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Today's Weather
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Galveston has a long and colorful history, starting in the 16th century with the Akokisa and Karankawa Indians. Other famous visitors include Jean Lafitte, and Cabez De Vaca. Galveston really took off in the 1800's and claims Texas' first electricity, phone system, bank, and newspaper (which is still on the island as the Galveston Daily News). Galveston grew in the 1850's and soon became the "wall street" of the south. The port grew and prospered and cotton was shipped out as fast as it was grown. Galveston was the largest and wealthiest city in the south. It was on its way to being the "spot" on the gulf coast. Tourism started and grew very steadily. In the late 1800's the wealthy flocked here and thousands visited Galveston's beaches and gazed at its many stars. The beautiful architecture and woodwork of the day was everywhere. Affluence was fashionable and flaunting it was a hobby for some. Many of the most beautiful mansions on the island were built during this time. For example, the design work on the "garten verin", a gazebo for the Kempner mansion, looks more like art than a gazebo.
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The next stage of Galveston occurred at the landing of the 1900(pic) Great storm. This powerful storm completely submerged Galveston and killed over 6000 people. It still stands as America's worst natural disaster. The city was left reeling and panicked. Soon though, the people who stayedwanted to prevent such a natural disaster from devastating the island in such magnitude again.The city began buiding a seawall seven miles long and 17 feet high and began a tremendous grade raising project. Galveston's Seawall now extends 54,790 feet. The total cost was $14,497,399. This was the grade raising and seawall construction that gives Galveston its look of today. (pic)After years of suffering, the sea wall was complete, and stood as a memorial to those who had died, and a sign of strength in those who had stayed on.
The next stage was the wild and crazy days of secret gambling, prohibition and prostitution. The 20's - 40's was a time of growth, and boom. The city once agin grew into a resort town, and even had dazzling bathing suit contests. The Balinese room is one attraction from that era that is still here today.
From then on Galveston has had its ups and downs, and storms and booms, but it has allways remained resilient and is on the verge of greatness. This is owed to its location, dedication of its leaders, and contribution by its citizens. Galveston's history is well preserved and should be viewed by all. Where else in texas can you swim in the ocean, tour a 1800's mansion, see exotic wildlife, and retire to a 5 star suit next to a 50 erupting volcano! NOWHERE but Galveston!
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