National Register Listing

Farmers and Mechanics National Bank

a.k.a. Fort Worth National Bank; Continental Life; Transport Life; A. Davis Men's

714 Main St., Fort Worth, TX
Located in downtown Fort Worth at the intersection of Main and Seventh streets is the former Farmers and Mechanics National Bank Building. The 24-story building was designed by Sanguinet and Staats Architects in the Commercial style and was the tallest building in the state upon its completion in 1921. Its construction epitomized Fort Worth's prosperity during the 1920s, when the cattle industry and the burgeoning oil industry were significant contributors to the city's economy. The Farmers and Mechanics National Bank Building is eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places under Criterion A at the local level of significance in the area of commerce for its association with Fort Worth's economic boom during the 1920s and for its association with Fort Worth's banking history. The building is also eligible for listing in the NRHP under Criterion C as an excellent local example of an early twentieth-century Commercial style skyscraper designed by Sanguinet and Staats Architects, one of the state's largest and most prominent architectural firms of the early 20th century. The period of significance for this building is 1921-1952, a range that encompasses the building's date of completion through the relocation of the Fort Worth National Bank (formerly the Farmers and Mechanics National Bank).
Local significance of the building:
Commerce; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2012.

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.

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Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
The city of Austin, the state capital, is known as the live music capital of the world. It is home to many music festivals, including South by Southwest (SXSW) and the Austin City Limits Music Festival.
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Tarrant County, Texas, has a significant place in the history of the Lone Star State. The area was initially inhabited by indigenous tribes before European exploration and settlement. In the mid-19th century, the region became part of the Republic of Texas after gaining independence from Mexico.

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.

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.