The story behind Galveston's famous sea wall

By Melanie Nonmacher

Hello there, island lovers! If you're familiar with our beloved Galveston, you'll know that one of our most iconic landmarks is the grand Galveston Seawall. Standing tall and proud, it's more than just a protective barrier; it's a symbol of our resilience, our strength, and our enduring love for this charming coastal town. But have you ever wondered about the history of this impressive structure? Let's dive into the story of this silent guardian of our shores.

Our tale begins in 1900, when Galveston was hit by what is still today considered the deadliest natural disaster in U.S. history, the Great Galveston Hurricane. With winds reaching over 140 miles per hour and a storm surge of over 15 feet, our beautiful island city was almost completely wiped out. In the aftermath of the storm, the resilient people of Galveston decided to build a seawall to protect their beloved city from future hurricanes.

Construction began in 1902 under the supervision of engineer Henry Martyn Robert, who you might know as the author of Robert's Rules of Order. The initial segment of the seawall was 3.3 miles long and 17 feet high. Built with granite blocks and cement, it stood as a formidable line of defense against the mighty Gulf of Mexico. Over the years, the seawall was extended multiple times, and today it stretches over 10 miles and stands 17 feet above mean sea level.

The seawall has done its job admirably, and its importance was brought home during the 1915 hurricane, which was almost as powerful as the one that struck in 1900. However, thanks to the seawall, the damage to Galveston was significantly less. The seawall had held, proving its worth and becoming an emblem of our city's determination and resilience.

Today, the seawall is more than just a barrier against the ocean's fury. It's a beloved part of our community, a place where locals and visitors alike stroll, jog, bike, or simply sit and watch the waves roll in. Along the seawall, you'll find charming restaurants, unique shops, historic monuments, and the famous Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier.

The Galveston Seawall is a testament to the resilience and spirit of our island city. It reminds us of our history, protects us in the present, and stands as a symbol of hope for the future. So, next time you're walking along the seawall, take a moment to appreciate this impressive structure and the story it tells about our wonderful city.

Whether you're a long-time local, a new resident, or a cherished visitor, we hope you'll join us in celebrating the rich history and unique culture that make Galveston so special. From our historic homes and architectural gems to our vibrant community events and delicious local dining, there's always something to discover and enjoy here in Galveston. And through it all, the seawall stands, a constant reminder of our city's enduring spirit.

Check out the latest articles from all our sites:




CC0D5F
Please enter the code from the image above in the box below.