Southlake, Texas, is known today for its beautiful homes, top-tier schools, and proximity to Dallas-Fort Worth. However, its history is much deeper, filled with the stories of Native Americans, early settlers, and dynamic growth. This journey traces the roots of Southlake from its earliest inhabitants through its incorporation in 1956 to the modern city it has become today. Let’s discover the history of Southlake and how it became a thriving community in North Texas.
Before 1840: Native American Roots
Long before Southlake became a thriving city, the area was home to Native American tribes. The Tonkawa and Hasinai Caddo tribes originally inhabited the region, taking advantage of the Eastern Cross Timbers’ dense forests, which provided ample resources for hunting and gathering. Eventually, other tribes, such as the Comanche, Kiowa, and Wichita, moved into the area, shaping its cultural landscape.
In the 1540s, Spanish explorer Francisco Vásquez de Coronado ventured through what is now North Texas in search of the fabled Seven Cities of Cibola. Although the cities remained elusive, this marked one of the earliest recorded European encounters in the region.
1840-1860: Early Settlement and Frontier Life
The arrival of European settlers in the 1840s marked a significant change for the region. In 1841, W.S. Peters led a colonization effort to settle the area, bringing hundreds of families to North Texas under land grants. This was the first major wave of settlers who established small farming communities.
At the same time, a fort was constructed to protect the settlers from conflicts with Native American tribes. In 1843, President Sam Houston negotiated treaties with various Native American groups to establish peace in the area. These treaties set boundaries between the Native American lands and the newly settled areas, helping create a sense of security for the new arrivals.
One of the first major landmarks in the area was the founding of Lonesome Dove Baptist Church in 1846, which remains a symbol of the early settlers’ desire to establish a community. By 1850, Tarrant County was officially established, laying the groundwork for formal governance in the region.
Despite efforts to maintain peace, tension between Native Americans and settlers persisted. In 1859, Native Americans burned down Mount Gilead Baptist Church in what is now nearby Keller, a reminder of the ongoing struggles that shaped the early years of settlement.
1860-1900: The Civil War and Cattle Trails
The Civil War brought massive changes to Texas, and Southlake was no exception. Texas seceded from the Union in 1861, and although Sam Houston, former President of the Republic of Texas, opposed secession, the state was drawn into the conflict. After the war, the region began its recovery, and Texas rejoined the Union in 1870.
The post-war years saw the rise of the cattle industry, with North Texas becoming a hub for cattle drives. Cowboys drove longhorn cattle through the area on their way to northern markets, with some trails passing close to present-day Southlake. This era was pivotal for the economy and further solidified Southlake’s role in Texas’s expanding agricultural network.
By the late 1800s, the community that would eventually become Southlake was starting to take shape. In 1888, Robert E. Wilson opened a store near what is now Southlake Boulevard, creating a focal point for commerce. Although a planned railway connecting Letot, Texas, to Albuquerque only made it to Jack County, the railroad path laid the groundwork for future transportation routes, including what is now Highway 114.
1900-1920: Early 20th Century Changes
The early 20th century marked a time of growth and development for the Southlake area. In 1901, Texas struck oil near Beaumont, which had ripple effects across the state. Though oil wasn’t found directly in Southlake, the booming economy had a profound influence on the surrounding areas.
Education became a priority, and by 1917, smaller local school districts consolidated to form what would eventually become the Carroll Independent School District. In 1919, Carroll School opened, serving the white community, while African American children attended segregated schools such as Walnut Grove, founded by Bob Jones, a prominent African American rancher.
Infrastructure also improved during this period, with key roads like Keller-Grapevine Road being surfaced with gravel, making transportation more efficient for local farmers and traders.
1940-1970: Post-War Expansion and Incorporation
The mid-20th century marked a period of rapid growth for the area that would become Southlake. One of the biggest developments was the construction of Lake Grapevine, which began in 1948 and was completed in 1952. The lake became a vital water source for the growing population in the region and spurred interest in developing the surrounding land.
Southlake officially became a town in 1956, with an initial population of around 200 residents. Anthony Gail Eubanks, the town’s first mayor, guided the early days of Southlake’s incorporation, and the town was named for its proximity to Grapevine Lake. The incorporation laid the foundation for structured governance, with the creation of a mayor’s office, town marshal, and a board of aldermen.
By 1959, the Carroll Independent School District had expanded to offer K-12 education, and the population growth called for even more infrastructure. In the mid-1960s, Southlake added its first fire and police departments, and planning began for the city’s future, including a comprehensive land-use plan in 1968.
1970-1990: The Suburban Boom
Southlake’s real transformation began in the 1970s with the opening of the Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport in 1974. The airport’s proximity to Southlake made the city a prime location for suburban growth, attracting residents who wanted to be close to the metroplex while enjoying a suburban lifestyle. Southlake’s population more than doubled from 2,800 in 1980 to over 7,000 by 1990.
During this period, Southlake focused on establishing its infrastructure. The creation of Bicentennial Park in 1976 and the expansion of public utilities helped support the growing population. In 1987, Southlake adopted a Home Rule Charter, which gave the city more autonomy in managing its growth and development. The city also annexed surrounding land, further expanding its footprint.
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1990 to Present: The Southlake We Know Today
The 1990s saw Southlake’s population skyrocket as the city became a desirable location for affluent families. By 1993, the population had reached 10,000, and by 1998, it had doubled to 20,000. This rapid growth was largely driven by the development of Southlake Town Square, a mixed-use development that became the heart of the community.
In 1997, construction began on Southlake Town Square, a project that aimed to create a downtown area with shopping, dining, and public spaces. The first phase opened in 1999, and the Town Square has continued to grow, becoming one of the most popular retail and social hubs in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.
The 2000s and 2010s brought further development in terms of education, parks, and recreational facilities. Carroll Independent School District became a major draw for families thanks to its strong academic reputation and the success of the Carroll Dragons football team, which won multiple state championships.
In recent years, Southlake has made efforts to honor its history while embracing its future. The Bob Jones Nature Center and Preserve, established to celebrate Bob Jones’s legacy, serves as a reminder of the region’s deep roots. In 2021, an exhibit was installed at the center to honor Bob and his wife, Almeady Chisum Jones, reflecting Southlake’s commitment to preserving its diverse heritage.
Southlake Today and Looking Ahead
Southlake’s journey from a rural outpost to a thriving city is a testament to its community’s resilience and forward-thinking leadership. Today, with a population of over 31,000, Southlake is one of the most affluent cities in Texas. Its blend of luxury living, excellent schools, and proximity to major cities makes it a top destination for families and businesses alike.
As Southlake continues to grow, it remains committed to preserving its rich history while embracing modern progress. The city’s balance of historical preservation and forward-looking development ensures that Southlake will continue to thrive for generations to come.
Conclusion
From its Native American roots to its modern suburban success, Southlake’s history is one of growth, resilience, and transformation. By understanding the key events that have shaped this North Texas city, we gain a deeper appreciation for how Southlake has become a model of suburban excellence. As it continues to evolve, Southlake remains firmly rooted in its rich past while looking forward to an even brighter future.