River Oaks has deep roots in Texas history. With a population size of less than 10,000 people, it is one of the smallest cities in Tarrant County. With tree-lined rivers and beautiful oak trees, it is also one of the most picturesque. There are many reasons why residents enjoy life in River Oaks. Its smaller size makes it appealing for those who want to escape the busier pace of life in Dallas and Fort Worth. However, it is also close enough to both cities that residents can enjoy the amenities found in the Dallas-Fort Worth region, too.
River Oaks' Roots
River Oaks was settled around 1840 and incorporated in the late 1840s. The first settler, a man named James Ventioner, constructed the first structure and residence in the city, which was a log cabin. He purchased a large tract of land around the house, which was used to start a farming operation. The farm's location is now the present-day site of many amenities in the city, including a high school and part of the town center. Although many of these amenities surfaced later on with the arrival of more settlers, Ventioner jump-started the city's development by donating a portion of his land to the present-day Castleberry Elementary School. The school's foundation was initially the housing site of the Castleberry family, which was another prominent family in the River Oaks area.
Like Ventioner, the Castleberry family donated some of their land to foster the city's growth. That land was the site for a water well, which supplied a vital source of water first to the family's farm and later to the schoolhouse. Both families cited a draw to the River Oaks based on the availability of open land and the area's natural beauty, particularly the stately oak trees for which the city is known.
Development quickly followed after these two families moved to town. In the year after the two founding families arrived, many more followed suit. The arrival of more settlers brought more working farms to the area and a more stable economy. It also meant that there was more of a demand to have a formal community. Therefore, the settlers chose to initially incorporate River Oaks as a village, which was made official in 1841. Five years later, the town's population size increased to the point where residents decided to restructure the town to a city instead. Their request to call River Oaks a "city" was formally adopted in 1849 when the area had a population size of just under 7,000 people.
Over the years, River Oaks' economic landscape transitioned from one dominated by open farmlands and fields to one comprised primarily of aviation and industrial activities. The arrival of the Carswell Air Force station in the early 1990s served as a joint operation center for the Texas National Guard, Air Force, Navy, and Marines. With all of these branches operating out of River Oaks, the city's population and economy surged. Today, the base still exists and continues to support the economy. Now, however, it is owned by the Navy.
River Oaks Events
While it is a comparatively small city, there is never a shortage of things to do in River Oaks. Instead, it is a place with an activity-packed community calendar. Whether you're a resident or just in town visiting, there's no shortage of things to enjoy here.
Classic Car Show
In May, the River Oaks Community Center becomes a stage for the annual classic car show. Vintage car collectors, owners, and enthusiasts alike merge at the event to celebrate some of the oldest cars in the area. This event is also kid-friendly and features games, children's activities, and sporting events like basketball, too. Food and beverages are offered for sale at the car show. The event is free for the public, and both residents and visitors are encouraged to attend.
Summer Craft Fair
Many towns and cities have their own unique ways of celebrating the start of the summer season. For River Oaks, the seasonal celebration starts with a craft fair. Every year at the end of May, residents, and visitors attend the fair to shop for beautiful new artwork. Children, meanwhile, can enjoy water slides and games.
Perhaps you have some beautiful oak trees in your yard that drew settlers to River Oaks in the first place. These trees and your entire property deserve special care and attention to grow their best. If you need help managing your yard, contact Lawn Love, your local lawn care experts.
