Historical Site of 'Top O' Hill Terrace' Casino (1930s-40s) (Arlington, Texas)

USA / Texas / Pantego / Arlington, Texas
 gambling, casino, place with historical importance, depression (geology), interesting place, historical layer / disappeared object
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In 1926, Fred and Mary Browning purchased the property and shortly began converting the facilities into a casino, adding an escape tunnel and secret room for hiding the gambling paraphernalia during raids. Known as Top O' Hill Terrace, the popular spot attracted gamblers as well as visitors who were often unaware of the gaming activities. The restaurant, along with the tea garden that exists today, was a legitimate business, operating alongside a brothel as well as the casino, which benefited from the nearby Arlington Downs racetrack. Top O' Hill Terrace facilities included a horse barn and a private stable for Browning's prized stud, Royal Ford, purchased from oilman and Arlington Downs owner W.T. Waggoner. At its peak, Top O' Hill Terrace was the most lavish gambling establishment in the United States.

Contemporary to the Top O' Hill heyday was the outspoken Dr. J. Frank Norris (d. 1952), longtime pastor of First Baptist Church of Fort Worth. The conservative Norris was an ardent proponent of Prohibition and gambling reform. One of his targets was Top O' Hill Terrace, which he reportedly vowed one day to own. In 1947, Texas Ranger Captain M.T. "Lone Wolf" Gonzaullas led a raid on Top O' Hill, catching the gambling operation in full swing.

In one of the typical cultural ironies that comprise the history of Texas, the 35 acres that once comprised the Browning Estate and Top O' the Hill Terrace now are the home to Arlington Baptist College, a four-year private Baptist seminary and college. John Birch, namesake for the ultra-conservative John Birch Society. was one of the school's first graduates in 1940.

(Source: www.arlingtontx.gov/history/historic_buildings.html ; atlas.thc.state.tx.us/common/viewform.asp?atlas_num=543...'+Hill+Terrace&class=5000
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Coordinates:   32°44'27"N   97°9'24"W

Comments

  • Top O’ Hill Casino was taking in over a half a million dollars on weekends In the depth of the Great Depression while Las Vegas was but a dusty crossroad in Nevada. (source:http://www.dcarb.com/dallas_history/j_frank_norris.htm )
This article was last modified 12 years ago