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The Texas Maritime Museum is excited to announce the grand opening of a new exhibit, Gateways to Texas – Coastal Passages, on Thursday, January 16, at 5:30 PM. This captivating new exhibit invites visitors to explore the rich history of Texas’ coastal corridors and the brave souls who passed through them to settle in the Lone Star State.Throughout the 1800s, people fled religious persecution, political unrest, and economic hardship to start anew along the Texas coast. The exhibit delves into the varied passages used by early settlers, including Copano Landing, Indianola Port, East Coast Transit, and the shores of Aransas Bay. These routes were essential for the immigration of many who helped shape the communities of coastal Texas, including those in Rockport. Visitors will learn about the journeys of families like the de la Garzas, de Leons, Powers, O’Connors, Hynes, McGloins, Brachts, Frandoligs, Welders, Brundretts, Woods, Jacksons, Johnsons, Sorensons, Ballous, Rouquettes, Simpsons, Casterlines, Nguyens, and others who braved the dangers of the sea to build new lives.
Special thanks are due to Humanities Texas, an organization that promotes cultural and historical education statewide for their support of the exhibit. Panels supplied by Humanities Texas will provide insight into the experiences of immigrants who entered America through Galveston Island between 1845 and 1924. The exhibit’s Forgotten Gateway section focuses on the immigrant experience, exploring themes of migration, danger, discrimination, and bureaucracy.
The opening event, to be held Thursday, January 16th, from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM, will feature comments by a panel of speakers, including Susie Bracht Black, Jerry Brundrett, Leah Olivia, and Keith Petrus, all descendants of Rockport settlers. The Coastal Social will provide refreshments.
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
1202 Navigation Circle , Rockport, TX, United States, Texas 78382
