This post is part of my ‘Historical Markers and Plaques’ series.
Field Notes
- Marker: J. D. Cooper House – Texas Historical Marker
- Location: Fielder Museum (1616 W. Abram Street – Arlington, TX 76013)
- Notes: Marker is located inside Fielder Museum.
J. D. Cooper House
Constructed in 1878 by J. D. Cooper—patriarch of an influential pioneer family—the home stayed in the Cooper family until the 1950s, when it was donated to the City of Arlington, moved near Meadowbrook Park, and became a library. It was then used by the Arlington Woman’s Club for over 30 years. Tragically, the structure was destroyed by fire on Halloween in 1998 and Fielder Museum was honored to take possession of the marker for safekeeping, where we proudly display it in our Cooper Gallery.
The medallion, dated 1965, makes it one of the first historical markers awarded in Arlington. Many early markers like this were concise, often focusing more on architectural details.
The marker’s ‘square nails’ mention may seem odd, but it’s a key detail in dating the structure. Square nails were commonly used through the late 1890s, with round nails becoming more prominent soon after.
In addition to the marker, here is a 1966 newspaper clipping. Few photos of the home show the marker displayed, though this one does. It’s located near the downstairs window on the left.
J. D. Cooper House – Texas Historical Marker
J. D. Cooper Home
Fort Worth Star-Telegram – September 19, 1966
Newspapers.com
Marker text
“Built 1878 by J. D. Cooper, early landowner. Colonial design with square nails, wide board floors. Moved here by City. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark, 1965.”
Blog post by Jason S. Sullivan, 10-27-25
Jason S. Sullivan 