Indianola
State: Texas
County: Calhoun County
Founded: 1846
Peak Population: 5,000+
Indianola was Texas's second-largest port, gateway for German immigrants. Two hurricanes destroyed it: 1875 killed 300, but they rebuilt; 1886 brought a 15-foot surge and fire—only 2 buildings survived. La Salle's 1685 French expedition landed nearby. A statue marks the spot.
Quick Facts
- US Army's experimental camels landed here in 1856
- Two catastrophic hurricanes 11 years apart—rebuilt after first, abandoned after second
- French explorer La Salle landed nearby in 1685
- Much of original townsite now underwater
Location
Address: Matagorda Bay, Calhoun County, Texas
Coordinates: 28.5225, -96.4933