Anchored in History
The oldest American port west of New Orleans celebrates its bicentennial this year.
The Congress of Mexico established the Port of Galveston on October 17, 1825.
It was home to the Texas Navy during the Republic of Texas’ war for independence. Before Ellis Island in New York opened in 1892, it was one of the main gateways into the country for immigrants. At the end of the 19th century, it was the world’s foremost cotton port.
But after the hurricane of 1900 destroyed Galveston, Houston emerged as the safer long-term shipping option on the Gulf. Today, Galveston is the fourth-busiest cruise port in the U.S.
Two events in Galveston will celebrate the port’s 200th anniversary: a party on the pier October 17 and bicentennial gala October 18.
Dana Rothstein | Dreamstime.com
You’ve Got Mail
For most of America’s history, that meant a delivery via the post office using a process that originated 250 years ago this month.
The postal system was established July 26, 1775. Benjamin Franklin was the first postmaster general.
Did you know? The first U.S. stamps, featuring images of Franklin and George Washington, were issued July 1, 1847.
