Webcams Near Rockport Texas
Rockport, Texas: A Coastal City with Rich History
Rockport, Texas, is a small city located on the Live Oak Peninsula. As the county seat of Aransas County, it serves as a center for tourism and fishing. Rockport has a population of 10,070 according to the 2020 census. The city sits adjacent to Fulton, and the two are often referred to as Rockport-Fulton, though they remain legally separate.
The Early History of Rockport Texas
19th Century Beginnings
After the Civil War, several influential figures saw potential in developing the Live Oak Peninsula. Joseph F. Smith, the founder of St. Mary’s, teamed up with Thomas H. Mathis and J.M. Mathis to establish Rockport. They built a wharf in 1867, laying the foundation for a new town. The same year, George W. Fulton moved to the area with his wife, Harriet Smith Fulton, who inherited large portions of land.
Together, the Mathis cousins and Fulton helped the town grow quickly. By 1870, Rockport Texas was incorporated and named after the rocky ledge along its shore. The local cattle industry played a crucial role in its early growth. Ranchers used the wharf to ship cattle, and Rockport became a hub for the meatpacking industry. By 1871, Rockport had achieved city status.
Despite early success, the town faced economic challenges. The Panic of 1873 slowed the cattle industry. Though the local economy struggled, the railroad arrived in 1888, bringing new opportunities. Tourists began to visit, and shipbuilding also became a significant industry.
The Early 20th Century
Rockport entered the 20th century with more economic difficulties. In 1919, a devastating hurricane struck the region. The community took time to recover, but the shrimping industry helped lift the city’s economy in the 1920s. By the 1930s, shrimping and fishing became vital industries, with boat-building also playing an important role.
World War II briefly slowed shrimping, but the industry bounced back afterward. Fishing and tourism became cornerstones of the local economy. By the end of the 20th century, Rockport had developed a strong reputation as a tourist destination.
Hurricane Harvey: A Defining Moment in the 21st Century
In August 2017, Hurricane Harvey made landfall near Rockport as a Category 4 storm. The hurricane caused widespread devastation. Winds destroyed homes, schools, and businesses. A large portion of Rockport’s population was displaced, and much of the city needed to be rebuilt.
Despite the damage, Rockport showed resilience. The community came together to rebuild homes, businesses, and schools. Though many residents faced long-term displacement, the city has steadily recovered and continues to thrive.
Geography of Rockport Texas
Rockport Texas is located on the Live Oak Peninsula, bordered by Aransas Bay on the east and Copano Bay on the west. The city covers 18.5 square miles, with 13.9 square miles of land and 4.6 square miles of water. This coastal setting makes Rockport ideal for fishing, boating, and birdwatching.
Climate
Rockport has a humid subtropical climate. Summers are hot and humid, while winters are mild. The coastal location helps moderate extreme temperatures but also makes the city vulnerable to hurricanes and tropical storms.
| Climate Data | Summer (°F) | Winter (°F) | Rainfall (inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average High | 90-95 | 60-70 | 34.7 |
| Average Low | 75-80 | 45-55 |
Population Growth Over the Years
Rockport Texas has experienced steady population growth. The 2020 census reported 10,070 residents, marking a 14.9% increase from the previous decade. The city has grown as a result of its strong tourist industry and its reputation as a peaceful coastal community.
| Year | Population | % Change |
|---|---|---|
| 1890 | 1,069 | — |
| 1900 | 1,153 | 7.9% |
| 1910 | 1,382 | 19.9% |
| 1920 | 1,545 | 11.8% |
| 1930 | 1,140 | -26.2% |
| 1940 | 1,729 | 51.7% |
| 1950 | 2,266 | 31.1% |
| 1960 | 2,989 | 31.9% |
| 1970 | 3,879 | 29.8% |
| 1980 | 3,686 | -5.0% |
| 1990 | 4,753 | 28.9% |
| 2000 | 7,385 | 55.4% |
| 2010 | 8,766 | 18.7% |
| 2020 | 10,070 | 14.9% |
Racial Composition (2020 Census)
| Race/Ethnicity | Population | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| White (Non-Hispanic) | 7,070 | 70.2% |
| Hispanic or Latino | 2,184 | 21.7% |
| Black (Non-Hispanic) | 121 | 1.2% |
| Native American | 36 | 0.36% |
| Asian | 268 | 2.66% |
| Mixed/Other | 384 | 3.57% |
Rockport Texas is primarily White (Non-Hispanic), with a significant Hispanic community. Other racial groups include African Americans, Native Americans, and Asians. The city’s diversity has grown over the years as more people move to the area.
Economy of Rockport
Rockport’s economy relies on tourism, fishing, and shrimping. The city’s coastal location makes it a popular spot for fishing tournaments, birdwatching, and beach vacations. Rockport Beach, known as Texas’ first Blue Wave Beach, draws visitors from across the country.
Tourism and Outdoor Recreation
Tourism plays a major role in Rockport’s economy. Visitors come to enjoy the area’s natural beauty, go birdwatching, or relax by the water. The Aransas National Wildlife Refuge is a nearby attraction that draws bird enthusiasts. Many tourists visit Rockport for its peaceful beaches and outdoor activities.
Shrimping and Fishing
The shrimping industry has been a part of Rockport’s economy since the 1920s. Today, local shrimpers supply fresh seafood to markets and restaurants across the state. Fishing is also a key part of the local economy, with Rockport hosting several fishing tournaments throughout the year.
Boat Building
In addition to fishing, boat building continues to be a thriving industry in Rockport. The city’s long history of boat construction supports the local fishing and shrimping industries. Boat builders in the area produce high-quality vessels used by commercial fishermen and tourists alike.
Rock Port: Small Town Moving Forward
Rockport Texas, is a resilient coastal city with a rich history and a bright future. From its beginnings as a cattle-shipping town to its growth as a tourist destination, Rockport has weathered economic ups and downs. Although Hurricane Harvey caused significant damage, the community has rebuilt and continues to thrive. Today, Rockport’s economy is fueled by tourism, shrimping, and fishing. Whether you’re visiting for the beaches or settling down in the area, Rockport remains a unique and charming destination along the Texas coast.
