Previous owner of XTO, formerly Cross Timbers Oil Co., sold in recent years to Exxon Oil. More importantly, he purchased and renovated major buildings in downtown Fort Worth, saving them from the wrecking ball and restoring them in authentic manner. These contributions and restoration efforts have been entirely funded by him personally, not using state or federal funds.

Important to the Fort Worth Stockyards, Mr. Simpson also purchased the Swift Building and restored the “Jewel of the Stockyards” to its current splendor, reminiscent of its glorious past. It was purchased to house XTO’s engineers, who currently reside there as employees of Exxon Oil.