Arlington Unveils New Banners Celebrating City’s 150th Anniversary
Published on April 10, 2026
By Office of Communication
The City of Arlington and the Downtown Arlington Management Corporation have launched a new banner installation to celebrate Arlington’s 150th anniversary, unveiling designs now displayed at City Hall and along Abram Street between Collins and Cooper streets.
The banners, created by designer Lauren Jane Carter of LJ Carter Creative, feature five distinct designs highlighting the theme “Celebrating 150 Years of Arlington – Where It All Began.” A sixth design commemorates the nation’s 250th anniversary as communities across the country prepare for the semiquincentennial.
On July 19, 1876, historians recorded that Texas and Pacific Railroad Engine No. 20 arrived in what is now called Arlington. The Rev. A.S. Hayter is credited with surveying the land for the railroad company. The railway’s arrival, “Where It All Began,” served as a catalyst that transformed a small frontier settlement into a thriving major city in the nation.
Artwork incorporated into the banners was provided by The University of Texas at Arlington Libraries’ Special Collections. Historic imagery featured in the designs includes the national anthem performance at the General Motors Arlington Assembly groundbreaking in 1952, the Texas & Pacific Engine No. 39 train from the 1880s, the Arlington Theatre in 1955, the Texan Theatre in 1947, Mineral Well scenes from the 1910s and 1930s, and the North Texas Fair in Downtown Arlington in 1946.
Celebrating 150 Years of Arlington
Celebrating 150 Years of The American Dream City
Honoring 250 Years of America
Exterior banners are installed on the south side of City Hall, with additional interior displays welcoming visitors inside the building. New banners also line the Abram Street corridor through Downtown Arlington.
These banners were made possible thanks to a generous donation from the Arlington Tomorrow Foundation.
City officials say the installation is one of many projects planned throughout 2026 to honor Arlington’s sesquicentennial and celebrate key moments that shaped the community.
Visit Arlington150.com for more historical articles, photos and events planned throughout 2026.