WEATHERFORD

Population 14,739

Altitude 1,052

General

Originated in 1850s when selected as seat of Parker County. Named after Jefferson Weatherford, member of the Texas Senate when county was created. In early years town was last settlement on the Western frontier, on route of wagon trains operating between Fort Worth and Fort Belknap. southwest area of town boasts many Victorian-style residences built in late 1800s. Industries include oil field equipment, silicone and plastic products; Home of Weatherford Junior College, established in 1869, oldest continuing two year college in Southwest.

Stop by the chamber of commerce in the old Santa Fe Depot to receive a map for driving and walking tours around the city. The Chamber also has information on restaurants, accommodations and events.

FIRST MONDAY

HOLLAND LAKE PARK

OLIVER LOVING'S GRAVE

PETER PAN STATUE

SANTA FE DEPOT

Attractions

• FIRST MONDAY - Evolving from trades day held when court was in session on first Monday of each month when farmers and ranchers brought produce and livestock to town; event now features variety of "trash and treasures," produce, and still some livestock. held on Sat., Sun. preceding first Monday every month. At U.S. 80/180, three blocks east of courthouse.

• HOLLAND LAKE PARK - Municipal park is 10 acre living museum of nature with marked nature trail that explores three different ecosystems. Site of G. A. Holland's double-lob cabins which were awarded a Texas Centennial Historical marker in 1936. Playground and picnic facilities. Off Clear Lake Road exit 409 from I-20.

• OLIVER LOVING'S GRAVE - Known as "Dean of Texas Trail Drivers," Loving came to Parker County from Kentucky about 1855l. Wounded by Indians during a drive with Charles Goodnight, he died at Fort Sumner in 1867 after traveling in secret without food for five days. Loving's son and Goodnight returned his body over 600 miles by wagon for burial in Weatherford. State historical marker granted in 1977 for his grave in Greenwood Cemetery at Front and Mill Streets.

• PETER PAN STATUE - Bronze statue sculpted by artist Ronald Thomason honors Weatherford native Mary Martin who created the role of Peter Pan on Broadway. (Miss martin's childhood home is at 314 West Oak Street; not open to the public.) Statue stands in front of library at 1214 Charles Street where room contains some original musical scores, costumes, and other memorabilia on Miss Martin.

• SANTA FE DEPOT - Restored 1909 all-brick structure was one of the first in area to be built with concrete floors. Now houses chamber of commerce office and visitor center. Open Mon. Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Three blocks east of courthouse at 401 Fort Worth Street.

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This file was last modified Thursday, 12-Oct-95 01:50:29