What defining chapters have sculpted Southlake’s history? From the arrival of pioneering settlers to today’s Southlake, a hub for sophisticated living and commerce, this article charts the landmark events and transformations that tell the captivating story of Southlake, Texas. Expect a discovery of the town’s roots, key developments, and insights into how Southlake has emerged as a defining cityscape within Texas. Ready to journey through time and understand the forces that have shaped Southlake’s history? Read on.
Key Takeaways
- Southlake, Texas, has experienced a rich historical evolution, from early Native American habitation and significant landmarks to the development of affluent neighborhoods, robust education systems, and growing infrastructure.
- The presence of major employers like Sabre Holdings, diverse industries like Professional Services and Health Care, and a high median household income highlights the economic prosperity of Southlake.
- Southlake’s community values are demonstrated through its commitment to education, reflected in the exceptional performance of the Carroll Independent School District and cultural exchange, evident in the Sister Cities Program and active historic preservation efforts.
Early Beginnings: Native Americans to Texian Independence
Long before Southlake was known by its present name, the Eastern Cross Timbers region, a natural landscape boundary, was utilized by Native American tribes. Plains Indians to the west and East Texas Indians found the area a rich resource for hunting and gathering. The dense woodlands posed challenges to Spanish explorers in the 18th century, who navigated their way through the ‘Grand Forest, ‘ which was marked by large trees and difficult terrain.
The distinct geography of the Cross Timbers, characterized by thin, sandy soil and woodland areas, shaped the movement and settlement patterns of the region. Wagon passages and landmarks sprouted from this challenging terrain, paving the way for the settlers who would later call this area home.
Settling Southlake: 1840s-1900
Early settlers, including W.S. Peters of Kentucky and his 19 associates, arrived in Southlake in the 1840s with a contract to bring 600 families into the area. A milestone in Southlake’s early history was the establishment of the Lonesome Dove Baptist Church in February 1846, which later influenced the founding of White’s Chapel Methodist Church. This coincided with a momentous event in Texas history – the state flag was raised, replacing the Republic of Texas flag.
Being part of Tarrant County, Southlake’s infrastructure was significantly influenced by the organization of the county’s local government in 1850. The decade that followed saw Texas secede from the United States, a move opposed by Governor Sam Houston. With the end of the Civil War in 1866, trail drives of Texas longhorn cattle passed through North Texas, including the area near what is now present-day Southlake, bringing a new dynamic to the local economy. In the heart of this historical development, TX Southlake has grown and thrived.
The late 19th century saw the end of conflicts with Native Americans in Texas, including the areas around Southlake. In 1888, Robert E. Wilson, the founder of the Jellico community, opened a general store near today’s Davis Boulevard and Southlake Boulevard, adding a cornerstone to the growing community. Though plans for a railroad from Letot, Texas, to Albuquerque, passing northwest of Grapevine, near Southlake, halted at the Jack County line in 1889, it underscored the region’s potential for connectivity.
Growth and Development: 1900-1956
Southlake experienced significant growth and development with the turn of the century. Highway 114, initially designated in 1926 as a connector between Dallas and Rhome, underwent extension and rerouting, enhancing road connectivity in the region. At the heart of Southlake’s educational growth was the Carroll School, constructed in 1919. This unique three-room T-shaped building, designed to enhance natural light and ventilation, served as the oldest public building in Southlake.
Reflecting the growing needs of the community, Carroll School, initially serving grades 1-9, later expanded to include grade 10, eventually becoming Carroll High School. Moreover, the school served as a voting location for Southlake’s incorporation, adding another feather to its historical cap.
Incorporation and Expansion: 1956-Present
Southlake, incorporated as a town in 1956, has been on a continual journey of growth and expansion. Continuing with the story of Southlake’s progression post-incorporation, we will now examine its affluent neighborhoods, dynamic economy, and city government services more closely.
Affluent Neighborhoods
Southlake’s affluence is reflected in its upscale neighborhoods and most popular shopping centers. The 1990s saw the development of The Hills of Monticello and Timarron along Southlake Boulevard, attracting residents who appreciated the blend of luxury and comfort. This trend continued into the 21st century with the development of newer luxury neighborhoods located near a famous shopping center, including a shopping center located along Southlake Boulevard:
- Clariden Ranch
- Estes Park
- Stratford Park
- Villas Del Sol
These upscale neighborhoods in the Southlake area, with their manicured lawns and stately homes, reflect the city’s wealth and high property values. They are a testament to Southlake’s continued growth and prosperity, offering residents a blend of luxury living and close-knit community spirit, all within proximity to the Solana Business Park and the town square.
Economy and Commerce
Various industries and significant employers drive Southlake’s thriving economy. Notably, Sabre Holdings, headquartered in Southlake, plays a vital role in bolstering the local economy. The Southlake economy employs approximately 13.4k people, with the largest industries including Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services, Health Care & Social Assistance, and Manufacturing.
The city’s economic prosperity is further reflected in the robust job market, with top employers contributing to a median household income exceeding $240,248 in 2019. Moreover, in 2021, Southlake’s highest-paying industries were Wholesale Trade, Information, and Finance & Insurance, offering a diverse range of opportunities for residents.
City Government and Services
Southlake’s efficient administration and service delivery are facilitated by its operation under a Council-Manager form of government. The City of Southlake offers a wide range of services to its residents, including:
- Public events
- Public safety
- Planning and development
- Engineering
- Street maintenance
- Parks operation and maintenance
And more.
These services underscore Southlake’s commitment to its residents, providing them with a safe, well-maintained, and vibrant environment. From fostering community events to ensuring public safety, the city government plays a vital role in shaping Southlake’s prosperous and harmonious community.
Education in Southlake
The community of Southlake has always placed a high value on education. The Carroll Independent School District, established in 1917, consolidated smaller rural districts, leading to the construction of Carroll School in 1919. Carroll Independent School District has earned an Exemplary rating from the Texas Education Agency and is recognized as one of the largest Exemplary school districts in Texas.
All 11 Carroll ISD campuses have been conferred an ‘Exemplary’ status, a testament to the district’s zero percent dropout rate, a 97 percent attendance rate, and assessment scores surpassing state and national averages. The district’s commitment to quality education extends beyond its boundaries, offering students residing outside its boundaries the opportunity to attend district schools through an annual Transfer Application process.
Transportation Evolution
Over the years, there has been a significant evolution in Southlake’s transportation infrastructure. In 1975, SH 114 underwent significant realignment, including extending to the New Mexico state line, indicating efforts to enhance road connectivity. The highway’s passage through several cities within the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex underscores its importance in Southlake’s regional connectivity and development.
The DFW Connector project, which began in 2010 and included SH 114, aimed to reduce congestion in North Texas. Despite these advancements, public transportation remains limited in Southlake, with the majority of workers opting to drive alone to work. However, the town’s proximity to the Grapevine-Main Street train station offers some connectivity to neighboring regions.
Southlake Sister Cities Program
The Sister Cities Program exhibits Southlake’s commitment to cultural exchange and international relationships. As part of its affiliation with Sister Cities International, Southlake has two international sister cities, fostering global understanding and exchange. The Youth Ambassador Program is a remarkable initiative, enabling high school students to represent Southlake in Tome, Japan. This includes staying with host families and engaging in cultural activities arranged by the City of Tome, fostering a sense of global citizenship among the participants.
The program is open to Southlake residents aged between 14 and 18, offering them a unique opportunity to experience a different culture and broaden their horizons. With the 2024 Southlake Youth Ambassador trip to Tome, Japan, scheduled for May 31 to June 9, the program continues to enhance cultural understanding and foster international relationships.
Preserving Southlake’s History
The Southlake Historical Society leads the collective effort to preserve Southlake’s rich history. The society actively preserves the town’s history through archiving, collecting oral histories, and presenting historical exhibits. Education programs at Southlake’s log house, one of Southlake’s historical landmarks, provide insights into early settler life with educational signs and activities for students.
Members of the community are encouraged to partake in preservation by sharing their personal stories and historical artifacts with the society, including those related to the Union church. The society’s commitment to historic preservation has been recognized with awards, underlying the importance and effectiveness of their work.
Evolution of Professional Services in Southlake, Texas
The development and expansion of professional services in Southlake can be indirectly traced through significant historical and infrastructural developments that have shaped the town:
Early Settlement and Community Building (1840s-1900s): The establishment of churches, schools, and general stores in the 19th century laid the groundwork for a structured community. The founding of Lonesome Dove Baptist Church in the 1840s and the opening of a general store by Robert E. Wilson in 1888 are early indicators of community services catering to the residents’ needs.
Educational Foundations (1917-1919): The consolidation of local school districts into Common School District No. 99 and the opening of Carroll School in 1919 highlight the community’s value on education, a critical component for developing future professionals.
Infrastructure and Growth (1920s-1950s): The construction of Highway 114 in the 1920s and the incorporation of Southlake as a city in 1956 facilitated access and growth, likely attracting more professionals and services to the area.
Economic Transformation and Development (1970s-Present): The completion of Lake Grapevine and Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport in the 1970s marked the beginning of significant economic transformation in Southlake, attracting families and leading to the development of professional services to meet the growing community’s needs, this is just one reason Bellah Cleaning Company started a business in this area, bringing professional window cleaning and power washing to the area. The dynamic growth of the 1990s, with the development of master-planned subdivisions and the opening of Town Square in 1999, indicates a period during which professional services likely saw significant expansion.
Planning and Development Excellence (Recent Decades): The City of Southlake’s Planning and Development Services Department plays a crucial role in guiding the city’s growth, including the development of professional services. The department’s receipt of the Richard R. Lillie Planning Excellence Award from the American Planning Association Texas Chapter underscores Southlake’s commitment to outstanding planning efforts, creating a conducive environment for the growth of professional services.
In summary, while explicit details on the history of each professional service in Southlake are scarce, the town’s historical milestones and development phases provide insights into the environment that fostered the growth of these services. From early community establishments i n the 19th century to strategic planning and development in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, Southlake has evolved into a thriving hub for professional services, catering to the needs of its affluent and growing population.
Summary
From its humble beginnings with Native Americans to its current standing as a thriving town, Southlake’s journey is a testament to the spirit of its people and their commitment to growth, prosperity, and preservation. As we look back at Southlake’s vibrant history, we are inspired by its transformation and excited about its future. With its strong community, thriving economy, and commitment to education and preservation, Southlake stands as a beacon of Texan resilience and prosperity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Southlake, Texas, famous for?
Southlake, Texas, is famous for its Southlake Town Square, Carroll ISD Dragons, Bicentennial Park, and Bob Jones Nature Center, making it one of the safest places to live in the country. These attractions and safety make it a point of pride for both residents and workers.
Why is Southlake called Southlake?
Southlake was named by the daughter of the first mayor, Gail Eubanks, in honor of its proximity to Grapevine Lake. This happened when the residents voted to form the town in 1956.
Do any celebrities live in Southlake, Texas?
Yes, several celebrities, including pro athletes and CEOs, live in Southlake, Texas, such as DeMarcus Ware, Cole Hamels, Jermaine O’Neal, Jason Witten, and others. This shows that the area is attractive to a range of high-profile individuals.
What is the history of White’s Chapel Southlake?
White’s Chapel Southlake has a history dating back over 150 years, when settlers from Rising Fawn, Georgia, established a church in the area and held their first formal service in February of 1872.
What was the role of the Eastern Cross Timbers in Southlake’s early history?
The Eastern Cross Timbers in Southlake’s early history served as a hunting and gathering area for Native American tribes. They presented difficulties for Spanish explorers in the 18th century due to its dense woodland and challenging terrain.