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History

History

For more than 130 years, The Fort Worth Club has helped define and influence Fort Worth’s distinctive character

HISTORY AND TRADITION
The history of The Fort Worth Club is woven so deeply within the history of Fort Worth, recalling the past of one requires remembering both. While much has changed since the Club was established, the community leadership and camaraderie remains the same; just as it did more than a century ago.
AN ENDURING LEGACY
It was during this time a small group of businessmen began talking about organizing a club. This club would not only provide an opportunity for socializing, but would work for the continued growth of Fort Worth. As the Gazette reported, the Club “is to be the medium for advancing the business interests of the city.”

On June 10, 1885, the Commercial Club was officially chartered by the state of Texas and a new era of Fort Worth’s history began.
COWTOWN'S CLUB
As Fort Worth continued to grow, due largely in part to the meat-packing industry that led to the term, “Cowtown,” so did the Club. Cultural arts became of more importance, membership was increasing, and there was concern the name “Commercial Club” did not correctly represent the Club’s purpose. In 1906, the Club’s name was changed to “The Fort Worth Club.”
INN AT THE CLUB 
In 1926, The Fort Worth Club erected a grand, 12-story high-rise at Throckmorton and Seventh streets, featuring apartment suites for prominent members. Club President Amon G. Carter hosted many prestigious guests at the new building in his personal quarters, including President Franklin D. Roosevelt, Bob Hope, Gene Autrey, war hero J.D. Doolittle, lords and ladies of London, sports figures and more. The new Fort Worth Club became the social epicenter of Fort Worth. Today the suites have evolved into 21 boutique guest rooms. Catering to members, Club tenants, corporate groups, wedding parties, or those looking for convenient overnight accommodations in beautiful downtown Fort Worth, the Inn at the Club serves as a "home away from home" for guests from around the world.
DAVEY O'BRIEN HALL OF FAME
The Davey O'Brien Hall of Fame is located on the 11th floor next to the Davey O'Brien Sports Lounge. Davey O’Brien’s longtime friend and business partner, Charles Ringler, believed that accomplishments and commitment of one of Fort Worth’s finest sports heroes deserved to be honored and remembered. In November 1977, just before O’Brien passed away from cancer, Ringler and other members of The Fort Worth Club established the Davey O’Brien Foundation and Davey O’Brien Memorial Trophy. To this day, the Davey O’Brien Award honors candidates who exemplify Davey O’Brien’s enduring character while exhibiting teamwork, sportsmanship, and leadership in both academics and athletics. This award has evolved to three awards given annually, which are housed on the 11th floor of The Fort Worth Club in the Davey O’Brien Hall of Fame.
 
 

A Legacy Of Excellence

The Fort Worth Club remains a premier destination in Downtown Fort Worth. Click here to learn about the unique mission and values of The Fort Worth Club. 

EXPLORE VALUES