The park’s name was a nod to the six flags that had flown over the state at various times–France, Spain, Mexico, the Confederacy, Texas and the United States. One of Six Flags’ unique aspects was that it wasn’t just a random collection of rides it was developed around a theme: the history of Texas. Today, average annual attendance at the park is over 3 million. With 17.5 million visitors in its first 10 years, the park became the Lone Star State’s top for-profit tourist attraction. Wynne reportedly recouped his personal investment of $3.5 million within 18 months and changed his mind about the park’s temporary status.
The park, which took a year and $10 million to build, was the brainchild of Texas real estate developer and oilman Angus Wynne Jr., who viewed it as a short-term way to make a buck from some vacant land before turning it into an industrial complex. A hamburger sold for 50 cents and a soda set the buyer back a dime.
During its opening year, a day at Six Flags cost $2.75 for an adult and $2.25 for a child. The park also pioneered the concept of all-inclusive admission price until then, separate entrance fees and individual ride tickets were the standard. Located on 212 acres in Arlington, Texas, the park was the first to feature log flume and mine train rides and later, the first 360-degree looping roller coaster, modern parachute drop and man-made river rapids ride. 5 days later, on August 5, the park had its grand opening.
On August 1, 1961, amusement park lovers “head for the thrills” as Six Flags Over Texas, the first park in the Six Flags chain, has its soft opening.
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