Houston History — Points of Interest by Autio

Sam Houston’s Last Public Speech

Sun, 04 Jan 2026 06:09:31 +0000

He warned a raging, hostile crowd of the horrors of war, predicting "fire and rivers of blood" would result. Narrated by Craig Patterson.

Site of 1837 Lubbock Ranch

Sun, 04 Jan 2026 06:08:33 +0000

Beginning with a few cows, pigs, and sheep he accepted as payment, he built up large herds. Narrated by Craig Patterson.

Mid 1800s at “The Strand”

Sun, 04 Jan 2026 06:07:22 +0000

In the second half of the 19th century, Galveston was one of the richest and busiest ports in the world. Narrated by Chris Brinkley.

Last Confederate Force Surrender

Sun, 04 Jan 2026 06:06:20 +0000

Galveston was the biggest city and busiest seaport at the start of the Civil War, which formally ended here. Narrated by Chris Brinkley.

Galveston’s Early Years

Sun, 04 Jan 2026 06:05:51 +0000

Historical Marker - Galveston began as a home base for a couple different pirates including notorious Jean Lafitte. Narrated by Tom Glynn.

The Karankawas & de Vaca

Sun, 04 Jan 2026 06:05:08 +0000

The early history of Galveston Island includes indigenous people and shipwrecked Spaniards. Narrated by Ean Leppin.

The Great Galveston Hurricane

Sun, 04 Jan 2026 06:04:22 +0000

The 1900 Galveston Hurricane is known as the greatest natural disaster ever to strike the United States, causing at least 8,000 deaths. Narrated by Tom Glynn.

Galveston’s Weather Station

Sun, 04 Jan 2026 06:03:47 +0000

The first live and direct televised picture of a hurricane—the famously devastating Carla—was broadcast from here. Narrated by Craig Patterson.

Galveston & The Texas Republic

Sun, 04 Jan 2026 06:02:38 +0000

When President Sam Houston ordered the Navy be sold, incensed townspeople used force to prevent bidding. Narrated by Craig Patterson.

Early Galveston Commercial Block

Sun, 04 Jan 2026 06:01:55 +0000

During the Battle of Galveston it was in the line of fire from the 11-inch guns on the Federal ship ”Owasco.” Narrated by Craig Patterson.

1977 National Women’s Conference

Sun, 04 Jan 2026 06:00:54 +0000

Historical Marker - Important activists gathered to consider a "National Plan of Action" to improve the lives of women. Narrated by Joy Nash.

1863 Battle of Galveston

Sun, 04 Jan 2026 05:59:08 +0000

Union ships fled despite demands for surrender, and this most important Texas port remained in Confederate control. Narrated by Tom Glynn.

1857 Federal Building’s Legacy

Sun, 04 Jan 2026 05:58:33 +0000

The Federal fleet’s 9 inch shell passed through the walls of the second story but failed to explode. Narrated by Tom Glynn.

1840 Galveston Central Wharf

Sun, 04 Jan 2026 05:57:44 +0000

Mallory Steamship lines docked at Piers 22 and 23 discharging and taking on passengers and cargo, mostly cotton. Narrated by Tom Glynn.

Galveston Quarantine Stations

Sun, 04 Jan 2026 05:57:01 +0000

It was noted for its serene and beautiful grounds, which included oleanders, palms and Bermuda grass. Narrated by Sarah Prather.