Historical Marker
Calhoun County Hurricanes
Port Lavaca, Calhoun County · Texas
Erected 2001
The worst storm of record in Texas came ashore here. Hurricane Carla, the largest hurricane on the state's books, struck between September 8 and 14, 1961; its gusts at Port Lavaca were estimated at 175 miles an hour, and it made landfall at Port O'Connor, leveling that town's five-block downtown. Damage along the coast passed $300 million, but because 250,000 people were evacuated only thirty-four died. The county had been struck before in the twentieth century, by storms near Seadrift in 1934, on Matagorda Bay in 1942 and around San Antonio Bay in 1945.
What the plaque says
Calhoun County Hurricanes Severe storms with high winds, heavy rains and tidal surges, hurricanes have played a significant role in events that shaped Calhoun County's history. Entire towns, including Indianola (a key Gulf seaport and Calhoun County seat) and Saluria (Republic-era port on Matagorda Island) were destroyed by 19th-century storms. Over the centuries, residents have dealt with wind and water damage to property, and lives have been lost during hurricanes. Stories of survival and rebuilding in the aftermath of these torrential storms also figure prominently in Calhoun County history. (2001) Incising on back: Erected by Calhoun County Historical Commission, George Fred Rhodes, chairman
Where it stands
28.61312, -96.62613 · Directions
More markers nearby
- Howard Gallemore Hartzog, Sr. — steps away
- Calhoun County Participation During World War II — steps away
- Calhoun County — steps away
- Our Lady of the Gulf Catholic Church — steps away