Rockport Volunteer Fire Department
Historical marker location:As Rockport grew as a center of commerce and a tourism destination in the 1880s, businessman Sam Smith, who owned several homes and businesses, donated the city’s first firefighting equipment. The unit cost about $1400 and consisted of a horse-drawn wagon with chemical tanks. With W. S. Doughty the first to drive the wagon to a fire and Fred Hoopes named as the first fire chief, the Rockport Volunteer Fire Department organized in 1885.
In 1913, a Model T Ford was purchased for $300, remaining in use even after larger trucks were acquired. Interest in the Volunteer Fire Department waned in the 1920s but was revived in June 1938, following a nighttime blaze which consumed the Natalie Apartment House (the Old Grewe Place). A fortunate change in wind direction and the help of the Aransas Pass Fire Department helped minimize damage to surrounding properties. In response, the following week Dr. Albert Collier organized the Aransas County Emergency Corps (ACEC), whose first unit was the Rockport Volunteer Fire Department with Collier as Fire Chief. The mission of the ACEC was to provide fire protection, patrol the beaches, and run an ambulance service. Within six months, a city bond election passed, water mains were installed and the city purchased a 600-gallon-per-minute pumper.
The first permanent fire station was completed on St. Mary’s street in July 1939. Hurricane Celia damaged that facility in 1970, and a new main station was built on Concho Street in 1972. Satellite stations have been built as the city has grown, beginning with a site on Henderson Street in 1983. While the department has received city and county funding plus donations and grants for equipment, volunteers, some representing multiple generations, remain the heart of the department trained to save lives and property
As one of the most visible programs of the Texas Historical Commission (THC), historical markers commemorate diverse topics in Texas history, including: the history and architecture of houses, commercial and public buildings, religious congregations, and military sites; events that changed the course of local and state history; and individuals who have made lasting contributions to the state, community organizations, and businesses.
The city of Austin, the state capital, is known as the live music capital of the world. It is home to many music festivals, including South by Southwest (SXSW) and the Austin City Limits Music Festival.
In the 19th century, Aransas County played a significant role in the fight for Texas independence from Mexico. The famous Battle of Refugio, a key engagement in the Texas Revolution, took place in the county in 1836. Following Texas' independence, Aransas County was officially established in 1871, named after the Aransas River, and Rockport became the county seat.
Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Aransas County thrived as a shipping and fishing hub. The construction of the railroad in the late 1800s greatly accelerated the county's growth, connecting Rockport to major cities and markets. The fishing industry also boomed, attracting entrepreneurs and providing economic stability.
However, the 20th century brought challenges to Aransas County, including economic recessions and natural disasters. Hurricanes, such as the devastating Hurricane Harvey in 2017, have had a significant impact on the county's coastal communities. Despite these obstacles, Aransas County has shown resilience and continues to attract tourists with its natural beauty, historic sites, and recreational opportunities, making it an important part of Texas history and culture.
Aransas County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Aransas County, Texas.
- Pre-1800s: Aransas County was inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Karankawa tribe, who relied on fishing and hunting for their livelihoods.
- 1825: The area that would become Aransas County was part of the Mexican state of Coahuila y Tejas.
- 1834: The Mexican government granted a land title for the area to James Power and James Hewetson.
- 1839: The Republic of Texas established Aransas County as one of its original counties. At this time, the county covered a much larger area than it does today.
- 1850s: The county began to see increased settlement with the founding of towns like Rockport and Fulton, primarily due to the potential for trade and access to natural resources like timber, fish, and shellfish.
- 1861-1865: Aransas County, like other parts of Texas, was greatly affected by the American Civil War. Union forces occupied the area at various times during the war.
- Late 19th century: The county's economy continued to rely on industries like fishing, cattle ranching, and cotton farming. The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s further facilitated commerce in the region.
- 20th century: The early 1900s brought changes to the county, including the arrival of the oil and gas industry, which brought new jobs and economic opportunities. Hurricane Harvey hit the county in 2017, causing significant damage but also spurring community recovery efforts.
- Present day: Aransas County remains a popular tourist destination, known for its scenic coastal landscapes, wildlife habitats, and recreational activities like fishing and birdwatching.