individuals who have made lasting contributions to the state, community organizations, and businesses.
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.
Denton County was officially established in 1846 and named after John B. Denton, a prominent figure in Texas history. The county played a significant role in the early days of Texas statehood and witnessed the challenges and triumphs of westward expansion.
Throughout the 19th century, Denton County thrived due to the expansion of railroads and the arrival of new settlers. Agriculture, particularly the production of cotton, became a key economic driver. Educational institutions, such as the University of North Texas and Texas Woman's University, were founded in Denton County during this period, establishing a legacy of academic excellence.
In the 20th century, Denton County continued to evolve. The discovery of oil in the area brought new economic opportunities, and the county experienced further growth and urbanization. Today, Denton County is a dynamic and thriving region with a diverse economy that includes sectors such as education, healthcare, technology, and manufacturing.
Denton County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Denton County, Texas.
Native American Inhabitation: Before European settlement, Denton County was home to various Native American tribes, including the Wichita and Tonkawa.
Anglo-American Settlement: In the mid-1800s, Anglo-American settlers began to arrive, drawn by the fertile land and prospects for farming and ranching. The Peters Colony, a land grant company, played a significant role in attracting these settlers.
County Formation: Denton County was officially established in 1846, named after John B. Denton, a prominent preacher and soldier who died during the Texas Revolution.
Growth and Development: The county's growth accelerated with the arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s, leading to the establishment of towns such as Denton, Lewisville, and Frisco. Agriculture, particularly cotton farming, became a key economic driver in the region.
Education: Denton County became an educational hub with the founding of the University of North Texas (formerly known as North Texas Normal College) in 1890. The university has since grown into a major educational institution.
Modernization and Urbanization: In the 20th century, Denton County experienced suburban growth and industrial development, especially with the expansion of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. The county's population has steadily increased, and it is now one of the fastest-growing counties in Texas.