Galveston in the Republic of Texas
Historical marker location:Galveston Island, for centuries a crossroads for Indians, privateers, Spanish and French explorers, for a time was capital of the Republic of Texas.
This was during the Texas War for Independence, when Santa Anna was making his 1836 invasion. On March 17, the hastily organized and interim cabinet of President David G. Burnet evacuated Washington-on-the-Brazos, moving to Harrisburg, and then in April to Galveston. Here it remained until after the Texas victory at San Jacinto on April 21, 1836.
From January 1836 until U. S. annexation in 1846, Galveston was the naval base for the fleet which protected shipping and sought to prevent Mexican invasion of Texas by way of the sea.
By September 1837 the 4 ships of the Texas Navy had all been lost. Not until April 1840 was the navy reorganized under President M. B. Lamar.
A former U. S. Naval officer, Edwin W. Moore, was made commodore. Afterward, when Moore became involved in a bitter controversy with President Sam Houston, Houston ordered the Navy to be sold. At the sale, the incensed people of Galveston used forceful means to prevent bidding. The ships at annexation were all transferred to the United States Navy
- 1821: The Mexican War of Independence concludes, and Mexico gains independence from Spain. Texas is a part of the newly formed Republic of Mexico.
- 1824: The Mexican government establishes the Constitution of 1824, which grants certain rights to the Mexican states, including Texas.
- 1826: A group of American settlers, known as the Fredonian Rebellion, attempt to establish an independent state in Texas. The rebellion is short-lived and quickly suppressed by Mexican authorities.
- 1830: The Mexican government, concerned about the growing number of American settlers in Texas, passes the Law of April 6, 1830, which imposes restrictions on further American immigration to Texas.
- 1835: Tensions between American settlers and the Mexican government escalate, leading to the Texas Revolution. The Texian rebels, led by figures such as Stephen F. Austin and Sam Houston, engage in battles against Mexican forces.
- 1836: On March 2, the Texian delegates at the Convention of 1836 declare independence from Mexico and establish the Republic of Texas. Sam Houston is elected as the first President of Texas. The Battle of the Alamo takes place in February-March, where a small Texian garrison defends the Alamo Mission against a large Mexican army. Despite their defeat, the battle becomes a symbol of Texian resistance.
- 1836-1838: The Republic of Texas faces a series of military conflicts with Mexico, including the Goliad Massacre and the Battle of San Jacinto. The decisive Texian victory at San Jacinto secures their independence and captures Mexican General Santa Anna, who signs the Treaties of Velasco recognizing Texas as an independent nation.
- 1836-1845: The Republic of Texas operates as an independent nation, establishing a constitution, government, and capital at various locations including Washington-on-the-Brazos, Harrisburg, and eventually, Houston. Efforts to join the United States face opposition due to fears of potential conflict with Mexico.
- 1845: Texas agrees to annexation and becomes the 28th state of the United States on December 29, 1845, following approval by the U.S. Congress. This leads to the Mexican-American War in 1846.
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.
In the late 19th century, Texas became known for its cattle drives, in which cowboys would move herds of cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas and other northern states. The cattle drives were dangerous and difficult work, but they played a key role in the development of the American cattle industry.
In 1816, Pirate Jean Lafitte established a short-lived settlement on Galveston Island, which became a haven for smugglers and criminals. However, the pirate era came to an end when the Mexican government took control of Texas and drove out Lafitte and his fellow pirates.
The 19th century saw Galveston County become a major seaport and commercial center. In 1839, the city of Galveston was founded and quickly grew in size and prosperity. The city became an important hub for the Texas cotton industry and played a significant role in the Texas Revolution and the Civil War.
However, Galveston faced numerous challenges throughout its history, including devastating hurricanes. The most notable was the Great Storm of 1900, which remains the deadliest natural disaster in U.S. history, claiming thousands of lives and causing extensive damage. Despite the destruction, Galveston rebuilt and implemented engineering projects, including the construction of a seawall, to protect the city from future hurricanes.
Today, Galveston County is a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful beaches, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. The county has successfully preserved its rich heritage while embracing modern development, making it a unique and diverse place to visit and live.
Galveston County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Galveston County, Texas.
- 1528 - Spanish explorer Cabeza de Vaca becomes the first known European to set foot on Galveston Island
- 1816 - Pirate Jean Lafitte establishes a base on Galveston Island
- 1825 - Galveston becomes a port of entry for the newly formed Republic of Mexico
- 1836 - Galveston becomes an important port during the Texas Revolution
- 1839 - The City of Galveston is officially incorporated
- 1854 - Galveston becomes the largest city in Texas
- 1900 - Galveston is struck by a devastating hurricane, resulting in over 6,000 deaths
- 1901 - Oil is discovered in nearby Spindletop, leading to a period of economic growth
- 1957 - The world's first offshore drilling rig is built in Galveston
- 2008 - Hurricane Ike causes significant damage to Galveston