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The Time Traveler of Fort Worth: How Jerre Tracy Keeps History Alive

Updated: Mar 22


Quote by Jerre Tracy

Picture a sprawling Texas city where skyscrapers stand shoulder-to-shoulder with buildings that have witnessed over a century of history. Welcome to Fort Worth, Texas a place where the past and present dance in harmony across 355 square miles. But who keeps this delicate balance from tipping too far toward the shiny and new?


Enter Jerre Tracy, an unsung hero with an unusual mission: saving Fort Worth's soul, one historic building at a time. As the Executive Director of Historic Fort Worth, Inc., she is dedicated to preserving the city's rich tapestry of stories. She has spent over two decades as a tireless guardian of the city's unique character.


Imagine being a time traveler with the power to protect the most fascinating parts of history. That is her job in a nutshell. Whether it is a Victorian mansion with secrets to tell or an old theater where cowboys once watched silent films, she fights to keep these pieces of the past alive for future generations to explore and enjoy.


Curious about how you could become a hero in your own town's history? Or just fascinated by the idea of a modern city that refuses to forget its roots? Her insights offer inspiration for anyone who has ever looked at an old building and thought,


Jerre Tracy Headshot
Jerre Tracy




"There's a story

here that deserves

to be told."









 

The Importance of Passion in Preservation


Jerre's commitment to her role is evident in her words:


"You have to have passion for this work. Because you will not stay in it if you do not. It cannot just be a job; it has to be who you are." 

This level of dedication is crucial in a field that often faces challenges and requires persistence. For those considering a career or volunteer role in historic preservation, her advice is clear:


"It just can't be a paycheck. You really must understand ‘the why’ of historic preservation." 

This understanding of purpose is what drives preservationists to put in the long hours and face the many obstacles that come with fighting to protect historic sites.


One of the most encouraging aspects of Jerre's experience is the change she has witnessed in public awareness.


"It's a different conversation because people have started reading and experiencing more, seen bad and some good things, and are generally more informed. It has become a better discussion."

This increased awareness is not limited to Fort Worth; as she points out, "You're seeing it everywhere. People are starting to pay attention!"


This shift in public consciousness presents a unique opportunity for preservation organizations and community members alike. As more people recognize the value of historic buildings and neighborhoods, there's greater potential for support and involvement in preservation efforts. She shares:


"In the State of Texas, Fort Worth has the second largest inventory of designated historical buildings, behind San Antonio." 

This statistic underscores the importance of organizations like Historic Fort Worth, Inc. in safeguarding the city's architectural heritage.


 

The Challenges and Rewards of Preservation Work


Her path to her current role is a testament to the power of volunteering and lifelong learning. With a background in education and family ties to Fort Worth's development, Jerre's path to preservation leadership was paved with diverse experiences. She recalls,


"I became involved with the Ball-Eddleman-McFarland House through the Junior League, served on their preservation committee, and learned about what happens in an old building."

This early exposure led to more significant roles, including chairing the 1995 National Trust for Historic Preservation Conference held in Fort Worth.


Her commitment to continued education is evident in her pursuit of professional development opportunities, including preservation leadership training, conferences, and training sessions over the years.


She believes that preservation work is not for the faint of heart and describes it as being at times, “a workaholic job" that requires a full commitment, adding, "I'm here on the weekend, yes, almost every Saturday and Sunday to stay on top of what is happening."


However, the rewards of this dedication are significant. She emphasizes the continuous learning opportunities:


"You're constantly learning from others, and it's those relationships you build that are going to be long-lasting."

 

 Courage and Persistence in Advocacy Work


Her experience extends beyond preservation, encompassing a wide range of community involvement.


"I've also been involved with United Way. I know the community and the struggles with it and the haves and the have-nots."

This broader perspective informs her approach to preservation, understanding its place within the larger community context. Her advice for others?


"I think there's a big world out there if you're willing to volunteer that will allow you to sample different types of cultures and learning." 

This diverse experience can provide valuable insights and connections for those interested in preservation work.


And for those inspired to get involved in preservation efforts, she offers valuable insights. "Caring passionately about something in our city and then learning how to communicate why it should matter to others is an important skill," she says, highlighting the importance of passion and effective communication.


She emphasizes the need for courage and persistence in advocacy work.


"All you can do is lose on a point. If you want to save a building that is worth your breath, the worst that can happen is you do not win, right? But you must be willing to fight for what you believe in." 

This perspective can help advocates push through challenges and setbacks.


Jerre believes that being able to explain complex issues in simple terms is also a valuable skill in advocacy work. "Preservation is just an anomaly of complexity," she notes. It involves various aspects, including development, economic incentives, archival work, and more. For those looking to get involved, understanding this complexity is crucial.


 

8 Ways to Learn More About Preserving History


For community members interested in preserving their city's historic areas and buildings, here are some steps to get started:


1. Educate yourself: Learn about your city's history and architectural heritage. Many local libraries and historical societies offer resources and classes.


2. Join local preservation organizations: Organizations like Historic Fort Worth, Inc. are perfect examples of groups that welcome new members.


3. Attend city council meetings: Stay informed about development plans and voice your support for preservation efforts.


4. Volunteer: Many historic sites and preservation organizations need volunteers for various tasks, from tour guides to research assistants.


5. Advocate: Speak up for preservation in your community. Write letters to local officials, attend public hearings, and share information on social media.


6. Support local preservation efforts: Donate to preservation organizations or participate in fundraising events.


7. Learn about tax incentives: Many areas offer tax incentives for restoring historic properties. Understanding these can help you advocate for preservation more effectively.


8. Network: Connect with like-minded individuals and professionals in the field. Attend preservation conferences and workshops when possible.

 

 

The Ongoing Importance of Historic Preservation


As Jerre's story shows, being a guardian of history is not about bricks and mortar - it is about keeping the heart of a community beating strong. Her work is a delicate dance of passion, perseverance, and diplomacy, bringing together city officials, property owners, and history buffs to create a shared vision of Fort Worth's future that honors its past.


But there is more to it than nostalgia. Her efforts prove that honoring history can be a powerful economic engine, breathing new life into old neighborhoods and attracting visitors eager to step back in time.


Feeling inspired to become a time traveler in your town? You do not need a fancy title to make a difference. From volunteering at local museums to speaking up at city council meetings, there are countless ways to join the ranks of history's defenders. Who knows? The quaint old house down the street might be the next chapter in your community's story, just waiting for someone like you to help tell it.


 

Additional Information


Look at these resources and organizations mentioned by Jerre:


The Community Positive Project

Connect@CommunityPositive.com

©2024-2025 by The Community Positive Project. 

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