National Register Listing

Sanger Brothers Building (1925)

a.k.a. Meacham's Department Store

515 Houston St., Fort Worth, TX
The Sanger Brothers Building, located in what was historically the shopping district of downtown Fort Worth, Texas, is eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places under Criterion A in the area of Commerce and under Criterion C in the area of Architecture, both at the local level of significance. When constructed, the building was the main downtown location for the Sanger Brothers Department Store, and it later served as both Lerner's Store and Meacham's Department Store. In recent decades, the building has housed offices, including the headquarters of the Color Tile Company. The building is significant for its association with downtown retail trends, as a commercial resource illustrating the changing dynamics and design of the downtown department store during the early and mid-twentieth century. Specifically, the building characterizes the evolution of the downtown retail establishment, designed in the early 20th century as a tripartite commercial-style building with revivalist ornament. By the mid-twentieth century, the building was perceived as tired and New York-based designer Erno Fabry was retained to redesign the interior according to a more informal mid-century aesthetic, so that the building could once again offer Fort Worth's shoppers a desirable shopping destination. The renovations allowed the building to regain its stature as one of downtown Fort Worth's most popular department stores. The period of significance begins in 1925, which corresponds with the building's original construction date, and ends in 1964, which represents the 50-year threshold for National Register eligibility. This period encompasses the continued occupation of the building by a series of important local retail merchants, illustrating significant commercial trends in the city.
Local significance of the building:
Commerce; Architecture

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.

commerce architecture
Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
Texas is also home to the world's largest honky-tonk, Billy Bob's Texas in Fort Worth. The venue covers three acres and can hold up to 6,000 people.
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.