Fort Worth Army Air Field
Historical marker location:By January 1941, negotiations between Fort Worth civic advocates, led by Amon
G. Carter, and the U.S. Army yielded an agreement to construct an aircraft
plant near the city to build B-24 Liberator bombers. Legislation later
authorized the creation of a landing field adjacent to the completed
Consolidated Vultee Aircraft Corporation Plant No. 4 which became Tarrant
Field/Tarrant Field Airdrome. Three months after the U.S. joined World War II,
the plant was in operation and the Army moved forward to create an Air Base to
utilize this proximity between sites to facilitate B-24 crew training. This air
base opened in August 1942 and was named Fort Worth Army Air Field (FWAAF) in
May 1943, training more than 4,000 pilots between 1942 and 1944. It allowed the
city to contribute substantially to victory for the U.S. and Allied Powers.
In late January 1948, FWAAF was renamed Carswell Air Force Base in honor of
Fort Worth native and Medal of Honor recipient Major Horace S. Carswell, Jr.
The site became a key U.S. Air Force Strategic Air Command (SAC) base during
the Cold War, serving as a highly visible symbol of nuclear deterrence and
force projection. The site was the first SAC base to be equipped with the Fort
Worth-produced B-36 Peacemaker bomber and transitioned by 1959 to the legendary
B-52 Stratofortress bomber. In 1972, B-52s stationed here participated in the
most powerful SAC campaign of the Vietnam War, Operation Linebacker II. After
the end of the Cold War, Carswell AFB closed in September 1993.
In October 1994, the site reopened as Naval Air Station Fort Worth Joint
Reserve Base, supporting active duty and reserve units in the Navy, Marine
Corps, Army, Air Force, and the Texas Air National Guard. This base greatly
aided training and support of the U.S. Military during the Global War on
Terrorism and continues a long tradition of professional excellence in the
defense of the Nation. (2016)
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 of Texas was once an independent country known as the Republic of Texas. It gained independence from Mexico in 1836 and was a separate nation until it was annexed by the United States in 1845.
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.
Tarrant County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in 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.