Arlington 150th Anniversary

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As Arlington celebrates 150 years, we want to hear from the people who helped shape it. Whether it’s a childhood memory, a favorite neighborhood spot, a family tradition or a moment that captures what Arlington means to you, your story is part of our city’s history.

Help us honor Arlington by sharing your favorite memories, photos or personal reflections. Every story adds to the rich history of our community as we celebrate this sesquicentennial milestone.

As Arlington celebrates 150 years, we want to hear from the people who helped shape it. Whether it’s a childhood memory, a favorite neighborhood spot, a family tradition or a moment that captures what Arlington means to you, your story is part of our city’s history.

Help us honor Arlington by sharing your favorite memories, photos or personal reflections. Every story adds to the rich history of our community as we celebrate this sesquicentennial milestone.

Share Your Stories

We want to hear your Arlington story! Share a favorite memory, moment or piece of history that made this city special to you.

Thank you for taking the time to share your memories and history with us as we celebrate Arlington’s 150th anniversary. Your contribution helps preserve the moments, voices, and experiences that make our city’s story truly meaningful.

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  • Share Memories on Facebook Share Memories on X (formerly Twitter) Share Memories on Linkedin Email Memories link

    Memories

    by Elin Jacks , 29 days ago

    Back in the 70’s the whole area south and east of Arkansas lane and Bowen Road was where all the kids soccer games were played on Saturday mornings. Before that the area was an airfield… see notes from other people about that (before my time). And there was a huge tree at place right behind Walgreens parking lot.

    Back in the 70’s the whole area south and east of Arkansas lane and Bowen Road was where all the kids soccer games were played on Saturday mornings. Before that the area was an airfield… see notes from other people about that (before my time). And there was a huge tree at place right behind Walgreens parking lot.

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  • Share Child Care Studio at Fielder Square on Facebook Share Child Care Studio at Fielder Square on X (formerly Twitter) Share Child Care Studio at Fielder Square on Linkedin Email Child Care Studio at Fielder Square link

    Child Care Studio at Fielder Square

    by Willie R, 29 days ago

    One of the things Child Care Associates values most about Arlington is the city’s commitment to partnership and its willingness to bring people together around a shared vision for families. Since beginning our collaboration with the City in 2023, we have witnessed firsthand how Arlington turns ideas into action.

    The Child Care Studio at Fielder Square represents more than a new facility. It represents what is possible when a community works together with purpose, trust, and a long-term commitment to its children. As Arlington celebrates its 150th anniversary, we are grateful for the opportunity to be part of a city... Continue reading

    One of the things Child Care Associates values most about Arlington is the city’s commitment to partnership and its willingness to bring people together around a shared vision for families. Since beginning our collaboration with the City in 2023, we have witnessed firsthand how Arlington turns ideas into action.

    The Child Care Studio at Fielder Square represents more than a new facility. It represents what is possible when a community works together with purpose, trust, and a long-term commitment to its children. As Arlington celebrates its 150th anniversary, we are grateful for the opportunity to be part of a city that believes in investing in future generations. The relationships built through this partnership and the lasting impact of the Child Care Studio at Fielder Square will serve as a reminder that great communities are built through collaboration, shared goals, and a genuine commitment to helping families thrive.

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  • Share Favorite Arlington Memories on Facebook Share Favorite Arlington Memories on X (formerly Twitter) Share Favorite Arlington Memories on Linkedin Email Favorite Arlington Memories link

    Favorite Arlington Memories

    by RSnider, about 1 month ago

    Some of my favorite memories of Arlington are attending the July 4th Parade and seeing such a large part of the community come together to celebrate our independence. There is something special about seeing families, friends, and neighbors gather along the parade route and share in that sense of community pride.


    I also have fond memories of exploring nature at River Legacy Park when I was young, spending time outdoors and discovering the trails, wildlife, and natural beauty that make Arlington unique. Together, these memories reflect what I have always appreciated most about Arlington: its strong sense of community and... Continue reading

    Some of my favorite memories of Arlington are attending the July 4th Parade and seeing such a large part of the community come together to celebrate our independence. There is something special about seeing families, friends, and neighbors gather along the parade route and share in that sense of community pride.


    I also have fond memories of exploring nature at River Legacy Park when I was young, spending time outdoors and discovering the trails, wildlife, and natural beauty that make Arlington unique. Together, these memories reflect what I have always appreciated most about Arlington: its strong sense of community and the many opportunities it provides to connect with both people and place.

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  • Share Parades! on Facebook Share Parades! on X (formerly Twitter) Share Parades! on Linkedin Email Parades! link

    Parades!

    by Claudia Aicardi, about 1 month ago
    Arlington has the best 4th of July Independence Day Parade! I have been fortunate enough to only be a spectator but to be in the parade the last 3 years. This year was of course one of the best years in the parades history celebrating its 150th and the 250 birthday of our great nation! A-1 Little John Site Services was able to be part of history as a parade entry this year for the first time. It was so exciting!


    Arlington has the best 4th of July Independence Day Parade! I have been fortunate enough to only be a spectator but to be in the parade the last 3 years. This year was of course one of the best years in the parades history celebrating its 150th and the 250 birthday of our great nation! A-1 Little John Site Services was able to be part of history as a parade entry this year for the first time. It was so exciting!


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  • Share Levitt Park Concerts on Facebook Share Levitt Park Concerts on X (formerly Twitter) Share Levitt Park Concerts on Linkedin Email Levitt Park Concerts link

    Levitt Park Concerts

    by Mark Anthony , about 1 month ago
    My favorite place in Arlington has been Levitt Park Pavilion. I had the pleasure of seeing the following groups:


    Black Violin- awesome talent

    Jimmy Ray Vaughn- tremendous guitar solos

    The UTA Jazz Band - Alma Mater

    KC and the Sunshine Band

    Collective Soul

    Plus it is always cool to bring in your own food. The scenery is always on chill. Great sound system as well


    My favorite place in Arlington has been Levitt Park Pavilion. I had the pleasure of seeing the following groups:


    Black Violin- awesome talent

    Jimmy Ray Vaughn- tremendous guitar solos

    The UTA Jazz Band - Alma Mater

    KC and the Sunshine Band

    Collective Soul

    Plus it is always cool to bring in your own food. The scenery is always on chill. Great sound system as well


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  • Share A Front-Row Seat to Arlington's Growth on Facebook Share A Front-Row Seat to Arlington's Growth on X (formerly Twitter) Share A Front-Row Seat to Arlington's Growth on Linkedin Email A Front-Row Seat to Arlington's Growth link

    A Front-Row Seat to Arlington's Growth

    by Lorie Lisius, about 1 month ago

    It is nearly impossible to choose just one favorite memory from the past 43 years in Arlington. My journey here has been filled with milestones that shaped my life, from attending the University of Texas at Arlington and meeting my future husband and lifelong friends, to building a career, raising a family, and becoming deeply connected to this remarkable community.

    Perhaps my most unique and rewarding experience has been serving as General Manager of The Parks Mall at Arlington for the past... Continue reading

    It is nearly impossible to choose just one favorite memory from the past 43 years in Arlington. My journey here has been filled with milestones that shaped my life, from attending the University of Texas at Arlington and meeting my future husband and lifelong friends, to building a career, raising a family, and becoming deeply connected to this remarkable community.

    Perhaps my most unique and rewarding experience has been serving as General Manager of The Parks Mall at Arlington for the past 36 years. During that time, I have had a front-row seat to the mall's evolution and Arlington's growth. The Parks Mall has transformed with the addition of three department stores, a 400,000-square-foot expansion featuring an ice rink, carousel, and movie theater, as well as an enlarged food court designed to serve a growing customer base. Along the way, the property has continually reinvented itself to meet the changing needs of the community.

    The Parks has also been the backdrop for countless memorable moments. We have welcomed notable guests such as Bob Eubanks, *NSYNC, LeAnn Rimes, Justin Bieber, Selena Gomez, and numerous professional athletes. We have hosted live radio broadcasts, teen fashion events, and Santa's arrival by horse-drawn sleigh, creating experiences that brought families and friends together.

    What I am most proud of, however, is the role The Parks has played in creating meaningful memories for others. From fulfilling dreams for Make-A-Wish children and honoring veterans and cancer survivors, to celebrating marriage proposals, showcasing student art, and hosting performances by Arlington choirs & musicians, the mall has become much more than a shopping destination. It has served as a gathering place where our community comes together to celebrate, connect, and create lasting memories.

    For me, the story of Arlington is inseparable from the story of The Parks Mall. Watching both grow and thrive over the years has been a great privilege in my life.

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  • Share My First Visit To Arlington on Facebook Share My First Visit To Arlington on X (formerly Twitter) Share My First Visit To Arlington on Linkedin Email My First Visit To Arlington link

    My First Visit To Arlington

    by LF, about 1 month ago

    In 1968 my father was transferred from Lockbourne AFB in Columbus, Ohio to Carswell AFB in Ft. Worth. It was that summer my grandparents took my brother and me to Six Flags Over Texas in Arlington.

    The gondolas took you from one side of the park to the other, H.R. Pufnstuf was there, the conductor of the train yelling in his very southern accent “Geet Off” when we came to a stop, the LaSalle riverboat ride with Indians and falling trees. I remember the tree falling in front of the boat barely missing us and looking back to see the... Continue reading

    In 1968 my father was transferred from Lockbourne AFB in Columbus, Ohio to Carswell AFB in Ft. Worth. It was that summer my grandparents took my brother and me to Six Flags Over Texas in Arlington.

    The gondolas took you from one side of the park to the other, H.R. Pufnstuf was there, the conductor of the train yelling in his very southern accent “Geet Off” when we came to a stop, the LaSalle riverboat ride with Indians and falling trees. I remember the tree falling in front of the boat barely missing us and looking back to see the tree spring upright from out of the water. Who could ever forget the Log ride and Runaway Mine Train. We ended our long day with a stop at the ice cream parlor where I enjoyed the best peppermint ice cream I’d ever tasted.

    In 1992 I moved to Arlington. Over the years I’ve been blessed to make memories in Arlington and at Six Flags with my family.

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  • Share A Full‑Circle Moment on Facebook Share A Full‑Circle Moment on X (formerly Twitter) Share A Full‑Circle Moment on Linkedin Email A Full‑Circle Moment link

    A Full‑Circle Moment

    by Sam Mahrouq, about 1 month ago

    One of my most meaningful memories in Arlington was the Jordanian FIFA World Cup event at Levitt Pavilion. The City of Arlington was incredibly helpful in coordinating the event and went above and beyond to make it a special celebration of Jordanian culture and heritage. I was especially proud of the care the city took to authentically reflect and honor Jordanian traditions and heritage as we celebrated Jordan on the world stage.

    Having the opportunity to meet His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan alongside Mayor Jim Ross made the experience even more meaningful. I was born in Jordan, but... Continue reading

    One of my most meaningful memories in Arlington was the Jordanian FIFA World Cup event at Levitt Pavilion. The City of Arlington was incredibly helpful in coordinating the event and went above and beyond to make it a special celebration of Jordanian culture and heritage. I was especially proud of the care the city took to authentically reflect and honor Jordanian traditions and heritage as we celebrated Jordan on the world stage.

    Having the opportunity to meet His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan alongside Mayor Jim Ross made the experience even more meaningful. I was born in Jordan, but Arlington is where I have built my life, raised my family, and grown my businesses. To see my Jordanian heritage and my Arlington community come together during such a historic FIFA World Cup moment was something I will never forget.

    It was a true full circle experience and a wonderful example of what makes Arlington so special: a city that welcomes people, celebrates the cultures that make our community unique, and brings people together through moments as powerful as the FIFA World Cup. I am grateful to Mayor Ross, the City of Arlington, and everyone who helped make that experience possible.

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  • Share Arlington, My Home — 21 Years of Memories, Family, and Community on Facebook Share Arlington, My Home — 21 Years of Memories, Family, and Community on X (formerly Twitter) Share Arlington, My Home — 21 Years of Memories, Family, and Community on Linkedin Email Arlington, My Home — 21 Years of Memories, Family, and Community link

    Arlington, My Home — 21 Years of Memories, Family, and Community

    by Huagang (Sam) Chen, about 1 month ago

    This year marks the 150th anniversary of the City of Arlington, Texas. For me, this is much more than a celebration of a city’s history. It is a celebration of 21 years of memories, family, community, and life in a place we are proud to call home.

    In May 2005, my wife and I moved from Irving to Arlington. At the time, I was working at Alcon, and our new home was only about 10 miles from my office—a perfect location for work and family life.

    And our one-story home? That was love at first sight—for my wife! She took... Continue reading

    This year marks the 150th anniversary of the City of Arlington, Texas. For me, this is much more than a celebration of a city’s history. It is a celebration of 21 years of memories, family, community, and life in a place we are proud to call home.

    In May 2005, my wife and I moved from Irving to Arlington. At the time, I was working at Alcon, and our new home was only about 10 miles from my office—a perfect location for work and family life.

    And our one-story home? That was love at first sight—for my wife! She took one look at it and immediately said, “This is the one!” And just like that, we bought it.

    Twenty-one years later, we are still here.

    From Martin High School to West Point 🇺🇸

    There was another reason our Arlington home became especially meaningful to our family.

    We lived right next to Martin High School, where our son Frank graduated.

    After high school, Frank went on to attend the United States Military Academy at West Point. Years later, he returned to West Point—not as a student, but as an instructor.

    Today, he is a Major in the U.S. Army and teaches at West Point.

    As parents, we cannot describe how proud we are.

    Watching our son grow from a teenager walking the halls of Martin High School here in Arlington to a Major and instructor at West Point has made this little neighborhood much more than just a place where we live.

    It became part of our family history.

    Over these 21 years, we have watched Arlington grow and transform. The city has become more beautiful, the park system has expanded, and the community has become more vibrant.

    I have loved riding bicycles since I was young, and after retirement, cycling became an important part of my everyday life. Riding through Arlington’s parks, trails, and neighborhoods has given me a wonderful way to experience and appreciate this city.

    A Bicycle Ride That Led to a Mayor 🚲

    I also have a special story connecting me with Arlington Mayor Jim Ross.

    About five years ago, after I retired, I started riding my bicycle almost every day. One day, during a mayoral election, I rode my bike to a polling place and happened to meet Jim Ross there, campaigning and talking with voters.

    He greeted me warmly, shook my hand, and talked with me about his vision and plans for Arlington.

    I was deeply impressed by what I heard, so I decided right then and there to vote for him.

    And guess what?

    That vote turned out to be a pretty good one! 😄

    Jim Ross went on to become the Mayor of Arlington.

    Since then, I have had the opportunity to see firsthand how connected he is with the Arlington community.

    Last year, when the newly built ACTIV Center officially opened, Mayor Ross personally attended the grand opening and helped cut the ribbon.

    ACTIV Center, a senior activity center, quickly became a beloved place for Arlington seniors to exercise, learn, socialize, and enjoy an active retirement.

    I have learned so much at ACTIV Center and made many wonderful friends there. It has given so many of us new opportunities, new friendships, and a renewed sense of purpose after retirement.

    I was also honored to be featured in an interview there and participate in a video recording—an experience I will always remember.

    Then, in October last year, Mayor Ross personally joined ACTIV Center in launching “Walktober,” a two-month walking and wellness challenge encouraging residents to get outside, walk more, exercise regularly, and develop healthier habits.

    I was fortunate enough to participate—and even more fortunate to have a photo taken with the Mayor!

    When the Mayor Became the Waiter 🎄

    But perhaps one of my favorite memories came during the Christmas season last year.

    Mayor Jim Ross invited members of ACTIV Center to a special Christmas celebration. We gathered together for a wonderful holiday dinner featuring food from Spring Creek Barbeque, one of our favorite barbecue restaurants in the area.

    And then something happened that really touched me.

    The Mayor of Arlington was not sitting back and enjoying the dinner as a VIP.

    He was personally serving the food to the guests, carrying plates to the tables!

    Imagine that—a city mayor serving Christmas dinner to his own residents.

    Everyone was delighted. There were smiles, laughter, and plenty of happy conversations throughout the room.

    For me, that moment said more about community leadership than any speech could.

    A mayor who is willing to serve his people is a mayor who understands his people.

    From shaking my hand during a bicycle ride, to cutting the ribbon at ACTIV Center, to walking with us during Walktober, and finally serving Christmas dinner at our tables—these experiences have given me a very personal connection to our city leadership.

    The mayor loves his people, and his people love their mayor. ❤️

    Arlington Takes the World Stage ⚽️

    And then came 2026—without a doubt, one of the greatest moments in Arlington’s 150-year history.

    The FIFA World Cup came to our city, with nine World Cup matches played at AT&T Stadium.

    Fans from around the world gathered in Arlington, putting our city on the global stage.

    As an Arlington resident, I could not be more proud.

    Retirement, but Never Standing Still

    I am also incredibly fortunate to have entered a new chapter of life here after retirement.

    Retirement has not meant slowing down. Instead, it has given me more time to give back to the community.

    I have volunteered at the Arlington Museum of Art, told Chinese stories to children through the library’s online programs, and participated in volunteer and community activities at ACTIV Center.

    Cycling, art, culture, volunteering, and community service have made my retirement life more meaningful and colorful than I ever imagined.

    To celebrate Arlington’s 150th anniversary, I even wrote “Arlington, My Home” in several languages—a song expressing my love and gratitude for this wonderful city. Click link to listen the lovely songs in 8 different languages: https://huagangchen.com/song

    Twenty-one years is only a small chapter in Arlington’s 150-year history.

    But for my family, it represents a beautiful and unforgettable chapter of our own lives.

    From moving here in 2005, to falling in love with our little one-story home; from watching our son graduate from Martin High School and go on to West Point, to seeing him return there as a Major and instructor; from cycling through Arlington’s parks, to casting a vote for a future mayor; from participating in community activities to volunteering after retirement—I have come to realize something:

    A city is not simply made of buildings and roads. A city is made of the lives, memories, friendships, dreams, and contributions of ordinary people.

    Arlington is no longer simply the place where we live.

    It is our home.

    And as we celebrate 150 years of Arlington, I look forward to seeing what the next 150 years will bring.

    150 years of history.
The World Cup as a moment of glory.
A community full of heart.
And an even brighter future ahead.

    Happy 150th Birthday, Arlington! 🎉🇺🇸

    Arlington, my home! ❤️🏡🚲⚽️



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  • Share Arlington Unites!! on Facebook Share Arlington Unites!! on X (formerly Twitter) Share Arlington Unites!! on Linkedin Email Arlington Unites!! link

    Arlington Unites!!

    by Karen and Mayor Jeff Williams, about 2 months ago

    We have so many great memories that we have experienced in Arlington! One special memory was our citizens uniting to keep the Texas Rangers in 2016. Thousands of Arlington citizens united to spread the message to "Keep the Texas Rangers" and grow our local economy with O.P.M. (Other People's Money) !!! Dallas and other cities in North Texas were trying to recruit the Rangers to their city, so we had to work hard to win the Rangers over to stay in Arlington.

    Our citizens were committed and dedicated in spreading the message, and we worked as one team against the... Continue reading

    We have so many great memories that we have experienced in Arlington! One special memory was our citizens uniting to keep the Texas Rangers in 2016. Thousands of Arlington citizens united to spread the message to "Keep the Texas Rangers" and grow our local economy with O.P.M. (Other People's Money) !!! Dallas and other cities in North Texas were trying to recruit the Rangers to their city, so we had to work hard to win the Rangers over to stay in Arlington.

    Our citizens were committed and dedicated in spreading the message, and we worked as one team against the Dallas media! Once again, we proved that Arlington is "the Can Do City". The sales tax election for the funding of the new retractable roof Ballpark (Globe Life Field) passed by a large margin! Arlington citizens working together in community - forging friendships and breaking down walls, while keeping one of Arlington's greatest assets, the Texas Rangers Baseball team. This asset was a key building block in growing the Arlington Entertainment District in a big way!

    Globe Life Field was built and has become recognized as the premier Ballpark in America!! We hosted the first neutral World Series and the National Finals Rodeo in 2020, which helped Arlington to become the first major city in the nation to recover economically and physically from the COVID pandemic. Globe Life Field is now hosting over 300 events per year !!

    Our beloved Ballpark in Arlington became the first repurposed major league ballpark in the nation. The Ballpark was renamed Choctaw Stadium with expanded offices, restaurants and retail stores, while the field was converted to football field, soccer and rugby.

    The win of "Keeping the Rangers" led to landing Texas Live - the largest entertainment complex in Texas, Loews Hotels and the new Arlington Convention Center, along with luxury living units called One Rangers Way.

    All of these building blocks combined with the spirit of our citizens led to winning a 20 city national competition to become the home of The National Medal of Honor Museum! It has been recognized as one of the top 7 museums in the World. A gamechanger for Arlington!!

    Thousands of committed Arlington citizens working together united to Keep the Rangers !! This success led to the domino effect of building a world class destination in Arlington, Texas that is bringing in a record amount of O.P.M. to build our community! Way to go Arlington!!

    Karen and Mayor Jeff Williams (2015-2021)


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Page last updated: 28 Sep 2026, 09:58 PM