Region: Gulf Coast
City's rich history began at the junction of the old Calvet and Eagle Island
plantations. In 1881, the name Clute was adopted when both plantations were
bought by Solomon J. Clute, who sold the property to his brother George in 1886.
A historical marker for the Eagle Island Plantation can be found on Plantation
Drive at the entrance of Restwood Cemetery. The burial site of the William H.
Wharton family—who founded the plantation and were prominent in early Texas
history—is located in the cemetery.
Clute is in Brazoria County, just 50 miles south of Houston in an area called
Brazosport. Nearby beaches include Bryan, Quintana and Surfside—all within five
miles of the city. Deep-sea vessels offer offshore fishing. Bay and shore
fishing and crabbing can be lucrative. More than 100 miles offshore, deep-sea
diving in the Flower Gardens is a must for diving enthusiasts.
Birding opportunities abound, and the southern part of the county is known to
have the highest bird count in the state. The Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge,
San Bernard National Wildlife Refuge and Big Boggy National Wildlife Refuge
offer more than 80,000 acres of wildlife area.
The Clarion at Brazosport College, a 600-seat performance hall, presents a
series of nationally and internationally known performing artists. In the
summer, the Clarion presents a series of children's programs on Wednesday
afternoons. 500 College Drive. 979/230-3156. http://clarion.brazosport.edu.
Clute also is home to the Great Texas Mosquito Festival, held the last
weekend in July, and its official mascot, Willie Manchew, the world's largest
mosquito. 800/371-2971. www.mosquitofestival.com.