Photo by Jim King
Tower 106 and its companion tower, Tower 107 were built around 1915-16 as part of the construction of Dallas Union Station. Known locally as North Tower, this tower controlled the north end of the Union Station complex and associated crossings with other railroads. The tower was authorized for operation by the Railroad Commission of Texas (RCT) on April 26, 1916. The tower is still standing, although currently unused, and is now owned by the Dallas Area Rapid Transit system (DART). Both towers were built about the same time; completion of both towers paved the way for removal of Tower 57.
As of June, 2001, plans are in the works to renovate Tower 106 and make it part of The 6th Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza. Tower 106 and the tower operator on duty played a minor part in the events of November 22, 1963 when President John F. Kennedy was assassinated in Dallas, TX. Lee Bowers was the operator on duty during the time the Presidential motorcade made its way in front of the Texas School Book Depository building. Lee had a clear view of the rear of the Grassy Knoll and any activity taking place there. After the event, Lee testified before the Warren Commission investigating the event. The 6th Floor Museum plans to restore Tower 106's interior and exterior to its early 1960's appearance. Eventually, visitors should have access to the operator's area of the tower to see the surrounding area from the tower operator's perspective on that fateful day.
To aid in the restoration efforts, information and photographs relating to Tower 106, Tower 107 and Dallas Union Terminal Company are actively being sought by The 6th Floor Museum's curator Arlinda Abbot. The Texas Interlocking Tower web site is assisting in this restoration effort by providing information on railroads and tower operations. Please contact Arlinda or www.txrrhistory.com if you have any Tower 106 related information which could help with the restoration.
Here are a few links to JFK related material which will provide some insight to the Tower 106 connection with the assassination.
Testimony
Of Lee E. Bowers, Jr. to the Warren Commission
The 6th Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza
Photos of Tower 106
Photo by Jim King
Photo by Jim King.
