Grapevine History 1900 - 1944

Grapevine History 1900 - 1944

1900 Professor Bloodworth purchases the Grape Vine College from Professor J. S. Brown and operates it until 1906 when the public school system begins. During the next few years, the public school holds classes at the Methodist Church, in an old brick building near the Depot, and in a two-story frame building west of the Methodist Church.

J. E. Foust I publishes the Grapevine Telephone Company directory listing his subscribers and their “rings” with S = Short and L = Long.

The Church of Christ builds a new building on College Street.

Cotton production on the Grape Vine Prairie is good.

The Grape Vine Cornet and Concert Bands provide great entertainment for local citizens and surrounding communities.

The population of Grape Vine is 500.

1901 The Methodist Church builds a new building on Church Street.

The Baptist Church builds a new building on Morehead Street (now Texas Street).

1902 The Farmers & Merchants Milling Company is organized. The first sack of flour is milled on Christmas Eve.

1904 The Baptist Church builds a new building.

1905 The Nash Family builds a new barn.

On December 3, George Bushong’s funeral is held in the new Baptist Church building. He was a tremendous supporter of the new building and did not get to see it finished; his is the first funeral held there.

1906 The Baptist Church installs a baptistry in its new building.

1907 In January, a petition for incorporation is filed with Tarrant County Judge John L. Terrell requesting an election for the purpose of determining if the said Town of Grape Vine should form an incorporation for municipal purposes. J. T. Lucas and 72 citizens sign the petition.

On February 12, Grape Vine citizens vote to incorporate the town; the election is held at Wall Brothers Store on the east side of Main Street.

Grape Vine Public School District is incorporated.

“Preparation for opening streets in the new addition on the east side, of which our new brick school is to be the capitol, is progressing nicely. The addition, together with its streets, alleys, et cetera, have all been mapped off on paper, and not many days hence we will see the material being placed on the ground for the construction of the school building.” – from The Grapevine Sun.

J. T. Lucas is appointed presiding officer at the election and appoints two judges and two clerks to assist him. Every male person age 21 or older who has resided in the proposed incorporated territory for six months preceding the election, and who is a qualified voter under state law, is allowed to vote. Each voter is given a ticket on which he either writes “Corporation” or “No Corporation.” As a result of the election, the town is incorporated. An Aldermanic form of government is put into effect consisting of a mayor, five aldermen, and a city marshal.

An election is called, and the following persons are duly elected: Bart H. Starr, Sr., Mayor. Aldermen include A. M. Dye, J. T. Lucas, H. F. Saunders, B. H. Yancy and J. E. Foust. W. M. Bennett serves as the first Nightwatchman or City Marshal; J. W. May serves October 1907 through 1909. B. R. Wall serves as City Secretary.

On April 9, Ordinance No. 12 is passed stating that no person shall be allowed to hitch or exhibit any stallion or jackass on Main Street. Any person violating this ordinance shall be fined a sum not less than $1 nor more than $5.

In May, V. M. Washam is appointed as Fire Chief of the 13 member all volunteer “Bucket Brigade.” Bucket Brigade members include D. E. Austin, O. P. Turnage, Earl Yates, John Starr, F. T. Estill, B. H. Yancy, John Lemons, Will May, M. M. Dye, Paul Biggs and John Pence.

On June 22, The Grapevine Sun reports: “SPECIAL NOTICE – To the people of the Town of Grapevine. This is to inform you that this is not, nor will ever be, the intention of this Council to impose upon personal rights of anyone. But the laws of this incorporation will be enforced as best we can, and hope the people will see that our intentions are for the upbuilding of our little town and country.” B. H. Starr, Mayor, B. H. Yancy, J. T. Lucas, A. M. Dye, J. E. Foust and H. F. Saunders, Aldermen.

On July 31, The Grapevine Sun reports: “Wednesday, July 31, has been designated by the Town Council as the day for a general cleaning up of all the lots, streets and alleys in Grapevine. Everybody – men, women and children – are requested to turn out on that day, with hoe and rake, and try to improve sanitary conditions of our town. This plan is being followed in all towns, and Grapevine must not be behind. Don’t forget the date. Give us your heartfelt cooperation and good work will result.” B. H. Starr, Mayor – B. R. Wall, Secretary.

In August the first Equalization Board, consisting of John Woods, Henry Wall and Dick Wiggins, meets to “pass on the assessments made by the Marshal of the Town of Grapevine.”

There are 45 streets in Grapevine. In 2007, there are 782.

Wood Wall Realty opens. Nash Groover purchases the first automobile in Grape Vine – a red Maxwell. John Foust I purchases the second automobile.

1908 Wall Brothers agrees to pull the fire wagon with horses for free if needed.

Many brick buildings on Main Street are fronted with cast iron columns and thresholds.

W. R. Cook serves as Mayor. Aldermen include B. H. Yancy, J. E. Foust, J. T. Lucas, O. R. Barton and A. M. Dye.

On February 18, City Marshal J. W. May (who is also responsible for monitoring the water wells) is instructed to floor
the old public well.

Grapevine Public School has its first graduating class.

On June 16, City Marshal J. W. May is instructed to move the water trough to the public well on Main Street, repair the well box, and to supply a new rope and bucket. That action is rescinded at the next Council meeting when Mr. May is instructed to replace the rope and bucket with a pump.

On September 8, the Bay View Club is organized.

In November, an Election Notice is posted that an election will be held at Wall’s Store on Main Street on the 24th day of November for the purpose of determining whether or not the corporate existence of the Town of Grape Vine should be abolished. J. P. Lipscomb is appointed presiding officer of said election. “On each ticket the voter must write or cause to be written or printed ‘For Abolition of Corporation’ or ‘Against Abolition of Corporation.’ Said election will be held in pursuance of a petition filed with me on the 14th day of October 1908 and an order made by me on the 15th day of October 1908.” Witness my hand and seal of the County Court of Tarrant County, Texas, this 15th Day of October 1908. County Judge John L. Terrell. The election to abolish the Incorporation did not prevail.

1909 W. R. Cook serves as Mayor. Aldermen include D. E. Austin, A. M. Dye, J. T. Lucas, H. R. Wall and Earl Yates. B. H. Yancy serves as City Secretary. W. T. Bigbee is appointed Nightwatchman.

On January 20, Mayor W. R. Cook appoints a committee consisting of B. H. Yancy, O. R. Barton and J. E. Foust to draft a constitution and bylaws to govern the fire company.

On May 18, J. E. Foust appears before the Council to request that Grapevine Telephone Company be granted a 25-year franchise to provide telephone service to Grape Vine citizens. The matter was held over until March 15. At that time, Grapevine Telephone Company was granted permission to use dynamite, “not more than half a stick to the shot,” for digging holes for telephone poles.

In June, City Marshal W. T. Bigbee is authorized to spend $4.50 for the purchase of a set of handcuffs. He is also authorized to construct a calaboose, 8 ft. X 10 ft. X 8 ft. (The calaboose is now located at Main and Franklin Streets.)

On November 16 an ordinance is introduced to authorize Wall Brothers to construct and maintain a gas light and water works system. The franchise is granted on December 21, 1909, for a consideration of $5 per annum. The Wall Brothers dug a well and installed a few water lines to the homes on the east side of Main Street.

The Presbyterian Church purchases the old Grape Vine College dormitory building at 304 E. College for $1,100 for their church. In 1934, Boone Lipscomb purchases this property from the church for $1,000.

1910 A census taken reveals a population of 681.

B. H. Yancy serves as Mayor. Aldermen include J. T. Lucas, H. R. Wall, J. E. Foust, O. O. Hollingsworth and James H. Scribner (replaced by Robert Mullinax). B. R. Wall is appointed City Secretary.

On January 18, the city subscribes for six 40-candle-power electric lights for the purpose of lighting Main Street to the Depot. The installed cost is 75 cents per light each month.

On February 21, a motion carries to grant Grapevine Ice and Light Company a franchise to erect, operate and maintain an electric light and ice plant in Grape Vine.

In September, The Grapevine Sun reports, “The Wiley Hotel – J. G. Wiley, Proprietor, near the Depot, will be open for business on September 16. This house has been remodeled and refurnished throughout. First-class accommodations in every respect. Table furnished with the best the market affords. Give this hotel a try.”

On October 22, The Grapevine Sun reports, “Toot! Toot! – The Grape Vine Concert Band will be off to Fort Worth next Thursday evening to play for two nights during the big carnival. All the Grape Vine community is proud of our band boys and know they will do themselves proud, so to speak. Now boys, keep up our ‘rep’.”

On December 24, The Grapevine Sun reports, “Street Lights – The City Council is installing street lights in different parts of town. They now have 24 in operation which adds much to the looks of our town and is appreciated by everyone.”

The population of Grape Vine is 681.

1911 F. F. Tillery is appointed Nightwatchman. A salary of $25 per month is authorized for the marshal.

B. H. Yancy serves as Mayor. Aldermen include J. E. Foust, H. R. Wall, Robert Mullinax, O. O. Hollingsworth and Y. C. Blevins. B. R. Wall is appointed City Secretary.

Charlie M. Millican remodels his blacksmith shop located at Main and Morehead (now Texas) Streets and turns the building to face Main Street.

On May 6, The Grapevine Sun reports, “Interurban For Grape Vine – Decide to build the line at once. Promoters of Dallas-Denton Interurban to incorporate for $500,000. Will begin the work at Denton. The line layout out of Denton being a much easier engineering feat than the Dallas end of the line.”

1912 D. W. Kerr is appointed Nightwatchman.

B. R. Wall serves as Mayor. Aldermen include O. O. Hollingsworth, Robert Mullinax, F. T. Estill, C. E. Walker, W. R. Buckner (replaced by C. T. Winfrey). A. Wylie Willhoite is appointed City Secretary.

John Foust I sells the telephone exchange to Earl Brown.

The first fire hydrants are authorized for purchase and installation. Alderman O. O. Hollingsworth and Robert Mullinax are appointed as a committee to investigate the fire plug proposition.

On December 20, Ordinance 12-21 is passed regulating volatile substances. Ordinance 12-22 is passed regulating combustible materials.

1913 B. R. Wall serves as Mayor. Aldermen include C. T. Winfrey, O. O. Hollingsworth, F. T. Estill, D. D. Wall, R. C. Green. A. Wylie Willhoite is appointed City Secretary.

The first automotive garage opens at Main and Worth owned by Elmer L. Buntin (uncle of Ted Willhoite). Mr. Buntin will serve in WWI.

Mayor Wall goes to New York and brings back the No. 7 Boy Scout Charter, starting one of the first troops west of the Mississippi.

1914 Marion Swift is appointed Nightwatchman; Tom R. Jasper also serves as Nightwatchman this year.

B. R. Wall serves as Mayor. Aldermen include C. T. Winfrey, L. H. Cook, S. J Thomas, M. J. Hollis, W. T. Shaw (replaced by R. C. Green), R. C. Green (replaced by J. G. Wiley). A. Wylie Willhoite is appointed City Secretary.

Mayor B. R. Wall deeds a lot to the City on which the calaboose is placed (near Barton and Texas Streets). The calaboose is constructed.

On January 12, the Post Office officially changes the name of ‘Grape Vine’ to ‘Grapevine.”

On May 15, Ordinance 14-24 is passed establishing the job of Town Scavenger.

A Grapevine Trades Excursion is undertaken to promote Grapevine businesses.

1915 M. T. Chambers serves as Nightwatchman.

C. E. Walker serves as Mayor. Aldermen include L. H. Cook, E. F. Brown, J. H. Withrow, D. D. Wall, G. E. McCombs. George D. Lauford and E. R. Brown are appointed as City Secretary during this year.

The City authorizes a payment of $2 to the Fire Chief for each fire he attends with his team.

On April 16, Ordinance 15-25 is passed placing a tax on public dance halls and skating rinks.

Grapevine’s first dentist arrives, Dr. O. O. Hollingsworth

1916 B. R. Wall serves as Mayor. Aldermen include G. E. McCombs, J. H. Withrow, L. H. Cook, E. F. Brown, D. D. Wall. E. R. Brown and C. V. Hale are appointed as City Secretary during this year.

Charles Harris is Cotton Belt Section Foreman. There are 18 trains that pass through Grapevine each day – 6 passenger trains and 12 freight trains.

The position of Grapevine Fire Marshal is established.

An Ordinance concerning skating rink operation and closing time is adopted.

The first Grapevine High School building is constructed.

1917 On February 17, the first major piece of fire fighting equipment is authorized for purchase for $300. Purchased is an REO truck with soda and acid tanks. This is Grapevine’s first motorized fire truck.

Dr. O. O. Hollingsworth serves as Mayor. Aldermen include D. D. Wall, E. F. Brown, L. H. Cook, J. H. Withrow and Ed McCombs. O. C. Choeupion is appointed City Secretary.

Prices for farm products are high due to WWI. Soldiers stationed at Camp Bowie come to Grapevine. Pilots practice landing in Grapevine.

John Foust I becomes a licensed embalmer.

1918 W. P. Kindrex is appointed Nightwatchman; Lauce Trigg, Jr., also serves this year.

Dr. O. O. Hollingsworth serves as Mayor. Aldermen include D. D. Wall, E. F. Brown, L. H. Cook, Ed McCombs and J. H. Withrow.

At the end of WWI, there is great celebration on Main Street, and citizens shoot guns into the air. One bullet travels down Main Street and lodges in the north wall of the Depot.

1919 B. R. Wall serves as Mayor. Aldermen include Dr. Bechtol, Huber Lipscomb, A. Wiley Willhoite, John Koonce, and Bart Starr (replaced by F. P. Wiegers).

The Grapevine Producing Company is formed and an oil well is drilled in Grapevine. It’s a dry hole.

On October 29, Tarrant County State Bank opens and is owned by the Box family. Later it becomes the First National Bank of Grapevine.

1920 William M. Bennett is appointed Nightwatchman.

B. R. Wall serves as Mayor. Aldermen include Huber Lipscomb, John C. Koonce, F. P. Wiegers, Bart Starr and Wiley Willhoite. O. C. Choeupion serves as City Secretary.

Yates Cash Store is a busy enterprise.

Frank Estill is County Commissioner. A gathering of County Road Workers is held on Main Street and their mule teams are lined up.

Radios become popular and antennas spring up all at once all over town. Two of the tallest belong to B. H. Starr and A. W. Willhoite.

Grapevine starts work on the Morehead Branch (now called Peach Street) Wastewater Treatment Plant. The plant is rated for treating 200,000 gallons of wastewater per day utilizing an anaerobic process.

The population of Grapevine is 821.

1921 The Grapevine Fire Department is chartered with the State of Texas, and B. B. Tidmore is appointed Fire Chief. Mr. Tidmore serves until 1929.

M. A. Buchanan serves as Mayor. Aldermen include B. H. Starr, A. W. Willhoite, W. R. Buckner, D. D. Wall and D. E. Box. C. C. Estill, Jr., serves as City Secretary.

F. T. Wiggers begins his service as Grapevine Cotton Belt Railroad Station Agent, remaining in that position until 1937.

Horses are still in use in Grapevine. Bart H. Starr has a dray team to move freight from the railroad depot to businesses around town.

Automobiles begin to take over from horses and mules, and Willhoite’s Garage opens on Main Street.

On June 2, Ordinance 21-26 is passed regulating traffic.

1922 D. D. Wall serves as Mayor. Aldermen include W. R. Buckner, B. H. Starr, C. M. Millican, A. W. Willhoite and D. E. Box. D. E. Box also serves as City Secretary.

Cotton production in Grapevine is on the decline.

1923 D. M. O’Neal is appointed Nightwatchman.

D. D. Wall serves as Mayor. Aldermen include C. M. Millican, G. E. McCombs, F. P. Wiegers, E. E. Lowe and H. C. Yancey. H. C. Yancey also serves as City Secretary.

On January 1, D. D. Wall is granted the City’s water franchise rights for twenty years.

Dick Wiley is hired by local merchants to help promote their businesses.

Jordan Shoe and Harness Shop replaces the former Withrow Brothers Harness Shop.

On March 3, Grapevine becomes part of the Tarrant County Free Library system. The branch library is located in the front corner of the Farmer’s National Bank at 336 S. Main. Some 250 books are housed in cumbersome bookcases. Mrs. Sue Mullins is the first Librarian and keeps the Library open two afternoons a week.

On April 30, the Council meets in special session to determine whether or not to grant the Ku Klux Klan permission to parade through the streets of Grapevine. Permission is granted, provided that Mayor D. D. Wall is advised three days in advance of the march.

The engineering firm of Baker and VonZuben is contracted to provide engineering data for the construction of a water works system.

On August 23, the Town Council meets to consider adopting the provisions of Chapter 1, Title 22 of the Revised Civil Statues of the State of Texas relating to cities and towns. It is agreed to do so, and therefore the “Town of Grapevine” becomes officially known as the “City of Grapevine” and is vested with all the rights, powers, privileges, immunities and franchises therein conferred. A certified copy of the Minutes and the signed Resolution are sent to the Deed Records of Tarrant County. The clerk is further ordered and directed to procure a corporate seal for the “City of Grapevine” for the purpose of authenticating the official acts of the City Council.

McKinley H. “Max” Frank is Postmaster.

The population of Grapevine is 850.

1924 Lee Milson serves as Nightwatchman; J. S. Daniel is also elected this year and serves until 1941.

E. E. Lowe serves as Mayor. Aldermen include L. D. Kirkpatrick, J. W. Harrison, J. A. Spinks, Earl Yates and H. C. Yancey. H. C. Yancey also serves as City Secretary.

On August 15, a petition signed by C. C. Coleman and 19 others is presented requesting that the College Heights addition become within the city limits, and also a parcel of land south of the existing city limits including an area known as Berry’s Lane. An additional parcel of land Is annexed west of the existing city limits including the Yancy residence on the Grapevine and Keller Road (now known as West Wall Street). The petition is signed by H. H. Yancy and 14 other residents of the area. No protests are filed, and the city limits are extended.

On August 27, the City Council is called into special session to determine whether or not a franchise should be granted to TP&L Company for the purpose of providing power service to the City. By unanimous vote of the council, TP&L receives a 50-year franchise. Service begins on December 2.

On September 4, the Council passes Ordinance No. 30 granting a 25-year telephone franchise to J. W. Harrison and H. Q. Willingham. General Telephone Company later obtains the City’s franchise.

On September 27, a special election is held to consider the issuance of $60,000 in bonds for the construction of a water works system. The issue is approved by a vote of 153 for and 8 against.

On November 5, a motion is made by Alderman Earl Yates and carries unanimously to install the city water plant on Main Street.

Job of City Scavenger is approved – he limes the outhouses.

The Grapevine High School Baseball team poses for a photo.

1925 E. E. Lowe serves as Mayor. Aldermen include J. A. Spinks, J. W. Harrison, Earl Yates, L. D. Kirkpatrick and H C. Yancey. H. C. Yancey also serves as City Secretary.

In January, the city drills a Paluxy water well, an above-ground water tower is constructed, and the start of a water works system is underway. On January 19, the City authorizes the purchase of 100 Hersey water meters for $10.39 each.
On March 24, the minimum monthly rate for all metered water is established at $1.75 for 2,000 gallons or less.

On May 1, Ordinance No. 25-29 is passed regulating traffic during a fire.

On June 25, Ordinance No. 25-03 is passed creating the Office of Fire Marshal.

On August 7, Ordinance No. 25-30 is passed authorizing the operation of a telephone system.

On November 6, Ordinance No. 25-04 is passed establishing an Arson Reward.

1926 A fire destroys a major portion of the City’s records. E. E. Lowe serves as Mayor through 1932. F. Vorderkunz serves as City Secretary.

Due to flooding conditions, J. E. Foust arranges for his funeral hearse (along with himself) to be loaded onto a Cotton Belt Railroad car and delivered to Carrollton. There he attends to the deceased member of a Grapevine family living there, and brings their loved one back to Grapevine by rail for burial.

On March 10, citizens vote for the construction of a sanitary sewer system, disposal plant, and the issuance of improvement warrants not to exceed $30,000. The proposition carries by a vote of 150 to 105. One acre of farm land is purchased from A. E. Hudgins for $450 for the construction site. The contract is awarded to Roy Goodman for $28,069. Engineering fees are 3 percent of the contract price.

On May 6, City Secretary H. C. Yancey receives a letter from H. C. Burt & Company Investment Securities in Dallas regarding the issuance of $30,000 of Warrants for the construction of a Sewer System and Sewage Disposal Plant. The City must advise the company of its entire indebtedness and the exact maturities of any serial bond or warrant issues and also the new valuation for 1926; then the Warrants will be printed.

On May 7, Ordinance No. 26-34 is passed prohibiting all outhouses and privies within the city limits.

On June 1, the City of Grapevine employs B. B. Tidmore as Water and Sewer Superintendent at a salary of $100 per month for one calendar year ending May 1927. His job responsibilities include operating the city water pumps and keeping them repaired and clean; looking after the water and sewer mains and pipes and making connections and disconnections when ordered; keeping the fire truck in repair and ready for use; and every five days and at other times as necessary seeing after the operation of the sewer disposal plant; reading the water meters; keeping all books of the water and sewer department; making out the bills and collecting them, and making deposits in the City Depository. He is to keep a complete set of books and file a detailed financial report with the City Secretary no later than the 15th of each month. His work hours are 7 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. each day.

On June 4, Ordinance No. 26-35 is passed reducing water rates.

Bate VanDeventer purchases the Vantrese farm (now on Mustang Drive). He farms 40 acres raising tomatoes, cantaloupes, sweet potatoes and the like. “Back then tomatoes sold for two dollars for a 22-pound basket, and cantaloupes would get as low as ten cents per bushel basket. When the price was that low, the hogs got a lot of cantaloupes to eat. We also raised hogs.”

The Wallis Hotel closes its operation. The building is demolished in the mid 1930s.

1927 On March 1, the Nash Farm is sold to Carl Yates, and the big farm begun in 1859 leaves the ownership of the Nash family.

In May, while at the Depot, sixteen-year-old George Bushong
learns via the telegraph that “Lindbergh has crossed the Atlantic and landed in Paris.” Station Agent Wiggers instructs Bushong to take the message to the newspaper office, which he did as quickly as he could.

The Southwestern State Telephone Company obtains the telephone franchise for Grapevine.

On October 7, Ordinance No. 27-25 is passed amending the time and dates for the operation of skating rinks – hours of operation are extended to 11:30 p.m.

1928 A new Ford Model “A” is purchased and equipped with fire hose and a large chemical-tank fire extinguisher. It is housed at Main and Texas Streets. A fire alarm, not to exceed $5, is authorized for purchase. E. C. Daniel joins the bucket brigade.

In January, the Grapevine Branch of the Tarrant County Library is moved to the Tarrant County National Bank (where The Grapevine Sun is located today).

In October, the fledgling Library is moved to the north part of Grapevine Motor Company office building at 419 S. Main Street. The Library is open each Wednesday and Saturday from 1 to 5 p.m. The Library has 820 registered borrowers and 11,184 loans of books are made.

Grapevine’s population is 890.

1929 C. C. Coleman is appointed as Fire Chief and serves until his death in 1937. Chief Coleman forms the “Fireman’s Co-Operative Association,” consisting of the fire departments of Grapevine, Grand Prairie, Lewisville and Carrolton. Its mission is to share resources and information. They also hold regularly scheduled contests of a foot race, wagon pull and special ‘ladies’ race.

In January, the Grapevine Branch of the Tarrant County Free Library moves to the Fireboy’s Hall, a round building enclosed with glass across the street from the Palace Theatre.

W. M. Campbell serves as City Secretary.

There are only two trains that pass through Grapevine each day.

Charlie M. Millican moves his blacksmith shop on Main Street a few feet to the south due to the widening of Morehead (now Texas) Street.

The population of Grapevine is 900.

On December 6, Ordinance No. 29-25 is passed amending the hours of operation of skating rinks - hours are cut back to 8 p.m. closing.

1930 W. M. Campbell serves as City Secretary.

On March 2, James Torian is born in the Torian Cabin.

On April 24, E. L. Jordan requests that the City Secretary pay the $15 dues to the State Firemen’s Association for the year - $10 for the department and $5 for the fire marshal. He states that “this may seem somewhat expensive in a way, yet your attention is called to the fact that the department furnishes its services free gratis.”

The library moves to the south half of the Lucas Building at 326 S. Main.

On April 25, Ordinance No. 30-36 is passed levying a tax “on patent medicine shows, sleight of hand performances, gymnastics, dancing or other kinds of performances in a tent, house, open space or enclosure within the limits of the City of Grapevine, where such exhibitions are used for profit by the sale or distribution of medicine, electric belts, or other medical appliances, whether charge is made for seats or not, and fixing a penalty for violations….a tax of $10 in advance for each performance. Any person violating the above section shall be punished by a fine of not more than $100, and each performance shall constitute a separate offence…”

Passenger trains into Fort Worth are discontinued, and passenger service between Addison and Fort Worth are provided by a mixed train which passes through Grapevine each day at 10 p.m. going to Addison, and at 5 a.m. going to Fort Worth.

Truck farming becomes big business in Grapevine. Cantaloupe becomes king. Tomatoes, watermelons and corn are also grown. Bettie McPherson Simmons recalls, “My father, John McPherson, was a farmer all his life…he mainly grew tomatoes, watermelons, corn and loads of cantaloupes. In the late 1930s, Grapevine was known all over for its cantaloupes, and the city even had a special festival with a parade. Large trucks would come out to our farm to take a load to market, and when we kids would see the trucks turn into our land, we started yelling, ‘The haulers are coming. The haulers are coming.’ This was an exciting time at the farm.”

The population of Grapevine is 936.

1931 W. M. Campbell serves as City Secretary.

Era of the Grapevine Rabbit Twisters and “Fiddle Bands” begins. In May 2002, the 18th Annual Main Street Days commemorated the bands.

1932 E. E. Lowe serves as Mayor; Aldermen include Earl Yates, H. H. Yancy, M. A. Buchanan, Henry Willingham, and H. C. Yancey. H. C. Yancey also serves as City Secretary from 1932 through 1946.

Beginning on Monday, February 1, the Library is open extended hours: Monday, Wednesday and Saturday afternoons from 1 to 5 p.m. The Bay View Club pays for the extra day of service during the month of February. The Library Committee and Librarian plan to raise the required funds for the other 11 months.

Grapevine Fire Department is the recipient of $7.50 for winning the Fireman’s Co-Operative Association foot race.

The Grapevine Garden Club is formed.

On December 30, J. L. Stewart of Arlington and Odell Chambles of Longview rob the Grapevine Home Bank, stealing $2,500. Stewart is captured south of Grapevine a little more than two hours after the robbery by Justice of the Peace E. L. Jordan and grocery store clerks Edward Davis and Gordon Tate.

On May 19, Northwest Highway is opened. To commemorate the event, the tallest, shortest, heaviest and thinnest men in town pose for a photograph.

The population of Grapevine is 950.

1933 B. R. Wall serves as Mayor; Aldermen include Henry Willingham, C. M. Millican, D. E. Austin, A. W. Willhoite and H. C. Yancey.

On January 8, Deputy Sheriff Malcom Davis – a Grapevine native - is killed in Dallas by W. D. Jones, a companion of Clyde Barrow.

On January 24, Gordon Tate is commissioned as a Special Deputy Sheriff for one year by Tarrant County Sheriff J. R. Wright.

An Aermotor watertower and windmill are erected on the Silver Lake Farm on Ruth Wall Road. In 1996 the structure is donated to the Heritage Foundation and is dedicated at the Heritage Center in May 1998.

Through the courtesy of the Mayor and City Council, the facilities of the Grapevine Branch Library are available another day of the week – Monday. New shelves and chairs are added. Mrs. Davis is Librarian, and her husband builds the first book shelves.

The population of Grapevine is 960.

On May 11, Ordinance No. 33-01 is passed requiring that dogs must be vaccinated against rabies.

1934 B. R. Wall serves as Mayor; Aldermen include A. W. Willhoite, C. M. Millican, D. E. Austin and H. C. Yancey.

In March, the Library circulation of books grows to 2,263, and the City Council agrees to bear the expense of one day per week for library service. This expands service from 1 to 5 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday.

On April 1, State Highway Patrolmen E. D. Wheeler, H. D. Murphy, and Polk Ivy are on patrol. It is Murphy’s first day of official patrol duty. Wheeler and Murphy stop at Highway 114 and Dove Road to investigate a parked car. Patrolman Ivy continues on west. When he realizes that the others are not with him, he returns and discovers that Patrolmen Wheeler and Murphy have been killed by the occupants of the parked car – Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow.

In November, the Grapevine Lions Club is chartered. J. A. Spinks is the first president.

The population of Grapevine is 984.

1935 B. R. Wall serves as Mayor; Aldermen include D. E. Austin, H. C. Yancey, F. P. Wiegers, C. M. Millican and A. W. Willhoite.

On February 9, the Grapevine Sewing Club is organized; on September 25, 1936, it officially changes its name to the ’36 Club.

On November 4, the Works Progress Administration (WPA) approves the operation of a Canning Plant in Grapevine, and the City agrees to sponsor it and to furnish the building, equipment and all utilities such as gas, water, sewerage, and lights. The canning equipment is loaned to the City from the Texas Relief Commission. Products canned in Grapevine from materials and supplies from the Texas Relief Commission will go back to the Commission for distribution to families in the legal boundaries of Grapevine, and any surplus will be available for transfer to other points of distribution. Any products canned principally from materials furnished by the sponsor will be distributed according to TRC regulations to families, individuals or public institutions within Grapevine and will not be available for transfer out of these boundaries. Over 34,750 pieces of equipment (including cans) are inventoried for use in the Canning Plant, plus 60 feet of hose and 18,000 vegetable labels.

The Grapevine Lions Club sponsors the first Cantaloupe Festival, a popular annual event that continues for seven years.

The Grapevine Branch Library has a circulation of 18,747 for the year of 1935. The total number of registered borrowers is 1,032.

In the mid 1930s, Mr. J. H. Wright buys the Traders Oil Gin.

1936 B. R. Wall serves as Mayor; Aldermen include D. E. Austin, H. C. Yancey, F. P. Wiegers, C. M. Millican and A. W. Willhoite.

Kirby Buckner and W. D. Deacon obtain the mill on Main Street and start the B&D Mills to manufacture livestock and poultry feeds.

Grapevine’s population is 995.

Taxes are imposed on the manufacture, sale or distribution of vinous beverages and malt liquors.

J. H. Wright’s red and black GMC pick up truck is purchased. Many young people learn to drive it. (In 2007, it is still in the possession of Joe Wright. Former City Manager Jim Hancock restored it.)

1937 B. R. Wall serves as Mayor; Aldermen include A. W. Willhoite, D. E. Austin, C. M. Millican and H. C. Yancey.

On January 9, Ordinance No. 37-02 is passed setting the terms of office for elected officials.

E. C. Daniel is appointed Fire Chief and serves until 1941.

B. F. Hill begins his service as Grapevine Cotton Belt Railroad Station Agent, serving until 1946.

Library hours are increased to every afternoon from noon until 5 p.m. and on Saturdays from 9 a.m. until noon. The Grapevine Branch Library continues to be the busiest library in the county after the Fort Worth Public Library. Miss Sue Hurst fills in while Mrs. Davis is on leave of absence.

1938 B. R. Wall serves as Mayor; Aldermen include Boone Lipscomb, C. M. Millican, D. E. Austin, A. W. Willhoite and H. C. Yancey.

Tarrant County allows $12 per month for opening the Library two days per week. The Grapevine City Council pays another $6 per month for an additional Library day and pays the electric and gas utilities. The Librarian’s salary is $18 per month.

Heritage Park is established. The City and school district are deeded 2.8 acres for a park at Ball and Wall Streets. A Boy Scout hut is constructed in the park under the direction of Mayor B. R. Wall and the Lions Club. The Hut is built by Luther Green. In 1977, an additional 6.83 acres are acquired. In 1995, an additional 1.94 acres are purchased including the Bessie Mitchell home.

J. H. Wright establishes the Grapevine Basket Factory (east of where the tennis courts are currently located in Heritage Park). At the Grapevine Basket Factory they also make egg crates and tomato lug tops (box tops) from cottonwood veneer. The Basket Factory employs about 15 people.

Grapevine’s population is 1,011.

1939 B. R. Wall serves as Mayor; Aldermen include D. E. Austin, H. C. Yancey, C. M. Millican, A. W. Willhoite and Boone Lipscomb.

On April 14, Ordinance No. 39-01 is passed adopting Title 28 of the Revised Civil Statues. Also passed is Ordinance No. 39-05 prohibiting interference with fire fighting equipment.

On December 5, the trustees of the Grapevine (Heritage) Park, which was conveyed to the City by Mr. and Mrs. Jesse Wright, arrange the following plan for operation of the park: “That the south 150 feet of the park shall be used by the Boy Scouts of Grapevine for the erection of the Scouts Cabin, and the Boy Scouts shall keep the grounds set apart for them in a satisfactory condition to the trustees; that the Grapevine Garden Club is to have charge of the plan for landscaping said part for a term of one year, which term may be extended; and that nothing in this arrangement shall prevent the use of the park for public or private amusement under the direction of the trustees.” Mrs. W. G. Fraser is president of the Grapevine Garden Club.

Mr. Deacon purchases Mr. Buckner’s interest in the B&D Mills and Floyd and Earl Deacon come into the business. The mill soon becomes the first electronic manufacturing feed mill in the area.

In April, Ordinance No. 39-06 passes setting the top speed limit in the city limits at 20 miles per hour. Ordinance No. 39-06 passes establishing the Rules for the Sanitary Sewer System.

On April 14, Ordinances No. 39-10 and No. 39-11 pass, providing for the Office of Public Utilities Inspector and establishing a fire alarm system. Also passing are Ordinances No. 39-13 and No. 39-14 establishing and containing a penal code and regulating the use of streets and sidewalks. Ordinance No. 39-15 defines nuisance, and Ordinance No. 39-16 regulates traffic, signs, signals and set speed limits.

On April 14, Ordinance No. 39-37 passes regulating the erection of filing stations and automotive service stations, providing for safety to the public.

Construction begins on the new Palace Theatre.

1940 B. R. Wall serves as Mayor; Aldermen include A. W. Willhoite, D. E. Austin, C. M. Millican, Boone Lipscomb and H. C. Yancey.

The Civil Aeronautics Administration earmarks $1.9 million for the construction of a Dallas-Fort Worth Regional Airport. There is local disagreement over its construction; in 1943 the project is abandoned.

On April 10, Jack Counts presents a Junior Historian essay at the Texas State Historical Association in Austin on the life of L. J. “Samp” Martin, the 14-year-old boy who published The Grapevine News in 1882. On the program with Jack Counts is J. Frank Dobie.

The Grapevine Ice Company opens producing 10 tons per day. The company serves Grapevine, Hurst, Keller, Roanoke and Coppell. Customers use an “ice card” so the deliveryman will know how much they need.

Truck farming is big business.

During the early 1940s, the City expands the Peach Street Wastewater Treatment Plant to treat a total of 750,000 gallons of wastewater per day.

On November 21, the new Palace Theatre opens on Main Street. The cost of the theatre is $25,000; it has a lower seating capacity of 473 (including 22 “love seats”), and 130 balcony seats. Ticket prices are 10 cents for adults and five cents for children.

On December 12, Mayor B. R. Wall wrote in his Grapevine Sun column: “Do your holiday shopping at Grapevine. Better prices and less parking troubles.” He also wrote that, “We are in the middle of the worst war the world has ever known.”

The population of Grapevine is 1,043.

1941 B. R. Wall serves as Mayor; Aldermen include D. E. Austin, H. C. Yancey, C. M. Millican, A. W. Willhoite and Boone Lipscomb. Marvin Langley serves as Nightwatchman and serves until 1953.

On March 21, Mr. and Mrs. Marvin Langley present a petition requesting the annexation of the North Main area into the city limits.

In June, Mrs. Davis retires as Librarian after eight years of service. Miss Sue Hurst becomes the third Librarian of the Grapevine Branch Library.

In July, the Library moves to the WPA Sewing Room at 413 S. Main (north half of the old City Hall), across the street from the Post Office at 408 S. Main.

The last Cantaloupe Festival is held due to WWII and also a decline in cantaloupe production.

December 11, The Grapevine Sun reports that “Texas cotton farmers are receiving the highest price for cotton since 1929.”

Grapevine’s population is 1,093.

1942 B. R. Wall serves as Mayor; Aldermen include Boone Lipscomb, A. W. Willhoite, C. M. Millican, D. E. Austin and H. C. Yancey.

Charlie Thomas is appointed Fire Chief. He began his career in 1928.

Gas service begins in Grapevine.

In February, The Grapevine Sun reports that “War Time” goes into effect beginning Monday, February 9th. All clocks will be advanced one hour to what President Roosevelt has named “War Time.”

Mrs. Gertie Hurst becomes Librarian after her daughter, Sue Hurst, takes another job. Mrs. Hurst establishes the Library’s Memorial Fund.

On October 22, The Grapevine Sun reports that “Names of men in the service are wanted. A roll of service men, which is incomplete, having only 74 names of men from this community in the service, is on display at the Baptist Church. A committee is endeavoring to obtain the name of every man from Grapevine who has entered the armed services.”

On November 3, The Grapevine Sun reports that…”Grapevine and community are represented in all branches of the service on all parts of the globe. They are fighting to preserve those things that we all hold dear and cherish. The least that we can possibly do is to sustain the efforts of these brave men. They are your sons and husbands.”

Hunting season is serious fun for Grapevine’s men.

Grapevine’s population is 1,123.

1943 B. R. Wall serves as Mayor; Aldermen include D. E. Austin, Boone Lipscomb, C. M. Millican, A. W. Willhoite and H. C. Yancey.

On September 6, Mr. And Mrs. L. M. Chaffin receive a telegram from the War Department informing them that their son, Flight Officer John F. Chaffin, is a German prisoner of war.

On September 9, an editorial comment in The Grapevine Sun says, “We on the home front face one of the most personal challenges of the war to date.”

On November 26, the Baptist Church celebrates its 75th anniversary.