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What’s in a name?
What’s in a name? 15 historic street names in Fort Worth
Throckmorton Street was named after the 12th governor of Texas. | Photo by @that_ldp
Fort Worth was founded in 1849 and the city was incorporated in 1873 after growing out of a settlement and military outpost. Now that 150+ years have passed, the city and its streets are chock-full of vibrant history.
It’s safe to say that over the decades, the city has been touched by countless historical figures and happenings — many of which have shaped the names of Cowtown’s buildings, parks, and streets. In this guide, we’re delving into the history of Fort Worth’s streets — specifically how they were named.
Intersection of 6th and Throckmorton Streets in 1945.
The city’s central business district is most known for the 37 square blocks known as Sundance Square. Downtown’s high rises are interspersed with public areas like Burnett Park and the Water Gardens, as well as Sundance Square Plaza, which hosts community events year-round. Many of the downtown street names reference Texas veterans and early government officials.
Throckmorton Street — named after James Webb Throckmorton, a veteran of the Mexican War who later worked as a physician, lawyer, and politician. He served as the 12th governor of Texas from 1866-1867.
Lancaster Street — renamed for John Lynch Lancaster, the president of the Texas and Pacific Railroad in 1931. It was originally known as Front Street in the 1880s. Learn more about the major transportation hub.
Intersection of Vickery Boulevard and Hemphill Street in 1951.
The Near Southside was established as the city’s first streetcar suburb in the early 1900s. An extension of the central business district in downtown, the neighborhood fell into disrepair after World War II but has re-emerged as a popular spot for local businesses and bars.
Hemphill Street — named for John Hemphill, who served as a chief justice of the Texas Supreme Court from 1845-1858. At one time, the street was one of the most elegant avenues in town with a trolley car line.
Vickery Boulevard — named for Richard L. Vickery, a confectioner who lived in Waxahachie in the 1880s before becoming a real estate broker and property developer in Cowtown.
