Nash Farm
Historical marker location:NASH FARM
ESTABLISHED IN 1859, THE NASH FARM CONSTITUTES ONE OF THE LAST REMAINING AGRARIAN SITES FROM THE 19TH CENTURY IN NORTH TEXAS IN THE REGION WHERE THERE WAS ONCE A PERVASIVE LANDSCAPE OF FARMSTEADS. THOMAS JEFFERSON NASH, ELIZABETH MOUSER NASH AND THEIR FIRST THREE CHILDREN MIGRATED FROM KENTUCKY TO TEXAS IN 1854, FIRST SETTLING IN DALLAS AND THEN MOVING WITHIN A FEW MONTHS TO THE GRAPEVINE VICINITY. THEY WERE JOINED BY THOMAS’ BROTHER, WILLIAM P. NASH. BY 1859, THEY SETTLED PERMANENTLY ON THIS SITE. THE ORIGINAL FARM PROPERTY CONSISTED OF 450 ACRES WITH A VARIETY OF CROPS AND ANIMALS.
DURING THE CIVIL WAR, THOMAS AND WILLIAM LEFT TO SERVE WITH CONFEDERATE TROOPS. THEY LEFT THE FARM IN THE CARE OF ELIZABETH AND THE CHILDREN; BOTH SURVIVED THE WAR AND RETURNED HOME TO ENLARGE THEIR FARM HOLDINGS. THE NASH FARMHOUSE, CONSTRUCTED IN 1869, IS A TWO-STORY I-HOUSE WITH A ONE-STORY ATTACHED PARTIAL WIDTH FRONT PORCH. THE PROPERTY ALSO BOASTS A 1907 SECONDARY GABLE-ROOFED WOOD FRAME TRANSVERSE BARN, OR CRIB BARN, A CEMETERY DATING TO 1878 AND A BRICK CISTERN DRESSED WITH A BRICK RIM AND DECORATIVE METAL CISTERN DRAW.
IN 1888, THOMAS AND ELIZABETH GAVE LAND FOR THE RIGHT OF WAY TO THE COTTON BELT RAILROAD, WHICH CONTRIBUTED TO THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF THE GRAPEVINE AREA. THE FARM REMAINED IN THE NASH FAMILY UNTIL THE 1920s. REHABILITATION OF THE PROPERTY IN 2008 RESTORED THE FARM AND ITS HISTORIC STRUCTURES, PRESERVING THEM FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS. IN 2010, THE PROPERTY WAS LISTED IN THE NATIONAL REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACES.
RECORDED TEXAS HISTORIC LANDMARK – 2014
MARKER IS PROPERTY OF THE STATE OF TEXAS
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 cattle industry played a significant role in the development of Texas, with cowboys driving cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas during the late 1800s and early 1900s.
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 condensed summary of the historical journey 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.