Gilchrist, Texas. (original) (raw)

History in a Pecan Shell

The community was named for Gibb Gilchrist, who was responsible for repairing the railroad (Point Bolivar to High Island) that was destroyed in a 1915 hurricane.

Prior to the renaming, it had been known as Rollover.

The name is still in use however, for Rollover Pass � the inlet that bisects the penninsula. The flow of water provides excellent fishing opportunities and the local economy exists for that reason.

Gilchrist received a post office late (1950) and the pass wasn�t open until 1955 when it was dredged by the Texas Department of Parks and Wildlife.

The community reports a year round population of just under 800, swelling during summer months.