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(Est. 5 minute read)

Welcome to The Fort Worth Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Live Legendary: A Trent Shelton Experience

• Upcoming Ivan Cornejo event

• A deep-dive into the life of Gene Autry

• And much more…

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Quote of the Week

“Life shrinks or expands in proportion to one’s courage.”

— Anaïs Nin

Important Updates

🎭 Entertainment

Yellowstone's Cole Hauser rides into Fort Worth for sunrise fan event. (link)

📜 Policy

Speakers call for Fort Worth ISD superintendent’s firing, as board members meet privately about performance with district lawyer. (link)

Massive Fort Worth data center surpasses major hurdle, with caveats. (link)

Fort Worth approves $2.79B budget that includes pay raises for first responders and minimum wage city employees. (link)

Upcoming Events

Here are some events that are happening in our city this week. There is a good mix between sports, entertainment, conferences, concerts, and more.

Fort Worth In Film

Movie of the Week: A Ghost Story (2017)

Filming Locations: Filmed in various locations around Fort Worth, including the construction pit of the Frost Tower​.

In A Ghost Story (2017), several key scenes were filmed around Fort Worth, including a notable sequence at the construction pit of Frost Tower. This location provided a stark and eerie backdrop that perfectly matched the film’s contemplative and otherworldly tone. The film, which centers on themes of loss, time, and existence, makes effective use of Fort Worth’s growing urban landscape, highlighting the contrast between the ghost's static presence and the world that continues to develop around him.

In addition to the Frost Tower site, other local spots like Spiral Diner, a popular vegan restaurant, were also incorporated into the film, grounding its more surreal elements in real-world settings. These Fort Worth locations add authenticity and texture to the film's haunting exploration of memory and change, seamlessly blending the city’s environment with the movie’s introspective narrative.

Famous People In Fort Worth History

Gene Autry (1907–1998)

Early Life and Roots in Texas (1907–1929)

Orvon Grover "Gene" Autry was born on September 29, 1907, near Tioga, Texas, and spent part of his youth in Fort Worth. Growing up in rural Texas, Autry learned to play guitar and sing at an early age, inspired by the country and gospel music of his surroundings. Though his family moved around, Texas, particularly Fort Worth, remained an important part of his identity. He briefly worked as a telegraph operator for the railroad, but his passion for music and performing eventually led him to pursue a career in entertainment. It was during this time in Fort Worth that Autry began performing on local radio stations, a stepping stone to his future as one of the most iconic Western performers in American history.

The Rise of "The Singing Cowboy" (1930–1940)

Gene Autry’s big break came in 1929 when he was discovered by famed humorist Will Rogers, who encouraged him to pursue singing professionally. By the early 1930s, Autry had become a radio sensation and began recording hit songs like "That Silver-Haired Daddy of Mine." His smooth voice and charm earned him the title "The Singing Cowboy." Autry’s popularity skyrocketed when he transitioned into film, starring in a series of Western movies where he sang and played the heroic cowboy. His films, filled with music, action, and wholesome values, became incredibly popular, especially during the Great Depression, offering audiences an escape from hard times. Autry’s rise to fame cemented Fort Worth’s connection to one of America’s beloved entertainers.

Connection to Fort Worth and Cultural Impact (1940–1960)

Throughout his career, Gene Autry maintained a strong connection to Fort Worth. The city celebrated his success as a hometown hero, and his Texas roots were a central part of his cowboy persona. Autry’s Western films and music helped shape the image of the American cowboy, and his influence extended beyond entertainment. In Fort Worth, he was remembered as a trailblazer who brought the spirit of Texas to the silver screen. His blend of music, action, and Western values resonated with audiences, and Autry became a cultural icon, inspiring future generations of entertainers. Fort Worth took pride in its association with the star, and Autry’s work reflected the rugged individualism and charm of Texas.

Later Career and Business Ventures (1960–1990)

In addition to his entertainment career, Gene Autry was a savvy businessman. He owned several radio and television stations, as well as the California Angels baseball team. His business ventures allowed him to expand his influence beyond music and film, making him a major figure in the media and sports industries. Despite his success in business, Autry never lost touch with his Fort Worth roots, often returning to Texas for events and to visit friends and family. His ability to balance entertainment and business demonstrated his versatility and ambition, making him a respected figure both on and off the stage.

Legacy and Lasting Impact (1990–1998)

Gene Autry’s legacy as "The Singing Cowboy" endures long after his death in 1998. His contributions to Western film, country music, and American culture have left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. Autry’s wholesome image and strong values made him a role model for millions, and his work continues to be celebrated in Fort Worth and beyond. The Gene Autry Western Heritage Museum in Los Angeles honors his contributions to the Western genre, while Fort Worth remembers him as one of its most famous sons. His legacy as an entertainer, businessman, and cultural icon is still revered today.

Key Achievements:

• Became known as "The Singing Cowboy," starring in numerous Western films and recording hit songs.

• Pioneered the blending of music and film, creating a beloved cowboy persona that resonated with audiences.

• Maintained strong ties to Fort Worth, where his Texas roots were celebrated throughout his life and career.

Gene Autry’s journey from Fort Worth to Hollywood stardom as "The Singing Cowboy" reflects his immense talent and charisma. His strong connection to Fort Worth, combined with his impact on American entertainment, has solidified his place as a cultural icon. Autry’s legacy in country music, Western films, and business continues to inspire, ensuring his lasting influence on generations of entertainers and fans alike.

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-Yannick Lyons

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