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Last train to Panther City
The arrival of the railroad sparked a boom in population and business in Fort Worth. | Photo courtesy of UTA Libraries
Hey, history buffs. Pop quiz: Why is Fort Worth called Panther City? Well, it all goes back to the trains...
Fort Worth’s first train
In the early 1870s, construction of the Texas and Pacific Railway (T&P) was rocketing across the state from east to west, reaching from Longview to Eagle Ford, a town just west of Dallas.
The Panic of 1873 hit and Jay Cook & Co., the Philadelphia-based investment firm financing the railroad, went under. It took another three years to build the 30 miles of tracks to Fort Worth.
Sleeper cars
The stalled railroad project swept the feet out from under the burgeoning Fort Worth and left the streets empty — prompting the sleeping panther joke that gave our city its nickname.
A. It was the first city in Texas to host a disco rodeo B. A persistent odor known as The Great Funk in the 1990s C. Its vibrant music scene and nightlife in the 1980s D. The mayor plays funk music at every city council meeting
DFW Local Business Networking Event | 6-8 p.m. | LaunchBox Collective | $43 | Meet your next best friend and mingle over sweet cotton candy treats, juice, and exclusive giveaways, including a $100 gift card to Milk and Honey or a 30-minute mini photo session.
“The Big Trail” | 6:30 p.m. | The Modern | $5 | Join the 95th anniversary celebration of the film that introduced Marion Robert Morrison to the world as John Wayne.
Van Cliburn Piano Competition | Thursday, May 22-Saturday, June 7 | Van Cliburn Concert Hall at TCU & Bass Performance Hall | Witness elite pianists from around the globe compete across four rounds for a chance at international stardom.
Friday, May 23
Moo Moo’s & Charcuterie Board Ladies Night | 1063 E. Rosedale St. | Free | Bring your moo moo and go-to charcuterie goodies for a night of networking in a relaxed environment.
Saturday, May 24
John Wayne Day Celebration | 9 a.m.-2 p.m. | John Wayne Museum | $18+ | Celebrate this American icon with members of the Wayne family.
Sunday, May 25
Dim Sum Favorites | 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. | Central Market Fort Worth | $90 | Learn to make small plates like shumai and char sui.
Nestled in West Fort Worth, this vibrant, fast-growing community offers top-rated Aledo ISD schools, endless amenities, and stunning natural beauty. From a state-of-the-art athletic club and resort-style pools to creative spaces like the Makerspace and miles of hiking trails, there’s something for everyone at WALSH.
With homes from award-winning builders and exciting new developments on the way, WALSH is more than a neighborhood — it’s a lifestyle. Come see what makes WALSH so special.
The ISD board approved a plan to close 18 schools. The closures may save ISD about $10 million, which could go towards its literacy priorities. See which schools may close. (NBCDFW)
Development
It’s full steam ahead on the townhome complex slated for southwest Fort Worth. The city council just approved zoning changes for ~33 acres currently owned by Crowley ISD on the west side of Granbury Road. The development will also include a new traffic signal at the Appalachian Way intersection. (Fort Worth Report)
Drink
Are you thirsty?Whiskey Riot will make its debut on Saturday, May 24 at The Social Space. Sip over 200 varieties of bourbon, rye, scotch, and — of course — whiskey.
Closing
In case you missed it, The Fitzgerald is closing. Its final service will be on Saturday, June 7. Chef Ben Merritt plans to step away from the restaurant scene for a bit. (Fort Worth Magazine)
Community
Speaking of nicknames and the Cliburn competition... Mayor Mattie Parker just proclaimed that Fort Worth is officially Pianotown. At least for the duration of the competition.
Weather
If you’re making plans for Memorial Day Weekend, WFAA meteorologist Greg Fields has a heads up for you — it looks like it’s going to be very warm and humid.
Listen
What would an elite season from Marcel Reed mean for Texas A&M? Get the biggest stories every day from the local experts of the Texas A&M Aggies with Locked On’s daily podcasts.
Real Estate
Looking for new digs? This modern community blends the ideal neighborhood setting with top-rated schools and endless amenities. With resort-style pools, creative maker spaces, and a growing town center, it’s no wonder WALSH is one of East Parker County’s fastest-growing communities. Come see why life’s better there.*
Number
$4,000. That’s how much an ounce of gold is expected to cost in 2026. And since gold thrives in unstable markets, its rally appears far from over.Check out gold IRAs, which let you own physical gold while taking advantage of IRA tax breaks.†*
Correction
It’s nothing major, but yesterday we invited you to sign up for Mattie Parker’s summer reading challenge. She is Fort Worth’s mayor, not major.
The Buy
A great deal from Amazon’s Memorial Day sale. Note: Prices subject to change.
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