John Peter Smith

John Peter Smith (September 16, 1831 – April 11, 1901), known as the 'Father of Fort Worth', was born in Owen County, Kentucky, to Samuel and Polly (Bond) Smith. Smith was instrumental in the early prosperity of the city of Fort Worth, its establishment as the Tarrant County seat, and the creation of the county's only public hospital which still bears his name.

Early life Smith and his five brothers were orphaned in 1844 after the death of their parents.

Career As an adult, he moved in 1853 to the Texas Territory, making Fort Worth his home. He opened the city's first school in 1854 followed by forming a bank, gas light company, and street railway.

A competition for the site of the Tarrant County seat arose in 1853 between the burgeoning cities of Fort Worth and Birdville, lasting for seven years and causing several fights and fatal duels. Smith successfully lobbied to move the county seat to his city.

Smith became mayor of Fort Worth in 1882, An attacker mugged him, and he later succumbed to his injuries. thumb Citizens erected a marble bust, the John Peter Smith Monument, near St. Patrick's Cathedral in his honor.