Region: Gulf Coast
When first explored by Europeans, the island was an Akokisa site. The
Karankawa tribe used the island for hunting and fishing. Pirate Jean Laffite
established a settlement here in 1817. During the Texas Revolution, the harbor
served as the port for the Texas Navy. After the war, a group of investors
obtained ownership of land at the harbor to establish a town in 1838. The next
year, the Texas Legislature granted incorporation to the city of Galveston.
Early years gave the city many firsts in Texas: first Roman Catholic convent,
first electric lights and first medical college. In 1900, the entire island was
inundated during a hurricane, which claimed more than 6,000 lives. A seawall was
built two years later. Presently 10 miles long, it has proved its staying power
several times over.
Galveston Island offers 32 miles of beach and is a treasure trove of things
historically Texan. Details available at the Galveston Island Visitors Centers.
The Galveston Yacht Basin offers marina services.
Exciting varieties of food and game fish are found in Gulf waters off
Galveston Island. Fishermen may join one of the many party boats for bay or
offshore action. Reservations at Piers 18 and 19 and Galveston Yacht Basin.
888/GAL-ISLE. www.galveston.com.
Seat of Galveston County, major port, tourist and convention center. It is
home to University of Texas Medical Branch, Texas A&M University at
Galveston and Galveston College.