Dallas History

From our humble beginnings as a trading post to our emergence as a global city known for our booming economy, diverse culture, and welcoming atmosphere, explore the storied history of Dallas!

Living History
Historic Dallas Landmarks and Sites
Step Back In Time
Living History
Dallas Architecture Tour
Explore Dallas Architecture

Dallas' History

Founded in 1841 by John Neely Bryan, Dallas started as a small trading post along the Trinity River. The construction of railroads in the late 19th century transformed the city into a regional center for commerce and agriculture. The discovery of oil in the early 20th century further propelled Dallas's growth, attracting major oil companies and establishing the city as a hub for banking and finance. Despite setbacks like the Great Depression, Dallas exhibited resilience and emerged as a major urban center.

The post-war period marked a phase of rapid urbanization for Dallas. The city's population surged, and the development of highways and the establishment of Dallas Love Field and Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport facilitated economic expansion and connectivity.

In recent decades, Dallas has experienced significant economic growth and urban revitalization and has become a prominent center for technology, telecommunications, healthcare, and other industries. Today, Dallas stands as one of the largest and most influential cities in the United States, known for its booming economy, diverse cultural scene, and welcoming atmosphere. It is a testament to the spirit of progress and resilience that has defined Dallas throughout its remarkable history.

Dallas Fun History Facts

1888
The Dallas Zoo, which opened in 1888, is the oldest zoo in Texas and one of the ten oldest zoos in the U.S.
The world’s first convenience store, 7‑Eleven, opened in 1927 in Dallas. The corporation is still headquartered here today.
Developed in 1931, Highland Park Village Shopping Center was America’s first planned shopping center.
The integrated circuit computer chip (which became the microchip) was invented in Dallas in 1958 by Jack Kilby, an engineer at Texas Instruments.
The Dallas Public Library permanently displays one of the original copies of the Declaration of Independence, printed on July 4, 1776, and the First Folio of William Shakespeare’s ​“Comedies, Histories & Tragedies.”
Lamar Hunt, the founder of the American Football League and son of oil tycoon H.L. Hunt, was a noted Dallas resident when he coined the term ​‘Super Bowl.’

Experience History

Hall of State at Fair Park
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Juanita Craft Civil Rights House
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Freedmen’s Cemetery Memorial
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Pioneer Plaza
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Home to the Frozen Margarita

Explore More History

George W. Bush Library
Learn More About the Bush Center
Historic Hotels
Explore Historic Dallas Hotels
Sixth Floor Museum
Explore the Life & Legacy of JFK