Do you know why they call this part of Texas the Gulf Coast? We are standing in Brazoria County, and the Gulf of Mexico is just a stone’s throw away. Brazoria County holds a special place in Texas history as the first area settled by Anglo-Texans. In 1821, the “Old Three Hundred” arrived, led by Stephen F. Austin. They were drawn to the fertile lands along the Brazos River, and their arrival marked the beginning of a new era in Texas.
Brazoria County witnessed many pivotal events leading up to the Texas Revolution. Imagine the tension and excitement as early settlers fought for their independence. In fact, Brazoria County was home to early capitals of the Republic of Texas, including Columbia and Velasco.
While Brazoria County played a significant role in early Texas history, it also witnessed a darker chapter – the growth of slavery. The fertile land, perfect for cotton and sugarcane, fueled the demand for enslaved labor. By the mid-1800s, sugarcane became the dominant crop, and Brazoria County was a major producer of sugar in Texas.
The legacy of this period is a complex one, but it’s a crucial part of Brazoria County’s story. Today, Brazoria County is a blend of rural charm and suburban life. The discovery of the Hastings Oil Field in 1934 brought significant changes, contributing to the county’s economic growth. The establishment of Lake Jackson in the 1940s, as a community for workers at the Dow Chemical Company plant, further transformed the area. Today, Brazoria County is a thriving part of the greater Houston area, with a rich history and a promising future.