Visit These Historic Sites

It may look small and unassuming from the outside, but the Tarrant County Black Historical and Genealogical Society, houses the largest collection of Black artifacts from Ft. Worth on the planet. Founded by Civil Rights Activist, Educator, Business Woman and Historian, Lenora Rolla, this museum is a must visit. Rolla, the great granddaughter of two formerly enslaved people, dedicated her life to fighting for equal rights in the MetroPlex. Her story is an integral part of the history of the region and the city.

Address: 1020 E Humbolt St, Fort Worth, TX 76104

Hollywood has its walks of Fame, Fort Worth has Evans Plaza. The open air park celebrates 35 African-American community leaders for their significant contributions in business, religion, and science, in Fort Worth. Each plaque tells the story of Black excellence and achievement in the city giving tourist a history lesson in an unforgettable setting.  

1050 Evans Ave, Fort Worth, TX 76104

The Freedom Train, located at 221 W. Lancaster Avenue in Fort Worth, is an art installation by Jeff Gottfried. Situated in the outdoor area between the main lobby of the Texas & Pacific Terminal and the concourse, this artwork commemorates the history of African American railroad workers and the former “colored waiting room”. It features three backlit stainless steel silhouettes along a railroad track, representing the African American railway experience from segregation to the present, and includes plaques with historical information.

The Renaissance House is located on the original site of a Colonial Revival-style mansion built in 1900 by William “Gooseneck” McDonald. McDonald was a well-known political leader, civil rights advocate and is widely recognized as the first Black millionaire in Texas. After McDonald’s death in 1950, his wife May Pearl, married local entrepreneur C.W. Flint. The mansion was torn down, and the Flints built the current structure in 1952. The mid-century house was innovative and grand, featuring marble installations by Bill McHarg, whose marble work can also be viewed at the Kimbell Art Museum. The Flints were community and social leaders, and their home served as a gathering place for many community celebrations and events

The Renaissance House is once again a community gathering space. It is a vital hub for preserving the rich Black history and culture of Terrell Heights and promoting the health of its residents. It offers a telemedicine program, office space, a community kitchen and conference room. The House is a tribute to the contributions made by Black leaders in Fort Worth, and continues to promote the rich and diverse history of Terrell Heights by supporting community health and cohesion.

He is considered by many to be the inspiration for the Lone Ranger and is undoubtedly one of the greatest lawman in western history. Legendary Black Deputy U.S. Marshal Bass Reeves is finally getting his flowers. Reeves life story and accomplishments are chronicled at the National Multicultural Western Heritage Museum. Photographs, newspaper clippings, paintings and documents, honor this formerly enslaved cowboy and the incredible, and dangerous work he did in the Choctaw and Chickasaw nations in Oklahoma.

This is a must see stop in Fort Worth and an important part of American History that has been long neglected and buried. The true story of Law Enforcement in the West starts with Bass Reeves, don’t miss this exhibit. 

An annual event that is not to be missed is the Cowboys of Color celebration. Scheduled on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Dickies Arena hosts a rodeo competition between the most accomplished African American, Native American and Hispanic cowgirls and cowboys. Over 200 Culturally diverse athletes compete in events like, Steer wrestling, calf roping and of course, bull riding. Never forget it is Cowboys of Color that once upon a time dominated the western landscape.

The Stock Show takes place in January and February each year and plays host to two of the largest Black rodeos in the country: The Bill Pickett Invitational and Cowboys of Color. The adjoined Stockyards is also the place to do a little shopping if you want to get Western Chic or catch some musical entertainment.

The rest of the year, visit the Stockyards in what used to be downtown Fort Worth, to watch the daily cattle drive, shop, eat, drink and see one of the other touring rodeos.

This National Historic District will transport you back to the Wild West for an unforgettable visit and truly Texan experience.

As a part of their annual Black History Month celebration, Bass Hall of Fort Worth offers children’s programming that can be enjoyed by all ages. Their 2023 event regaled guests with stories of Texan Pilot Bessie Coleman, Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall, and Ms. Opal Lee: Grandmother of Juneteenth. 

A non-profit arts organization, Performing Arts Fort Worth, is responsible for the programming at Bass Hall. You can find anything from Broadway specials, to performances within the genre of Popular Entertainment, as well as a Studio Concert Series. For those who love the arts, Bass Hall has much to offer.