Fort Worth, Texas began with the settlements of Alton, Birdville and Grapevine in 1849. The Anadarkos, Tonkawas and Wacos were the thriving Indian tribes during this time.

The Peters Colony obtained charters to be legal homesteaders on the Fort Worth land. Because the homesteaders feared the Indian inhabitants, Johnson’s Station was built, whereby rangers would stand on duty to prevent any attacks.

When Major General William Jenkins Worth died, Colonel William S. Harney ordered Major Ripley Arnold to lead a set of troops called Company F, Second Dragon troopers. The Eighth Infantry Regiment was to join the Second Dragon troopers in protecting the colonists. Lieutenant Samuel Starr also belonged to the Second Dragon platoon. However, the Indians were not hostile. Among the first settlers were Charles Turner, Captain Ephraim Daggett and Dr. Carroll Peak. The first Fort Worth, Texas courthouse was started in 1859, but the Civil War stopped production. After the war, John Peter Smith and Captain J.C. Terrell returned. Smith became a lawyer and served as a Fort Worth, Texas major. Terrell became a wealthy property owner. T.I Courtright was the local marshal.

Forth Worth’s Sundance Square was named after the Sundance Kid. Later Fort Worth, Texas became known as Hell’s Half Acre, the Paris of the Plains and Cowtown. In 1970, Fort Worth discovered oil. Amon Carter, W.T. Waggoner and Ben E. Keith were among the first to harvest the Texas tea. Carswell Air Force Base, Convair and Bell Hellicopter provided employment for the local citizens.

Tourists swoon at the events held during the Red Steagall Cowboy Gathering and Western Swing Festival held in Fort Worth, Texas. They also delight as they witness the All Western Parade. Another enticing entertainment venue is the Texas Frontier Forts Muster. In addition, one may partake of D.A.N.C.E during Labor Day Weekend.