Historic protections failed to save one of Fort Worth's lodges that welcomed Black guests during the Jim Crow era, and now it faces demolition. The Vickery Motel, once a refuge for African-American travelers, cannot be considered a Historic and Cultural Landmark, Fort Worth's Historic Preservation department decided. Deemed to not meet enough criteria, its razing permit, issued on Jan. 2, set the stage for its undoing, according to the Fort Worth Star-Telegram.
Despite its historical hospitality to Black patrons and proximity to the predominantly African-American neighborhood of Como, the property only scored two out of the eight criteria for significance, and just as many in terms of integrity. "Due to the loss of historic material and advanced deterioration, the structure does not retain the integrity necessary to convey its significance," was the official word per Fort Worth's report. Nevertheless, the Como neighborhood is aiming to secure a historical marker in remembrance of the site, per the Fort Worth Star-Telegram.
Meanwhile, Dallas preserves one motel’s legacy as a haven for black travelers. The Inn of the Dove, previously known as the Ranch Motel, stands out as a living testament to a time when such establishments were essential for African-American motorists seeking safe lodgings amidst the perils of segregation. "It changes your perspective," said Tony Patel, when he learned of the building's historical significance through its Green Book listing, as per the Longview News-Journal.
Historic preservation officers, like Jennifer Anderson of Dallas City Hall, believe it's crucial to maintain such buildings to keep the stories alive. She said it endears the property to people "once they know what this place meant for people," during her visit to the property with a journalist. In stark contrast to Vickery Motel’s fate, the Inn of the Dove owner, Ramesh Patel, was admired by preservationists for refusing to alter the motel’s historic exterior, despite suggestions to update it with modern touches like stucco, according to the Longview News-Journal.
