History of Bridgeport

Bridgeport, a city of approximately 5,800, is located some 45 miles northwest of Fort Worth. The city had its beginnings in 1860 when a toll bridge was constructed across the Trinity River to allow the Butterfield Stage to cross on its San Francisco to St. Louis run. It is believed that Bridgeport acquired its name because it served as a port for those traveling the river. The tradition of the Butterfield Stage continues each spring with the Butterfield Stage Days Festival.

Much of the early history of Bridgeport is closely tied to the discovery of coal in the late 1800's. This rich coal mining heritage is celebrated each year at the Coal Miners' Festival held in October.

In 1929, the construction of a dam across the Trinity River west of Bridgeport resulted in the creation of beautiful Lake Bridgeport. Today, the lake affords many opportunities for entertainment and enjoyment.

The discovery of oil and gas in the 1950's contributed to a flourishing economy and resulted in a growth in population. This oil and gas production, along with the rock industry, remains an important factor in Bridgeport's economy today.

Today, Bridgeport is a progressive city with deep roots in its rich heritage. The community has an excellent school system along with many fine churches and civic organizations. Bridgeport is an interesting place to visit and a great place to call home.

 

Downtown Bridgeport

Where you can shop, dine and be entertained!

Historic downtown Bridgeport is one of North Texas' best kept secrets! Although both main roads into Bridgeport bypass our downtown, what you'll find on Halsell Street at the heart of our community is worth looking for.

Downtown Bridgeport is three full blocks of small-town Texas, complete with unique gift shops, a variety of custom-made goods and delicious dining. We were named a Texas Main Street City by the Texas Historical Commission in 2006 and a National Main Street City in 2007. What that means to visitors and newcomers is that the City of Bridgeport and its residents are committed to preserving our historic business district, both architecturally and economically. Extensive improvements have recently been added to the Bridgeport Stage, a versatile performance and meeting facility conveniently located right in the middle of downtown, and a public parking lot behind the Stage has added much needed parking to the downtown business district. Several downtown businesses have been able to utilize grant money to restore their building facades to their original appearance.

Bridgeport Main Street welcomes you downtown where our past is cherished, the present celebrated and the future eagerly anticipated! For more information on downtown activities, go to www.cityofbridgeport.net/mainstreet or call (940) 683-3485.

 

Entertainment

If theater is more your interest, we are fortunate to have a theatrical group in Bridgeport, the Off 380 Players. They perform several plays throughout the year in our historical downtown theater, the Bridgeport Stage.

Several times a year, the Chamber sponsors and co-sponsors events throughout the city such as Coal Miners' Heritage Festival, Butterfield Stage Days, PRCA Rodeo, Carnival, Barnet Shale Clay Shoot, and the list goes on and on. Each of these activities offers fun for the entire family.

 

Parks & Recreation

The mission of Bridgeport's Parks and Recreation Department is to enhance the quality of life in our community by developing, maintaining, renovating, and preserving quality city parkways, parks, open space, and recreational facilities. It is further our mission to facilitate recreational opportunities and amenities which will be safe and secure for the benefit of all ages.

The City of Bridgeport offers many opportunities within parks and recreation through Harwood and Payne Park, the community swimming pool, the Bridgeport Community Center, and the soon to be built ATV and hiking trail system. The Parks and Recreation Department also offers recreational activities.

Harwood Park

Harwood Park is 8.3 acres of park land and is located in the heart of Bridgeport at 707 Hovey Street. With help from the Texas Parks and Wildlife's Small Community Grant, Harwood Park underwent major improvements in the summer of 2007. The park has 2 playground structures, picnic tables, barbecue pits, horseshoe pits, open space for play, a lighted walking trail, and a pavilion for rentals. Harwood Park is also home to the Bridgeport Swimming Pool.

Payne Park

Payne Park is 1.3 acres of park land and is located in the west side of Bridgeport at 409 West Cates Street. It is also the home of the City's Skate Park. Other amenities include picnic tables, playground equipment, a basketball court, a volleyball court, and open play area. Renovations of the playground equipment have recently been completed.

Recreational Activities

The Parks and Recreation Department offers an abundance of recreational activities for all ages. Some of those activities include the Summer Camp, After School Program, activities at the Swimming Pool, and Special Events, such as Breakfast with Santa and Dad and Daughter Dance. Additionally, the Lawdwin Ball Fields have recently been upgraded.

So start enjoying the wonderful opportunities provided by the Bridgeport Parks and Recreation today!

Phone : (940) 683-3480
Website : www.cityofbridgeport.net/parks&rec