On this day, October 26th, we commemorate several significant occurrences that have left a lasting impact on the Lone Star State.
In 1849, Captain William R. Montgomery established Camp Gates, located about five miles east of present-day Gatesville. This military camp was set up to combat the Indian threat, however, it was eventually closed in 1852 following the elimination of the danger.
Moving ahead to 1886, the first Dallas Exposition opened its doors in Fair Park, located in east Dallas. This event served as a precursor to the Texas State Fair and played a vital role in shaping the renowned State Fair of Texas that we know today. In fact, the site of the Dallas Exposition went on to host the 1936 Texas Centennial Exposition, further solidifying its historical significance.
In 1930, another milestone was achieved in Dallas’ Fair Park. The inaugural football game took place at the Cotton Bowl, featuring a match-up between the Southern Methodist Mustangs and the Indiana Hoosiers. The Mustangs emerged victorious, defeating the Hoosiers with a score of 27-0. This marked the beginning of a long and cherished history of football within the iconic Cotton Bowl.
Tragedy struck in 1944 when Horace S. Carswell, Jr. perished in China after his B-24 crashed into a mountain. His selflessness and bravery were recognized, and he was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor. In his honor, Fort Worth Army Airfield was renamed Carswell Air Force Base in 1948.
Fast forward to 1960 when the American League awarded an expansion franchise to Washington, DC. This franchise eventually found its home in Texas and became known as the Texas Rangers, a beloved team that has captured the hearts of baseball fans across the state.
In more recent history, 2001 saw a momentous announcement for Fort Worth’s Lockheed Martin. The defense contractor secured a staggering $200 billion contract for the “joint strike fighter,” making it the largest defense contract in history at that time. This achievement solidified Texas’ significance in the defense industry.