“Handley Park? Isn’t that where they used to have that big lake?” That’s a question you might hear from a long-time resident of Fort Worth. Handley Park, established in 1948, has a past intertwined with the story of a town swallowed by the growth of a city. Before becoming a park, this land was part of Handley, a small community established in 1885. Named after Confederate General James Madison Handley, it thrived in the early 20th century thanks to the Interurban streetcar line connecting Fort Worth and Dallas. Imagine hopping on a streetcar right here, heading for a day of fun at Lake Erie Trolley Park. This popular recreation area, along with the streetcar line, made Handley a bustling hub. However, by 1946, Fort Worth had annexed Handley. The streetcars vanished, Lake Erie disappeared into what is now part of Lake Arlington, and the town became a neighborhood. Yet, the spirit of community remained. Handley Park stands as a testament to this history, offering a playground, picnic facilities, and the Handley Meadowbrook Community Center. It’s a place where the echoes of streetcar bells and laughter from a vanished amusement park mingle with the joyful sounds of children playing.
Harrison Cemetery Plaque
Is it possible for a place to hold so much history in just one acre? You might not think so,