With a present population of 5,800, Kennedale, Texas was settled in the 1860’s to 1870’s at the site of a mineral water well. Oliver Kennedy, for whom the city was named, had a plan to utilize the mineral wells to develop Kennedale as a health resort. However, this plan was never realized. By donating land to Southern Pacific Railroad, he was able to bring a railway to Kennedale. In 1908, the bank, hotel, and other businesses were burned in a fire, leaving behind an old bank vault for the kids to play in for years to come. Kennedale started its first school in 1890, and thus began a legacy of “Wildcat Pride”. The Kennedale Volunteer Fire Department was started in 1949 with a mere $25 donation and the first steel water tower was erected in 1952 thus ending the daily chore of hauling water for many. Kennedale has a proud history due to the time and effort invested by the first residents. It continues its proud heritage to this day.