National Register Listing

Inspiration Point Shelter House

Roughly 250 yds. S. of 2400 blk. of Roberts Cut Off Rd., Fort Worth, TX
Located in Marion Sansom Park on top of a rock bluff facing southwest with an outstanding inspirational view of Lake Worth dam and West Texas prairies, the Inspiration Point Shelter House has been a favorite location for four generations of Fort Worth citizens for picnics, family gatherings, and lovers' retreats. Constructed in 1927, it represents an important phase of development in the recreational experiences and facilities the city offered at Lake Worth. At Inspiration Point, visitors could enjoy an unspoiled, natural setting with the added convenience of the shelter's shade, fireplace ovens, and picnic tables—and they could do so for free. The experience was like no other on Lake Worth at the time and city officials and park planners felt that providing such a place was important for residents. Designed in the Rustic Style so commonly used for park facilities in the late 1920s, the nominated property is the only one of four such structures built at Inspiration Point still standing. It is a good example of the style and is a rare intact example from the pre-Depression era in Fort Worth. The Inspiration Point Shelter House is nominated to the National Register of Historic Places at the local level of significance under Criterion A in the area of Recreation/Entertainment and Criterion C in the area of architecture.
Local significance of the building:
Architecture; Entertainment/recreation

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.

architecture houses residential buildings
Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
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.
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.