Once a resort-like retreat, Shoreacres still offers a unique charm. This small community began when Shoreacres Inc. subdivided the north part of the Hunning 800 acres. This land came from the W. P. Harris Survey. The plat was filed with the Harris County Clerk on February 16, 1925. It showed lots, blocks and newly dedicated public streets.
Soon after, country homes were built. They featured many windows to catch the ocean breeze. These homes sat on wooded and seacoast tracts. To enhance the country club feel, Shoreacres Inc. donated six acres of oceanfront property in 1927. This became the site of the Houston Yacht Club. The yacht club is still Shoreacres’ sole business.
With a growing population, Shoreacres became a city in November 1962. Today, Shoreacres has about 1,700 residents. It retains its resort-like atmosphere. The small-town ambiance provides a retreat from the hustle of neighboring cities.
Before Shoreacres incorporated, the Shore Acres Maintenance Corp. managed the community’s affairs. In 1948, the SAMC had President Underwood and six committees. These included water, pier and recreation, and garbage and sanitation. There were also police and fire, road and drainage, and finance committees. A planning and scheduling committee also existed.
An election was held on May 14, 1949. It determined if the Town of Shoreacres should incorporate. Twenty-five qualified voters cast their ballots. 23 voted for incorporation. Only 2 voted against it.
In 1949, C. H. Counts was the SAMC President. E. C. Rees was Vice-President. J. B. Harkness served as Secretary-Treasurer. H. Simmons was Water Commissioner. P. J. Wallace was Fire Marshal. J. C. Phillips handled waste collection. C. H. Counts oversaw roads and drainage. E. C. Rees managed beautification and the pier.
Joe Phillips, P. J. Wallace and R. H. Mason joined the Board of Directors in 1950.
On December 31, 1951, the SAMC dissolved. The water lease transferred to the Town of Shoreacres. The last seven Directors were Mrs. Lyndes, Mr. Jobson, Mr. Ochover, Mr. Reichardt, Mr. Simmons, Mr. McMillan, and Mr. Wells.
Today, Shoreacres welcomes those seeking a restful retreat. Its bayfront atmosphere and country-like environment charm residents. The city offers a fishing pier, boat access to the bay and a kayak launch. Shoreacres is proud to host the Houston Yacht Club.
Neighbors here know each other. They actively participate in community events. Shoreacres supports its city through good times and tough times. It extends a warm welcome to all residents. With an environmentally conscious attitude, Shoreacres focuses on Galveston Bay’s cleanliness. The city protects wetlands and preserves natural resources. Designated as a bird sanctuary, Shoreacres values its diverse wildlife. You can see many species in the local waters, estuaries, and wooded areas.
Shoreacres is a General Law City. It has a Mayor and five Council members. They serve two-year terms. City Hall houses a court, council chambers and administrative offices. It serves as a central meeting place for citizens.
The first homes appeared in 1925. This area was then the Shoreacres Country Club subdivision. Country homes soon followed. They were designed with many windows for the bay breezes. Shoreacres, Inc. donated bayfront property in 1927 for the Houston Yacht Club. Because of its growing population, Shoreacres incorporated in November 1962.
Shoreacres offers a neighborly welcome. The city hopes you enjoy this fine community.