Step back in time and experience the pioneer lifestyle at Knapp Heritage Park’s 20th anniversary celebration in Downtown Arlington. This special event, organized by the Arlington Historical Society, is free and open to the public, offering a day of historical exploration and family-friendly fun. The celebration will take place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, September 28, 2024. Free parking will be available around the park, located at 201 W. Front St., near the George W. Hawkes Downtown Library.
Nancy Tice, President of the Arlington Historical Society, emphasized the significance of the event, describing it as a wonderful opportunity for families to celebrate an important chapter of Arlington’s rich history. Visitors will be guided through the park’s historical landmarks by interpreters dressed in traditional pioneer attire, offering a glimpse into the past with tours of two historic cabins and a one-room schoolhouse.
The event will also feature live entertainment, local vendors, artisans, and demonstrations showcasing pioneer skills such as butter churning, wood turning, and the craft of making corn husk dolls. Concessions will be available for purchase throughout the day, and proceeds, along with donations, will support the ongoing maintenance of Knapp Heritage Park, which is managed by the Arlington Historical Society and the Fielder Museum.
Knapp Heritage Park, dedicated in 2004, holds significant historical value for Arlington. The park was established on land donated by the grandchildren of James and Mildred Knapp. James Knapp, a well-known attorney and land developer, played a key role in the development of many of Arlington’s major highways, including State Highway 360. The park is home to several historic structures, including James Knapp’s office, the Jopling-Melear and Watson cabins, which date back to the mid-1800s, and a 1910 one-room schoolhouse.
In addition to these buildings, the park features the Bardin blacksmith barn, a water tower once owned by Arlington’s first mayor, George Finger, and the original trough bowl from Arlington’s famous mineral well. These landmarks offer a tangible connection to Arlington’s pioneer past, making the park a valuable cultural and educational resource for the community.
For more information about the anniversary event or to inquire about park tours, contact the Arlington Historical Society at 817-460-4001 or via email at [email protected].
Don’t miss this chance to immerse yourself in Arlington’s pioneer history while celebrating 20 years of preserving and showcasing the city’s heritage.
