James M. Benbrook
Benbrook, Tarrant County, Texas
Marker Inscription
In 1876 Indiana native James M. Benbrook brought his family to this settlement, then known as Marinda. A veteran of the Union Army during the Civil War, he became a prominent area farmer and landowner. In 1880, when rail lines were completed here and a depot was constructed, the community was renamed Benbrook in his honor by the Texas and Pacific Railroad Company. Twice married, Benbrook was the father of six children. Recorded - 1982.
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
In 1876 James M. Benbrook, an Indiana native and Union Army veteran of the Civil War, brought his family to a Tarrant County settlement then called Marinda. He became a prominent farmer and landowner, and when the Texas and Pacific Railroad completed its lines and built a depot here in 1880, the company renamed the community in his honor. The town of Benbrook still carries his name.
Why it matters
His story shows how the railroad and its depots reshaped and renamed the map of settled Texas, elevating local landowners into town namesakes.
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Related people
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Themes & tags
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