Introduction
Fort Worth, Texas, affectionately known as "Panther City," boasts a rich history and a unique moniker that has intrigued residents and visitors alike for over a century. This nickname, a source of pride and identity for the city, originated from a peculiar anecdote involving a panther. Over time, it has become a symbol of Fort Worth's resilience and spirit.

The Birth of Panther City
The story of Fort Worth’s nickname dates back to the late 19th century. In 1875, the city was grappling with an economic downturn caused by the Panic of 1873. Businesses shuttered, and the once-bustling town teetered on the edge of becoming a ghost town.
The Infamous Newspaper Article
A turning point came in December 1875 when Robert E. Cowart, a lawyer and journalist from Dallas, wrote a tongue-in-cheek article for the Dallas Daily Herald. In the piece, Cowart claimed that Fort Worth was so deserted that a panther had been seen sleeping undisturbed in the middle of Main Street. He wrote:
“Things have come to a pretty pass in Fort Worth. Our sister city has been so dead that a panther was seen sleeping in the streets, and no one even bothered to chase it away.”
Embracing the Panther
Instead of taking offense, the residents of Fort Worth embraced the panther as a symbol of their determination to rebound from adversity. A local newspaper, the Fort Worth Democrat, humorously responded to Cowart's article, stating:
“Yes, a panther was seen sleeping on Main Street, but it was simply a testament to the peace and tranquility of our city.”
The Panther as a Symbol of Resilience
The nickname "Panther City" gained traction, with the panther becoming a powerful emblem of Fort Worth’s strength and perseverance. The community began incorporating the symbol into various aspects of civic life.
The Panther’s Influence on Fort Worth
The Panther City Club
In 1876, local businessmen and civic leaders formed the Panther City Club, adopting the panther as its emblem. The club played a pivotal role in promoting the city’s growth and prosperity, proudly displaying the panther on stationery and badges.
City Emblem and Statues
In 1912, Fort Worth officially adopted the panther as its emblem. Statues and sculptures of panthers were commissioned and placed around the city as enduring reminders of Fort Worth’s tenacity and spirit.
The Panther in Popular Culture
Over the years, the nickname "Panther City" has permeated popular culture. The Fort Worth Cats, a minor league baseball team, featured a panther on their uniforms to honor the city’s identity. Similarly, local businesses have incorporated the panther into logos and branding, fostering a sense of unity and pride.
Newspaper Articles Highlighting the Panther
Newspapers from the late 19th and early 20th centuries document the widespread affection for the panther symbol. For example, the Fort Worth Gazette noted in 1890:
“The panther has become a beloved symbol of our city’s resilience and strength. From Main Street to the Stockyards, the panther represents the fighting spirit of Fort Worth.”
In 1910, the Fort Worth Star-Telegram echoed this sentiment:
“The people of Fort Worth have embraced the panther as a symbol of their city’s rebirth. It is a testament to the unwavering determination of our citizens to overcome any obstacle.”
Why Fort Worth Loves the Panther
The people of Fort Worth have a deep affection for the nickname "Panther City" because it represents their history, resilience, and community spirit. The panther is a powerful metaphor for overcoming challenges and emerging stronger—qualities that define the city’s character.
A Symbol of Unity
The panther has become a unifying symbol, bringing together people from diverse backgrounds and fostering pride in their shared heritage. Whether through sports teams, local businesses, or community organizations, the panther continues to inspire and unite Fort Worth.
A Legacy of Resilience
The nickname "Panther City" is a poignant reminder of Fort Worth’s transformation from a struggling frontier town to a thriving metropolis. The panther embodies the city’s ability to adapt, persevere, and thrive in the face of adversity. This legacy of resilience is cherished and celebrated by the people of Fort Worth, ensuring that the spirit of Panther City endures for generations to come.
Through humor and civic pride, Fort Worth turned a seemingly negative anecdote into a powerful symbol of strength and unity. Today, the panther remains a beloved emblem, representing the community’s determination to overcome challenges and embrace a bright future.

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