Fielder Museum

We are saddened to share that our friend, Brian Burns, passed away on July 4th. Brian was a former board member of the Arlington Historical Society, a dedicated local history advocate, and our webmaster. We are incredibly grateful for his friendship and his many contributions to our organization.

Brian was also a talented singer-songwriter and an engaging storyteller, well-admired by many.

Our thoughts and condolences go out to the Burns family during this difficult time.

We'll share details about the service when they become available.

Marker Monday! Today, we're in East Arlington highlighting the Texas Historical Marker for the historic Friday House. Marion Friday (1885–1958) was a civil engineer who designed Arlington's first water and sewer system. His engineering influence is visible in the home's Prairie Style architecture and wraparound porch.

Built in 1923 by Marion and Willie Friday, the home originally sat on 112 acres of farmland. It was one of Arlington's earliest brick homes and believed to be the first with a concrete driveway. Restoration efforts in the late 1990s highlighted its fine craftsmanship. Recognized for its unique architecture and representation of local growth, the home received its Texas Historical Marker in 1999.

Though remodeled since, it remains a significant link to Arlington's past.

---------------

Fun fact: The house is located at 1906 Ambers Circle off New York Avenue. A 1999 Fort Worth Star-Telegram article notes that neighbors mistakenly thought Friday was from New York, likely due to his occupation. They nicknamed the nearby road New York Avenue, possibly in jest, though it later became its official name.