Smith Point, Texas, Chambers County. (original) (raw)

History in a Pecan Shell

Even before it's namesake arrived, the "point" was used by Spanish troops disembarking to reinforce their garrison at Atascosito (1805). The aforementioned namesake, an Anglo who called himself John Smith, protested Spanish reluctance to issue titles to settlers. Mexico got it's independence from Spain shortly thereafter and then Texas got it's Independence from Mexico. Texas joined the United States in 1845 and Smith's Point was finally able to get it's own post office in 1876 - the year of the American Centennial. Until roads started appearing, Smith's Point was either reached on horseback, wagon or boat. Earliest population figures are from the 1930s when around fifty hearty souls resided here.

Ranching was the main industry with fishing a close second. The region was about as isolated as could be - until the discovery of gas and oil wells offshore in 1944.

The town lost it's post office during WWII, but the community held together in a rather loose and informal manner.

For people seeking a detailed history of Smith's Point, the book entitled Double Anchor Ranch is worthy of a search.

The population was reported at 150 residents in 1990 and at that same number for the 2000 census.

Chambers County 1907 postal map showing Smithpoint (overlooking East Bay)
From Texas state map #2090
Courtesy Texas General Land Office

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