On August 20, This Texas City Was Erased by a Massive Hurricane

In the mid-1800s, Galveston was one of the largest ports in the U.S., and by far the largest port in Texas. However, there was another Texas city that was considered a rival port.

Indianola, Texas

The city no longer exists. It has been a 'ghost town' since 1887. But, between 1845 - 1875, Indianola was a bustling port town on Matagorda Bay that boasted over 5,000 residents by the 1870s.

Originally named Indian Point, this city was populated by German settlers who had immigrated to the U.S. Many of those would travel inland towards San Antonio, eventually establishing towns such as New Braunfels and Fredericksburg.

The Great Camel Experiment

Indianola was also the home port for the Great Camel Experiment. In the 1850s, government officials imported camels from the Middle East, believing they could transport goods in the deserts west of Texas.

The experiment was a failure and for years, stray camels roamed the area around Matagorda Bay. A historical marker and camel silhouette marker stands today near the former site of Indianola.

Hurricane One-Two Punch

On September 16, 1875, an estimated Category 3 hurricane (winds 111-130 mph, storm surge 9-12 feet) took aim on Indianola. Over 300 people perished in the storm and many buildings were destroyed.

It's estimated that about half of Indianola's population moved inland after the 1875 hurricane—those who remained rebuilt the city and returned the port to its previous prominence.

However, on August 20, 1886, a Category 4 hurricane (winds 131-155 mph, storm surge 13-18 feet) decimated Indianola. Only 2 houses withstood the storm and surge, and by 1887 the town was completely abandoned.

What's There Now?

A few historical markers are still in place near the former Indianola. You'll also find a bird sanctuary and one of the most important historical cemeteries along the Texas coast.

But, much of what was Indianola now lies under the shallow waters of Matagorda Bay.