The Texas Theater in Oak Cliff has a permanent place in U.S. history. It was inside this Dallas cinema that Lee Harvey Oswald, the alleged assassin of President John F. Kennedy, was arrested on November 22, 1963. We first covered the theater back in February 2020. This refreshed timeline looks at its transformation across the decades, starting with the earliest clear photos and leading up to today.
1963 – Oswald’s Arrest
This image shows Lee Harvey Oswald being arrested at the Texas Theater less than two hours after the assassination of JFK on November 22, 1963. The photo, taken by a police officer, captured the moment at the theater entrance.
1964 – Color View by Richard O. Barry
This color photograph, taken four months after the assassination in 1964, shows the Texas Theater with its distinctive tower and marquee. Businesses like National Tire Shops stood next door, illustrating the Oak Cliff neighborhood’s commercial character at the time.
1964 – Black and White Street Scene
Another 1964 view shows the theater with “The Victors” on the marquee. Classic cars line Jefferson Boulevard, while the tower and marquee still dominate the block. The Texas Theater was still an active first-run cinema, even under the weight of its newfound historical significance.
February 2020 – Restored Theater
Modern photos from 2020 show the Texas Theater restored, though the rooftop tower seen in the 1960s has been removed. The bright red ticket booth, bold marquee, and fresh paint highlight its revival as both a cinema and a cultural landmark.
2025 – Still a Landmark
As of 2025, the Texas Theater continues to serve Oak Cliff as a working theater and cultural venue. Its connection to the JFK story ensures worldwide recognition, while its ongoing use keeps it tied to the local community.
Last Updated on October 2, 2025 by F.E.M