La Coste

Why did a town originally known as Fernando become La Coste? Let’s unravel this story right here in front of us. La Coste isn’t just a quaint village in Texas. It’s a place where whispers of history linger in the air, waiting to be heard. The year was 1881. The Galveston, Harrisburg & San Antonio Railroad was pushing westward from San Antonio towards El Paso, laying down tracks that would transform the landscape and the lives of its people. They saw potential in this area, a perfect spot for a railroad station. Jean B. LaCoste, a wealthy businessman, saw the opportunity and invested. The town, originally called Fernando, eventually took on his name. The railroad brought lifeblood to La Coste. General stores, saloons, homes, churches, and even segregated schools sprung up, catering to the growing population. The La Coste Ledger chronicled the town’s progress, capturing stories of midwives accepting chickens and vegetables as payment and businessmen shaping the town’s destiny. La Coste wasn’t without its challenges. A devastating tornado in May 1958 ripped through the town. The schoolhouse bore the brunt of the damage, its second floor completely destroyed. Yet, the resilient community rebuilt and persevered. Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church stands as a testament to the changing times. Built in 1911, it shifted the town’s focus from gambling and saloons towards a more business-oriented community. Today, La Coste sits slightly off the beaten path. It holds onto its unique charm. It’s a reminder of a time when the railroad was the lifeblood of the community, shaping not only its physical landscape, but also its identity.