Cool Texas History, 1800’s

Texas and Mexico settled battles with the signing of the Treaty of Velasco May 14, 1836.  Located 40 miles west of Galveston on Blue Water Highway the history museum has some one-of-a-kind items that even peak the interest of the iPOD generation.  67 Miles south of Houston you will want to check out the beach while you are here.

Surfside Beach is a barrier island near the mouth of the Brazos, Velasco was a key trade route and where Mexico setup Fort Velasco to watch over traffic coming in and out.  Rumors of pirates hiding out in the area are true.   Taxes were the main reason battles erupted as Mexico made agreements not to tax the local settlers then attempted to levy payments.  When a settler refused and was jailed word got out and the famous 112 Texans led by Stephen F. Austin headed to help.   This particular conflict was the beginning of the war of independence from Mexico and it happened right here in what we now call Surfside Beach.

The story is told that the Mexican army fired a warning shot across the vessel warning the men not to continue down the river.   It was there after a bloody 9 hour battle the fort was captured and Texas independance was on the way.

There is a lot more to discover and learn the complete history of Surfside Beach, like pirates hiding treasure in the area!

Visit the Surfside Historical Museum

Located on the top floor of City Hall
1304 Monument Drive
Surfside Beach, TX 77541
979-233-1531

General Hours 8am – 4:30pm Monday – Friday, Call for Saturday info seasonally.

Lake Jackson Historical Museum

Brazoria County Historical Museum

There is a rich history that only a few have discovered, enjoy the museums and the beach!!!