Understanding the potential economic impact of the automobile, Garland got to work early on its road system. In 1919 Texas Bankhead Highway Association Secretary Arthur P. Dyer noted that Garland was the only town on the Texas route which had voluntarily organized and gone to work without asking for outside help. In 1920, several car dealerships opened, likely in response to the growing tourism and the town’s increasing prosperity. Other businesses soon followed and Garland quickly became a pit-stop for tourists on their way to larger destinations. In response to this, many improvements were made, including constructing a concrete bridge over Duck Creek on the west side of town. Increased traffic passing through Garland for the Texas Centennial Celebration in Dallas in 1936 led to more improvements, including widening the highway through downtown and installing signs at the city limits that read “Entering Garland, the City of Beautiful Homes.” Garland hosts many community events during year, and you’re sure to find a hopping city any time you visit.

More Locations in Garland

Auto Sales Dealership
316 Main St.

To sell the most modern and best cars, you want to showcase them in the most modern buildings of the time. This 1940s dealership followed note and showcased its cars in this Streamlined Moderne Style building. Though hard to believe this was once a dealership, it would have been one of the fanciest in the 1940s.

Auto Sales Dealership
301 S. Garland Ave.

Not all car dealerships are created equal. This 1960s dealership on South Garland Avenue proves just that. Even if you aren’t in the market for a new car, you’ll want to check out this building for its 1960s futuristic design.

Motel
2413 S. Garland Ave.

Illuminated block sign? Check. Geometric concrete screens? Check. All the makings of a 1960s motel created to draw in the automobile travelers are intact at this Garland motel.