Six Flags, 50 years Later-- Part 1

From the July 31st Chicago Tribune by Toni Salama.

Six Flags Over Texas marked its 50th anniversary August 5th and what was expected to last but for a few seasons has really been around awhile now.

In 1961, the controversy between Dallas and Fort Worth for economic supremacy was in full swing causing the small towns between them to struggle. Disneyland, out in California, had been booming for five years already. But a trip there from Texas was 1400 miles (some along Route 66)

The late Angus Wynne, Jr. saw an opportunity for a regional family amusement park with attractions themed for Texas history. He called it Six Flags because the flags of six countries had flown over the state: Spain, France, Mexico, the Republic of Texas, the Confederacy and the United States.

Little Arlington, half way between Dallas and Fort Worth was more than willing to get on board with the project.

It worked and now, the park is a big reason Rangers Ballpark, Cowboys Stadium and a host of hotels and commercial efforts have sprung up in the city.

More to Come. --Cooter