If you are looking for diversions with significant historic significance in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, you definitely won’t be disappointed. From the Old West to Bonnie and Clyde, to JFK to innovations in science, these southern cities are rich in history. Visitors can explore not only Texas history but also the history of the United States in general. You can experience real log cabins in a pioneer village, ride a real 1920s passenger train or stand where Lee Harvey Oswald shot John F. Kennedy. The following historic sites and attractions are not to be missed:
Even for people who weren’t alive, Nov. 22, 1963, will still be remembered as one of the saddest days in American history. This day represents the day that President John F. Kennedy was shot and killed while riding with his wife in a motorcade through Dealey Plaza in Dallas, Texas. Although there are many conspiracy theories, it is believed that Lee Harvey Oswald shot the president from a perch on the sixth floor of the Texas School Book Depository. Due to this, the floor has been transformed into a museum that honors Kennedy’s legacy and tells the assassination story in historical context. Also in this museum are memory books where visitors have recorded their own personal recollections of the event, which the museum retains for its institutional archives.
When you speak about history, you have to cover the land itself. A perfect example is the acreage known at Oakland Ranch, which was purchased from the estate of Oscar Lee Wilkinson. This property had been in his family since 1775. Purchased by Philip Walker, a Republic of Texas veteran known for his brave fighting at the Battle of San Jacinto, and given a 616-acre land grant in Shelby County, Texas. In those days you were literally paid dirt for military service. Walker sold that land and moved to Johnson County in 1855, near the current site of the main house of Oakland Ranch. In addition, there is an eight-acre lake with an island that flows into the historic Walker Springs, named after Philip. It flows 24/7, 365 days a year regardless of draught. This rare flowing spring has been used as a campground for years.
The exciting news is this historic property is for sale by auction. So grab your own piece of history with Oakland Ranch. On May 19, 2018, this estate will be sold at a luxury no-reserve auction by Supreme Auctions. The 230-acre property offers privacy, views, event venue, and resort-style living, designed to deliver a feeling of security, comfort and sense of wellbeing plus acreage for farm and ranch users. To learn more, contact Supreme Auctions at (866) 929-2243 or visit SupremeAuctions.com.
When celebrating our America history, we are often remiss in highlighting the role that women played. The Cowgirl Hall of Fame reminds us of the courage and pioneer spirit that women displayed during a trying and difficult time of the Old West, as well as modern-day. This museum honors 228 women who are artists, writers, entertainers, businesswomen, educators and even rodeo cowgirls. You will learn about women such as Sacagawea, Georgia O’Keeffe, Laura Ingalls Wilder, Annie Oakley, Dale Evans and Sandra Day O’Connor. Some of the highlights include Annie Oakley’s wedding ring and gun and Dale Evans’ saddle and suits. The library covers vast territory with over 2,000 books featuring remarkable women.
