It was a historic day when the first car rolled off the assembly line at Arlington’s General Motors plant. A shiny, 1954 Pontiac was first—over 13 million vehicles have followed.

Getting the GM plant was a pivotal moment in Arlington’s history. Their arrival paved the way for the Great Southwest Industrial District, Six Flags Over Texas, the Texas Rangers, and likely even the Dallas Cowboys. Indeed, Arlington would be a much different city today without GM, and we’re fortunate that they have stayed here for over 70 years as part of our community.

“Arlington G.M. Plant Rolls First Car Off Finish Line”
Fort Worth Star-Telegram – January 7, 1954
Newspapers.com

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Blog post by Jason S. Sullivan, 10-18-25