The Timeless Charm of Fort Worth’s Historic Brick Roads
Fort Worth's historic Brick roads are a testament to the city’s rich history and architectural heritage. Under foot or tire it can be easy to overlook the story that these streets have to tell. We feel that every brick holds a narrative of endurance, craftsmanship, and the pioneering spirit that has driven Fort Worth forward. We wanted to take a moment to give closer look to theses iconic roads that have stood the test of time.
The Bricks that Built Fort Worth
Fort Worth, like many other American cities, began laying brick roads in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This was a period of rapid urban development for the nation and these new roads helped cities keep up with their growth. Laid by the hands of skilled workers, paved roads became the backbone of the growing city situated "where the west begins".
Fort Worth, like many other cities, paved its roads with vitrified clay bricks. Manufacturers fire vitrified bricks at a higher temperature than their standard counterparts, which makes them more durable. They also have a glaze to prevent soaking up water, making them perfect for building roads.
Obviously, bricks no longer represent the pinnacle of pavement technology. While masonry and stone roads are seeing something of a revival in smaller towns, many cities have opted to repave their brickwork with asphalt. Although many of our nation's historic roads have been lost to time, Fort Worth has preserved several iconic examples. Preservation of these streets continues to be a priority for many city residents who feel that they are a part of the city’s architectural and cultural identity.
The Legacy of the Stockyards
Fort Worth's Stockyards hold a legendary place in the city's history. The area was once home to the largest livestock market in the Southwest. Many things have changed since then, but we have thankfully preserved the historical integrity of the district.
The stockyards needed roads that were durable enough to withstand wear and tear of the cattle drives that would parade through the district daily. A local brick supplier; Thurber Brick, was responsible for paving Fort Worth's stockyards.
Thurber operated out of a company town, Thurber, TX, until they closed in 1920. Thurber bricks were made from shale clay, and were recognized as some of the best masonry in nation. In addition to the Stockyards, Thurber provided bricks for Fort Worth's Main St. and Camp Bowie Blvd. Their signature masonry also helped build several of Austin's streets and the Galveston Seawall.
Today, the Stockyards are more than a tourist destination; they are a homage to Fort Worth's heritage as a cattle trading hub. The deep, rusty red of Thurber masonry showcases the timeless beauty and reliability of brick in city building.
Making the Right Choice
Choosing the right brick might not sound like the most glamorous part of a project, but it can make all the difference in the world to the look, feel, and longevity of your build. Whether you’re drafting the plans for a towering commercial space or laying out your dream backyard patio, getting to grips with the different brick types out there is step one.
From Past to Present: Southwest Brick and Fireplace’s Offerings
At Southwest Brick and Fireplace, we understand the importance of maintaining the historical integrity of Fort Worth’s architecture. While you will be hard pressed to find an authentic Thurber brick today, our distributors offer masonry perfect restoration projects or new construction aiming for a touch of the past. Our selection includes bricks that not only compliment Cowtown's historic aesthetic but also meet modern building standards. For example, Magnum Brick's "Burgundy Flash" could be an ideal choice for anyone seeking to emulate that classic cowtown feel.
While we honor tradition, we also embrace innovation. Our offerings are engineered for enhanced durability and energy efficiency. This ensures that your projects can enjoy a timeless look along with the benefits of contemporary masonry technology.
Whether you’re looking to infuse your home with some rustic charm, or seeking to give your commercial space a touch of Fort Worth’s historic elegance, Southwest Brick and Fireplace can help. Our masonry can transform any space, bringing warmth, character, and a sense of history.
We pride ourselves on offering custom solutions to fit the unique needs of each project. Our team is ready to collaborate with you to find or create the perfect brick, ensuring your project carries the spirit of Fort Worth’s historic streets.