10 fun and interesting Fort Worth facts

1. The City of Fort Worth and the USS Fort Worth

The city of Fort Worth, Texas has a long and proud history with the United States Navy. In fact, the first naval ship of the United States was named after the city, the USS Fort Worth. The ship was commissioned in 1934 and served in the Pacific during World War II, earning five battle stars for its service. After the war, the ship was decommissioned in 1946 and eventually scrapped in 1959. The city of Fort Worth is proud to have been the namesake of the first naval ship of the United States and to have played a part in the country's naval history.

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2. The U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing in Fort Worth

Fort Worth, Texas is home to the U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing Western Currency Facility, where an astonishing 60% of the nation's paper money is printed. This facility is responsible for printing billions of dollars in currency each year, making it a vital part of the U.S. economy. The facility is located in the heart of Fort Worth, and is a major employer in the city, providing jobs to hundreds of local residents.

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3. Largest Private Civil War Collection in US: Texas' Fort Worth Museum

The Texas Civil War Museum in Fort Worth is home to the largest private Civil War collection in the United States, west of the Mississippi River. Spanning over 10,000 artifacts, the museum's collection includes uniforms, weapons, flags, photographs, and other memorabilia from the Civil War era. Visitors can explore the museum's interactive exhibits, which provide an in-depth look at the history of the conflict and its impact on the nation. With its vast collection and engaging exhibits, the Texas Civil War Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in learning more about this pivotal period in American history.

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4. The World's Only Twice-Daily Cattle Drive in Fort Worth, Texas

The city of Fort Worth, Texas is home to the world's only twice-daily cattle drive, which takes place at the Stockyards National Historic District. This unique event is a must-see for visitors to the city, as it is a living reminder of the city's rich history as a major center of the cattle industry. The cattle drive is held twice daily, at 11:30am and 4:00pm, and features a herd of Texas longhorns being driven through the streets of the Stockyards. The event is free to the public and provides a unique opportunity to experience a piece of Texas history.

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5. Modern Art Museum in Don't Miss It!

Fort Worth, Texas is home to the state's oldest museum, the Modern Art Museum, as well as the country's second largest gallery space. This impressive museum is a must-see for art lovers, boasting over 3,000 works of art from the 20th and 21st centuries. Visitors can explore the museum's permanent collection, which includes works from renowned artists such as Pablo Picasso, Jackson Pollock, and Andy Warhol, as well as rotating exhibitions from local and international artists. With its expansive gallery space, the Modern Art Museum is sure to provide an unforgettable experience for all who visit.

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6. The Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo

Since 1896, Fort Worth has been home to the South Western Exposition and Livestock Show, the oldest rodeo and stock show in the United States. This annual event is held in the Will Rogers Memorial Center and features a variety of activities, including livestock shows, rodeos, carnival rides, and live music. The show also includes a variety of vendors selling western-themed merchandise, such as cowboy hats, boots, and jewelry. The South Western Exposition and Livestock Show is a beloved tradition in Fort Worth and a great way to experience the city's western heritage.

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7. The Fort Worth Stockyards Hotel: A History of Outlawry and Adventure

The notorious outlaws Clyde and Bonnie famously sought refuge in Fort Worth's Stockyards Hotel in the 1930s, when they were desperately trying to evade the law. The hotel provided a safe haven for the couple, who were being pursued by law enforcement officers from all over the country. The Stockyards Hotel has since become a popular tourist attraction, with visitors flocking to the historic site to learn more about the daring exploits of the infamous duo.

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8. The Fort Worth Zoo: A History of the First Zoo in Texas

The Fort Worth Zoo, which opened its doors in 1909, was the first zoo to be established in the state of Texas. It has since grown to become one of the largest zoos in the United States, with over 7,000 animals from more than 500 species. The zoo is home to a variety of animals, including elephants, giraffes, lions, tigers, and more. It also features a variety of educational programs, such as the Zoo School, which offers classes for children and adults. The Fort Worth Zoo is a popular destination for families and visitors alike, and is a great way to learn about the natural world.

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9. "A President's Last Words: A Tribute to John F Kennedy"

On November 22, 1963, President John F Kennedy delivered his last public speech in Fort Worth, Texas, just hours before he left for Dallas. The speech, which was delivered to a crowd of thousands, focused on the importance of peace and unity in the United States. Kennedy's words were met with thunderous applause and the crowd was left with a sense of hope and optimism. Little did they know that this would be the last time they would hear the President's voice, as he was assassinated in Dallas later that day.

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10. The Texas Motor Speedway: An Impressive Sight to Behold

Fort Worth's Texas Motor Speedway is an impressive sight to behold, covering an area that is larger than the combined area of eight Texas Stadiums. This colossal venue can seat an incredible 154,000 spectators, making it one of the largest stadiums in the state.