History of Houston Texas
The History of Houston Texas
Houston is the fourth largest city in the USA. Its history dates back to the time of its founding. Houston was named for General Sam Houston, who led his army to victory in the Texas War for Independence. He was a leader of the Texas independence movement, and later became the first president of the Republic of Texas. History Of Houston Texas
The late 1800s brought important changes to Houston. First, it became a center of transportation. The railroads transported cotton and timber to the city. There was also a huge increase in the number of people. In addition, the railroads brought Germans, Mexicans, and other immigrants to the area. This population boom led to a variety of industries and businesses being developed in Houston.
During this period, Houston also became a center for higher education. In 1887, the Sisters of Charity opened the first general hospital in Houston. However, it was not until the early 1950s that the University of Houston was established. That institution, which later became the University of Texas, celebrated its 50th anniversary in 1977.
As the city grew, it was important for Houston to have a new source of water. Two groups began to settle on opposite banks of the bayou. They were given land grants. One group called the settlement after their land purchaser, while the other was named after General Sam Houston.
Another noteworthy development was the building of the first oil well in Texas. Eventually, the city's economy thrived and it became one of the most important cities in the United States. With the arrival of the railroad, the city became a major trading and transportation center.
Houston's first telephone exchange was also built. By the end of the century, the city was home to the world's first electric power plant. Some of the other notable developments included the creation of Buffalo Bayou Park, the Theater District, and the construction of the University of Houston Medical Center.
Other major projects include the installation of Houston's first network television, the International Terminal at the Houston International Airport, and the Houston Freeway. Houston's continued growth led to a large number of urban planning projects in the second half of the twentieth century.
A massive flood engulfs the city of Houston in August 2017. This disaster is estimated to cost $50 billion in damages. Houston's response was to respond with a hearty effort to improve conditions. The city's infrastructure was greatly improved during the seven years of the Hofeinz administration.
By the end of the decade, it was the first city to lay asphalt streets and it was the first to modernize signage. Another notable project was the establishment of the University of Houston System, which comprises four universities.
Houston also saw the birth of the automobile. The "Original Plan of Houston" shows the city hugging Buffalo Bayou. Regular roads were laid out at 80 feet and the first asphalt street was built at 100 feet.
Other notable projects in the late twentieth century include the creation of the Houston Medical Center and the construction of the Houston Children's Hospital.