Site of Arlington Downs Racetrack

Arlington Downs began with an illegal bet. Wikipedia says W. T. Waggoner's track opened in 1929, before pari-mutuel wagering was legal, and that racegoers O. O. Franklin and J. B. Coulter were arrested there in 1931 for betting openly. The publicity and court case let racing backers argue their side. The Handbook of Texas credits Waggoner's effort and backing with the 1933 bill, which Governor Miriam Ferguson signed, and Wikipedia says the first permit went to Arlington Downs. The legislature repealed the law in 1937, and the grounds turned to rodeos and other events.

What the plaque says

Site of Arlington Downs Racetrack Wealthy rancher and oilman W. T. Waggoner (1852-1934) developed a stable of fine Thoroughbreds and quarter horses at his ranch here in the 1920s. At this site he built Arlington Downs, a one-and-one quarter mile race track with a 6,000-seat grandstand. Racing days drew thousands of spectators including numerous celebrities. Waggoner and his sons Guy (1883-1950) and Paul (1889-1967) campaigned for pari-mutuel betting, which was legalized in Texas from 1934 to 1937. The Racetrack was used for rodeos and other events before the buildings were razed in 1958. (1978)

Where it stands

Worth the stop nearby

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• The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza — 15 mi
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• Tarrant County Courthouse — 15 mi
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• Dallas Museum of Art — 16 mi
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More markers nearby

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