“Lake Como” A name that echoes the famous Italian resort. But this one lies in Texas.
Lake Como in Fort Worth boasts origins dating back to the 1890s. Denver investors saw prairie land west of the Clear Fork of the Trinity River. They envisioned a grand development called “Chamberlin Arlington Heights.”
Investors enlisted architect Marshall Sanquinet. He designed stately homes. By 1892, about twenty homes and a resort hotel, Ye Arlington Inn, stood proudly. Lake Como itself was created in the southwest corner of the subdivision. It mirrored the name of the famous Italian resort.
A pavilion and boathouse were constructed. A powerhouse generated electricity for a streetcar line to the lake. This drew traffic to the recreational area and the rest of the development.
The financial crisis of 1893 halted further development. But Arlington Heights rebounded after World War I. It was annexed into the city in 1922.
In the early 20th century, an African American community grew around Lake Como. Residents used the lake for recreation. In 1936, Fort Worth celebrated Texas’ independence from Mexico. A “Century of Negro Progress,” a centennial exposition for the city’s black community, was held at Lake Como. This four-day event tied into the traditional “Juneteenth” celebration. It featured a midway, an exhibition building, and a night club.
By 1950, the city’s west side lacked a public park for the black community. In 1952, Amon G. Carter donated 86.5 acres at Lake Como for a park. The park board had requested this in 1951. In 1955, the Amon G. Carter Foundation gave $25,000 for park development. The money came from selling residential lots on the lake’s east and north edges.
Park director Hamilton Hittson used the funds to build a shelter. Horace O. Duncan constructed it. A dedication ceremony occurred in June 1956. A swimming pool and bathhouse followed in 1957. Robin Llewellyn was the engineer. Carter and Burgess served as landscape architects.
Lake Como Park received playground improvements in 1998. The historic shelter still stands. Today, you can find tennis courts, grills and fishing is allowed.
Lake Como is more than just a park. It’s a historic neighborhood with culture, community pride, and resilience. From its roots as a refuge for African American families to its current evolution, Lake Como stands strong.
Keep Lake Como Beautiful was founded in 2024. It addresses neighborhood disinvestment and demographic changes. It empowers the community.
Lake Como has seen a lot. It has evolved. It represents a piece of Fort Worth’s vibrant history. Take a moment to appreciate its journey. Imagine the lives touched by this lake and park.