National Register Listing

Hotel Texas (Boundary Increase)

a.k.a. Hotel Texas Annex

815 Main & 815 Commerce Sts., Fort Worth, TX
The 1921 Hotel Texas in downtown Fort Worth, Tarrant County, Texas, was listed in the National Register in 1979 under Criterion A in the area of Community Planning and Development and Criterion C in the area of Architecture. Beginning in the early 1960s, Fort Worth city leaders endeavored to establish a convention industry in the city with a new convention center, construction of which began in 1966. Integral to that plan was the transformation of Hotel Texas into a larger "headquarters hotel" for the convention center. Completed in 1970, the hotel modernization and expansion project included a freestanding 230-room, 250,000 square-foot annex to the east, connected to original hotel via a pedestrian bridge across Commerce Street. This nomination amendment extends the boundary of the Hotel Texas to include the annex, which meets Criterion A in the area of Community Planning and Development, for its role as a crucial component of the city's convention center development. The period of significance for the combined hotel and annex is 1921 to 1970. The property meets Criterion Consideration G as an exceptionally significant building that represents an important private-public partnership that served to transform a portion of downtown Fort Worth from a blighted neighborhood (known as "Hell's Half Acre") into a premier convention destination. In March 2014, the National Park Service approved Part 1 of a Federal Preservation Tax Incentives application, concurring that the building is eligible for listing under these criteria.
Local significance of the building:
Exploration/settlement

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2014.

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.

inns, hotels, motels
Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
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Texas random facts
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 glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped 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.