The San Antonio and Aransas Pass Railroad in Rockport

During its early years Rockport relied on Gulf shipping for goods and services. After the arrival of the San Antonio and Aransas Pass Railroad in 1888, however, the town’s economic focus changed to include rail shipping and a burgeoning tourism industry. The town’s population grew from 600 in 1888 to 2,500 by 1890. Businesses and hotels were built to serve the new tourism trade, and four trains arrived at the Rockport Depot daily. By the 1940s passenger rail service to Rockport ended. Freight service continued until 1985, when highway trucking replaced railroad service.

Marker is at the intersection of South Magnolia Street and East North Street, on the right when traveling south on South Magnolia Street.

Courtesy hmdb.org

Credits and Sources:

HMDB