As you probably know, Keela & I are Arlington transplants.
I moved to Arlington in 2005 after spending 10 years in Atlanta.
As I’ve gotten to know longtime Arlingtonites, a variation of the following statement is always mentioned.
“Arlington sure has changed a lot.”
Sometimes change is good. Sometimes change is bad. But one thing is for sure, we’ve all seen some level of change as Arlington residents.
I love discovering older photos of places I’ve lived. So I’ve done some internet research and found a few vintage photos of Arlington that shows how Arlington has evolved over the years. I thought all Arlington residents, regardless of how long you’ve lived here, should see them. And what a better day to share them than on #ThrowbackThursday.
Below are a few vintage photos of Arlington you’re sure to enjoy!
Sure, current Arlington residents enjoy cheering on the Rangers at Globe Life Park. But nostalgic Rangers fans long for the days and recall memories at Arlington Stadium. How about that photo of Nolan Ryan?
Seven Seas was a marine life park owned by the City of Arlington. Seven Seas was in operation from 1972-1976. The attraction closed due to the lack of revenue to offset operating costs. Read more about Seven Seas history here.
There has been a renewed focus on reinvigorating the east side of Arlington. Back in the day, Park Plaza Cinema was a beloved part of the center. It opened in 1967 and closed in 1991. From my conversation with folks, the $1 movies at the cinema was a big deal.
Six Flags Mall (now known as Plaza Central) was a popular destination for shopping in Arlington for years. Arlington Police Department’s Safety Town, which was located at the mall, taught children how to be safe.
Ok, so we showed the outside of Arlington Stadium earlier. But how awesome was the scoreboard? Remember this?
Downtown Arlington is striving to be a destination with some of their current initiatives. Back in the day, downtown was a place to see and be seen. Here’s a shot of Main Street. The Arlington Museum of Arlington is located where J.C. Penney used to be.
Today, Arlington Music Hall is a showcase for country music. A who’s who of country stars have graced its stage. This photo of Arlington Music Hall from the early 1950s shows that it was a popular spot to catch a flick.
Remember our article about Arlington facts you may not know? We shared that the first Six Flags opened in Arlington. The park created several rides and attractions over the years. Like this ride, the Sky Hook. The ride was in operation from 1963-1968. Anyone ever ride in it?
Horse racing was alive and well in Arlington at Arlington Downs. Opening in 1929, it featured a 1.25 mile track with a 6,000-seat grandstand. What makes Arlington Downs amazing is horse racing was illegal until 1933. During its first year of full operation under the new laws, 650 horses ran on the track, profits averaged $113,731 a day, and the average daily attendance was 6,734. Candlelite Inn has a mural on an interior wall that includes Arlington Downs. Read more about the history of Arlington Downs here.