Historical Marker

Cedar Point

Historical marker location:
Mont Belvieu, Texas
( S on Hwy 146, E on Spur 55, S on 1405, E on 2354 (Tri City Beach Rd) for 1 mi; Cedar Point Rd, Tri City Beach Rd)
Marker installed: 1986
Marker size: 27" x 42"

Near this site is an area of land known as Cedar Point that was known to some of the earliest settlers of the state. Located in Trinity Bay, Cedar Point was part of an 1824 Mexican land grant awarded to Ohio native John Ijams, who had come to Texas in 1822. In December 1837, the Cedar Point tract of land was purchased from Ijams' widow, Tabitha Ijams Harris, by General Sam Houston (1793-1863), who then was serving as first President of the Republic of Texas. The hero of the Battle of San Jacinto, Houston served two terms as leader of the Republic and later was elected United States Senator from Texas and seventh Governor of the state. Houston's home at Cedar Point has been described as a two-room log house of Dog Trot construction. The homesite now is underwater, as is the site of a cemetery, which probably was established during the Ijams' ownership. Significant for its association with the early settlement of Texas and with one of the state's most noteworthy figures, Cedar Point remains an important site in Chambers County history. (1986)

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.

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Chambers County, Texas has a rich history that dates back to the early 1800s. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Karankawa and Atakapas tribes. European settlers began arriving in the early 19th century, with the region becoming a part of Mexican Texas in 1821.

In 1824, Thomas Jefferson Chambers, a lawyer and land speculator, was granted a colonization contract for the area, which later became known as Chambers County. He established a settlement called Anahuac, which quickly grew into a thriving port town. However, tensions between American settlers and the Mexican government eventually led to the Anahuac Disturbances in 1832, a series of conflicts over local issues such as trade regulations and land titles.

During the Texas Revolution in 1836, Chambers County played a significant role. The Battle of Anahuac took place in May of that year, with Texian rebels successfully capturing the Mexican garrison and securing control of the region. After Texas gained independence, Chambers County became part of the Republic of Texas in 1836.

Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, Chambers County's economy was heavily dependent on agriculture, with cotton and rice being the primary crops. The discovery of oil and natural gas in the early 20th century brought a new wave of economic growth to the region. The establishment of several petrochemical plants contributed to the county's industrial development, transforming it into an important hub for the oil and gas industry.

Today, Chambers County continues to evolve and thrive. It is renowned for its natural beauty and offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and birdwatching. The county's historical significance, coupled with its economic growth, makes it an attractive place to live and visit in Southeast Texas.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Chambers County, Texas.

  • 1830s - Native American tribes such as the Karankawa and Atakapa are present in the area.
  • 1822 - The Mexican government establishes the Municipality of Atascosito, which includes present-day Chambers County.
  • 1835-1836 - The Texas Revolution takes place, leading to Texas gaining its independence from Mexico.
  • 1836 - Chambers County is officially founded and named after Thomas Jefferson Chambers, a landowner and early settler in the area.
  • 1840 - The town of Anahuac becomes the county seat of Chambers County.
  • 1850s - Rice becomes an important crop in the county, leading to economic growth.
  • 1861-1865 - Chambers County residents participate in the American Civil War, with many serving in the Confederate Army.
  • 1875 - The Galveston, Houston, and Henderson Railroad is completed, boosting trade and transportation in the county.
  • 1900 - The devastating Galveston Hurricane causes significant damage to Chambers County.
  • 1901 - The Spindletop oil strike in nearby Beaumont leads to an oil boom in Chambers County.
  • 1933 - The completion of the Intracoastal Waterway greatly benefits the county's shipping and trade industries.
  • 1943-1945 - During World War II, the county hosts the Chambers County Airport, which serves as a training base for the United States Army Air Forces.
  • 1957 - Chambers County becomes home to the Chambers County Nuclear Power Plant, which operates until 1974.
  • 2005 - Chambers County is impacted by Hurricane Rita and experiences significant damage.