THE STORY OF THE SLEEPING PANTHER
Panther City Marketing proudly draws its name from the enduring legend of the sleeping panther, a narrative deeply etched into the heart of Fort Worth, both figuratively and literally. This tale harks back to 1873, during a period of nationwide economic depression, when many speculated that Fort Worth’s economic prospects were bleak. It was during this time that Robert E. Cowart, a former resident turned Dallas attorney, penned a letter to the Dallas Herald. Cowart’s letter described Fort Worth as being so tranquil that he witnessed a panther sleeping undisturbed on Main Street, amidst an eerie silence devoid of trade or the hustle of people.
Rather than disheartening the citizens of Fort Worth, his depiction ignited a spark of resilience. B.B. Paddock, the editor of the ‘Fort Worth Democrat,’ saw Cowart’s words not as mockery but as a challenge. Embracing the panther symbol, he had the newspaper’s masthead redesigned to feature a panther lying peacefully in front of the city’s bluff, accompanied by the motto “Where the Panther Laid Down.” This supposed slight transformed into a powerful emblem of the city’s indomitable spirit.
The panther motif has since become an intrinsic part of Fort Worth’s identity, adorning various facets of the cityscape and community life. From the architectural accents on downtown buildings like the Flatiron and the Intermodal Transportation Center to the emblems on Fort Worth Police badges and fire trucks, the panther’s presence is ubiquitous. It also roars to life as the mascot for Paschal High School students and the Panther City lacrosse fans, symbolizing a collective identity that thrives on strength and resilience.
At Panther City Marketing, we are inspired by this profound legacy. The story of the sleeping panther, far from a mere anecdote of the past, is a testament to Fort Worth’s ability to transform challenges into opportunities for growth and innovation. It’s this spirit of resilience, readiness to face the future, and the potential for dynamic growth that Panther City Marketing was founded upon.
Just like the city that embraces the quiet strength of its symbolic panther, we too are poised to help our clients leap forward, embracing their unique challenges with strategic prowess and creative resilience.
