In the heart of the city of Fort Worth, Texas, stands an iconic statue that honors one of the city’s most prominent and beloved figures. This statue is a tribute to the legacy of Major Ripley Arnold, a well-respected and influential U.S. Army officer who played a major role in the taming of the Wild West. The statue of Major Arnold stands tall and proud in front of the Will Rogers Memorial Center as a reminder of the historic figure’s accomplishments. Major Arnold was born in Davidson County, Tennessee, around 1807 and moved to Texas with his family when he was just a young boy. As a young man, he enlisted in the Texas Army and served under General Sam Houston in the Battle of San Jacinto in 1836, which effectively ended the Texas Revolution. After the battle, he quickly earned a commission as a major in the Texas Army and served faithfully for the Republic of Texas until it joined the United States in 1845. Learn more here.
The United States Army recruited many of the officers of the Republic of Texas, and Arnold was one of these officers. In August of 1846, he was appointed as the officer in charge of the troops stationed at Fort Worth, an area filled with dangers caused by Native Americans and outlaws. He was reliable and resolute in his duty and greatly reduced the dangers of the area by enforcing the order. Aside from his military career, Major Arnold was also a local rancher, businessman, and politician. He was a founding member of the Board of Directors of the Texas and Pacific Railway and was heavily involved in the business and civic life of Fort Worth. His most lasting legacy is the Major Ripley Arnold Statue which stands as a testament to his dedication, courage, and leadership. Learn more about From Business District to Tourist Attraction – How Downtown Fort Worth, Inc. Is Revitalizing Fort Worth, TX.