The historic Armour Building, headquarters of U.S. Energy Development Corporation, has received a Preservation Project Award from Historic Fort Worth Inc. for its comprehensive restoration that honors the city’s architectural and economic heritage. The award ceremony on October 16 recognized the building’s significance in the Fort Worth Stockyards Historic District and its contribution to preserving the city’s industrial past while supporting contemporary business operations.
Located at 601 East Exchange Avenue in the heart of the Fort Worth Stockyards, the Armour Building represents International Style industrial architecture and stands as the sole survivor of the once expansive Armour & Co. Packing Plant complex. The building has served as a hub for industrial innovation and community growth for decades, playing a pivotal role in Fort Worth’s economic development during the city’s meatpacking era.
Jordan Jayson, CEO and Chairman of USEDC, emphasized the building’s broader significance, stating that it serves as a living symbol of Fort Worth’s resilience and entrepreneurial spirit. The preservation and revitalization of this historic site allows the company to honor Fort Worth’s past while contributing to its future as a thriving, connected city. The restoration project represents a careful balance between maintaining historical integrity and incorporating modern amenities necessary for current business operations.
The comprehensive remodel was led by The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company as general contractor and Bennett Partners as architect and interior designer. U.S. Property Development, an affiliate of USEDC, consulted on the project and now actively manages the property. The restoration focused on preserving the building’s historic character while making it functional for modern corporate use, demonstrating how historic preservation can coexist with contemporary business needs.
In celebration of the award achievement, USEDC hosted a special Armour Celebration event on October 18 that brought together owners, team members, architectural and construction partners, and others involved in the restoration. The event provided an opportunity for attendees to share the space with their families and collectively honor the building’s legacy within the Fort Worth Stockyards Historic District. For more information about USEDC’s operations and projects, visit https://usedc.com.
The Preservation Project Award highlights the growing importance of historic preservation in urban development, particularly in cities like Fort Worth where industrial heritage plays a crucial role in community identity. The Armour Building’s restoration serves as a model for how historic structures can be adaptively reused while maintaining their architectural and historical significance, contributing to both cultural preservation and economic vitality in urban centers.