Dallas surrounds Highland Park on its southern, eastern, and western sides, while the city of University Park lies to its north. Highland Park and University Park collectively form the Park Cities, which is a separate area within Dallas.
In 1889, a group of investors from Philadelphia, known as the Philadelphia Place Land Association, purchased a tract of land in what is now Highland Park for approximately $377 per acre, totaling $500,000. Henry Exall, an agent representing the group, had plans to develop the land along Turtle Creek into an exclusive residential area modeled after parkland communities in Philadelphia. Exall began by constructing gravel roads and damming Turtle Creek, creating Exall Lake. However, his plans were thwarted by the Panic of 1893, a financial crisis that brought a halt to development. Afterwards, Exall turned to horse breeding, and Exall Lake became a popular destination for picnics among Dallas residents during the 1890s.
Based on data from the United States Census Bureau, Highland Park spans a land area of 2.2 square miles, with no water bodies. It is situated around 3 miles north of the central area of Dallas
The streets of Highland Park are adorned with trees. Originally known as Old Highland, this area consists of several sections including the First Section, Second Section, Turtle Creek Acreage, Acreage Section, Third Section, Fourth Section, and the Hackberry Creek Acreage of Old Highland Park. Following this, the neighborhoods west of Preston were also developed in Highland Park.
Hot and humid summers and typically mild to cool winters are the defining features of the climate in this region.
In 2020, the population was predominantly non-Hispanic White (85.21%), with smaller percentages of Black (0.83%), Native American or Alaska Native (0.02%), Asian (4.57%), and residents identifying with other races or ethnicities (0.2%). Additionally, 3.91% of the population identified as multiracial, and 5.25% identified as Hispanic or Latino, regardless of race.
.The shopping center known as Highland Park Village can be found within the town’s borders. Additionally, the community hosts the Highland Park Centennial Literary Festival.
You’ll find the Dallas Country Club in this location.
The political landscape of the town has shifted over the years, with a noticeable decline in the Republican majority. In 1984, Ronald Reagan enjoyed widespread support, garnering 89% of the vote, while George W. Bush, a native of Texas, received 78% of the vote in 2004. More recently, Donald Trump secured 63% of the vote in 2020, indicating a significant decrease in Republican support.
Highland Park is divided into sections and these sections are served by three elementary schools which are Armstrong, Boone, and Bradfield.
The Highland Park Public Library is situated near the Highland Park Town Hall. The library’s building, which also houses an art gallery, was first established in 1930. Over time, the art gallery was transformed into a space for town council meetings and a section of the library. In 2008, the library underwent significant renovations.
In Highland Park, the public safety department substitutes for the conventional police and fire/EMS departments. The officers are trained and certified to perform as firefighters, peace officers, and paramedics. They work long 24-hour shifts, rotating their responsibilities throughout the day, and enjoy the next two days off.
Prominent individuals in Highland Park include Bill Clements, who served as the nd and 44th Governor of Texas. Armie Hammer, known for his role in Call Me By Your Name, resided in Highland Park during his childhood. Angie Harmon, the actress from Rizzoli & Isles, was born in Highland Park. Gino Hernandez, a former professional wrestler, is also from the area. Other notable figures include Jerry Jones, the owner of the Dallas Cowboys, Clayton Kershaw, a pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers, and Bobby Layne, a quarterback for the Detroit Lions. Mariano Martinez, recognized as an inventor, entrepreneur, restaurateur, and creative artist, is associated with Highland Park. Peter O’Donnell, an investor, philanthropist, and former Republican Party state chairman, was raised in the area. Matthew Stafford, the current quarterback for the Los Angeles Rams, and Marty Turco, a Canadian hockey player who played for the Dallas Stars, also have ties to Highland Park. Additionally, the fictional character Claire Underwood from the TV series House of Cards was raised in Highland Park. Lastly, Scottie Scheffler, a professional golfer, achieved the title of 2022 PGA Masters Champion.