Wharton-Scott House
1509 Pennsylvania Ave., Fort Worth, TXThe Waggoner-Wharton-Scott House, located at the end of Summit Avenue at its intersection with Pennsylvania Avenue, is significant as an outstanding example of the Georgian Revival style as it was interpreted in the Southwest by the firm of Sanguinet and Staats. Built for the soon-to-be-married Electra Waggoner, daughter of the prominent Texas cattle baron W. T. Waggoner, the mansion exemplifies the fine Georgian detailing and craftsmanship that was characteristic of the houses along the East Coast of the same period. Upon completion in 1906, the house proved successful in fulfilling the expectations of its builder. There are 18 spacious rooms, each designed with the intention of accommodating the lavish parties of its owners. Ironically, however, the rooms were never used as they had been intended. After the marriage of Electra Waggoner to A. B. Wharton in 1906, the newlyweds lived in the house at the end of Summit Avenue only a short while. The property was purchased by Winfield Scott on March 1, 1911, for ninety thousand dollars. Mr. Scott and his wife, the former Elizabeth Simmons, spent the next few months traveling throughout Europe, searching out the furnishings for their palatial home. After the expenditure of another $100,000., the mansion was ready to be inhabited. But Mr. Scott died on October 27, 1911, and his wife moved into the house alone, except for her young son, Winfield Scott, Jr. The demise of the social life at 1509 Pennsylvania Avenue can be attributed to the death of Winfield Scott, probably the wealthiest and most colorful figure in Fort Worth's "Quality Hill" society of 1911. The famous cattle baron-land speculator had built an incredible empire throughout Texas and the Southwest at the time of his death. By early 1909, Winfield Scott owned "business houses in practically every block (of downtown Fort Worth) from the court house to the Texas & Pacific passenger station. " Most famous of the buildings he commissioned Sanguinet and Staats to design is the Flatiron Building, built in 1908 and copied after its namesake in New York City. The Scotts lived in three other palatial houses in Fort Worth before moving to the house on Pennsylvania Avenue. Mrs. Scott was one of the city's leading hostesses, and her parties were legendary. However, such social extravaganza was not befitting the widow of a prominent man; and therefore life in the great house was quiet and dignified. The grounds of the estate were meticulously maintained, thereby receiving the "Yard Beautiful" award on many occasions. Upon the death of Mrs. Scott in 1938, the whole of the estate was left to Winfield Scott, Jr. He in turn sold the property to the Girls Service League in the same year for $17,500. From 1938 through the late 1960's, the estate was used as a boarding house for homeless girls. Because there had been little money for alterations, the mansion has remained virtually intact. However, the grounds have not been maintained and such picturesque amenities as the ivy-covered cistern and rose arbor have disappeared. Since the late 1960's, the house has been left vacant and unattended. The property has been rezoned "Commercial High-rise" and is presently for sale. Due to the zoning status, preservationists in Fort Worth have organized a committee entitled "Save the Scott House!" for the purpose of raising the $375,000.00 to purchase the property. The group has already been promised many of the original artifacts to display in the restored mansion in hopes of soliciting the interest of other citizens.
Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1975.
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.
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 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.