The story behind Galveston's famous sea wall

By Melanie Nonmacher

Howdy, friends! If you've had the pleasure of visiting our beloved island city, you'll likely have noticed our most famous landmark: the Galveston Seawall. This mighty structure, stretching over 10 miles along the Gulf of Mexico, is more than just a protective barrier against the sea. It's a testament to our resilience, tenacity, and love for our home. So, let's dive into the story behind this iconic Galveston monument.

The Seawall's history begins with one of the most devastating natural disasters in US history: the Great Storm of 1900. This hurricane, with its powerful winds and monstrous storm surge, claimed the lives of between 6,000 and 8,000 Galvestonians. In its aftermath, our city faced a critical decision: to rebuild or to relocate. Showing the heart that defines Galveston, we chose to rebuild, stronger and better.

Construction of the Seawall began in 1902, led by the engineering prowess of Henry Martyn Robert, who you might know as the author of Robert's Rules of Order. The original segment, which stretched three-and-a-half miles and stood 17 feet tall, was an engineering marvel for its time. The Seawall was designed to break up wave action, reducing the power of the surges and protecting the city behind it.

But the Seawall was only half the battle. To further protect the city, Galveston was literally raised up. Over 500 city blocks, including homes and businesses, were lifted on jacks and filled in underneath with sand dredged from the harbor. This enormous effort raised the grade of the city behind the Seawall, providing an additional layer of protection against future storms.

Over the years, the Seawall has grown, now extending 10 miles along our beautiful coastline. It's become a hub of activity, with locals and visitors alike strolling along the boulevard, enjoying the stunning ocean views, visiting the local restaurants and shops, or just relaxing on the beach. It's also the site of numerous events throughout the year, from Mardi Gras parades to charity walks and runs, making it a vibrant part of our island culture.

The Galveston Seawall, with its combination of function and beauty, embodies the spirit of our city. It tells a story of resilience in the face of adversity, a commitment to preserve and protect our home, and a celebration of our unique island lifestyle. Next time you're walking along its length, watching the waves crash against the granite, remember the history it represents and the spirit it embodies. It's more than just a wall - it's the heart of Galveston.

Check out the latest articles from all our sites:




FEF151
Please enter the code from the image above in the box below.