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Port Lavaca, Texas: Difference between revisions

Coordinates: 28°37′05″N 96°37′40″W / 28.61806°N 96.62778°W / 28.61806; -96.62778
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{{Distinguish|Lavaca County, Texas}}
{{Distinguish|Lavaca County, Texas}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=July 2023}}
{{Infobox settlement
{{Infobox settlement
|official_name = Port Lavaca, Texas
| official_name = Port Lavaca, Texas
|settlement_type = [[City]]
| settlement_type = [[City]]
|nickname = Port of the Cow,<br>Paradise on the Bay
| nickname = Port of the Cow,<br />Paradise on the Bay
|motto =
| motto = <!-- Images -->
| image_skyline = Downtown - Port Lavaca, Texas.jpg
| imagesize =
| image_caption = Downtown Port Lavaca
| image_flag =
| image_seal = <!-- Maps -->
| image_map = TXMap-doton-PortLavaca.PNG
| mapsize = 250px
| map_caption = Location of Port Lavaca, Texas
| image_map1 = Calhoun County PortLavaca.svg
| mapsize1 = 250px
| map_caption1 = <!-- Location -->
| subdivision_type = [[List of sovereign states|Country]]
| subdivision_name = United States
| subdivision_type1 = [[U.S. state|State]]
| subdivision_name1 = [[Texas]]
| subdivision_type2 = [[List of counties in Texas|County]]
| subdivision_name2 = [[Calhoun County, Texas|Calhoun]]


<!-- Images -->
<!-- Government -->| government_footnotes =
| government_type =
|image_skyline = Downtown - Port Lavaca, Texas.jpg
|imagesize =
| leader_title =
|image_caption = Downtown Port Lavaca
| leader_name =
|image_flag =
| leader_title1 =
|image_seal =
| leader_name1 =
| established_title =
| established_date = <!-- Area -->
| unit_pref = Imperial
| area_footnotes = <ref name="CenPopGazetteer2019">{{cite web|title=2019 U.S. Gazetteer Files|url=https://www2.census.gov/geo/docs/maps-data/data/gazetteer/2019_Gazetteer/2019_gaz_place_48.txt|publisher=United States Census Bureau|access-date=August 7, 2020}}</ref>
| area_magnitude =
| area_total_km2 = 36.54
| area_land_km2 = 26.29
| area_water_km2 = 10.25
| area_total_sq_mi = 14.11
| area_land_sq_mi = 10.15
| area_water_sq_mi = 3.96


<!-- Population -->| population_as_of = [[2020 United States Census|2020]]
<!-- Maps -->
| population_footnotes =
|image_map = TXMap-doton-PortLavaca.PNG
| population_total = 11557
|mapsize = 250px
| population_density_km2 = auto
|map_caption = Location of Port Lavaca, Texas
| population_density_sq_mi = auto
|image_map1 = Calhoun County PortLavaca.svg
|mapsize1 = 250px
|map_caption1 =


<!-- General information -->| timezone = [[North American Central Time Zone|Central (CST)]]
<!-- Location -->
| utc_offset = -6
|subdivision_type = [[List of sovereign states|Country]]
|subdivision_name = United States
| timezone_DST = CDT
| utc_offset_DST = -5
|subdivision_type1 = [[U.S. state|State]]
| elevation_footnotes = <ref name=gnis/>
|subdivision_name1 = [[Texas]]
| elevation_ft = 16
|subdivision_type2 = [[List of counties in Texas|County]]
| coordinates = {{coord|28|37|05|N|96|37|40|W|region:US-TX|display=inline,title}}
|subdivision_name2 = [[Calhoun County, Texas|Calhoun]]
| postal_code_type = [[ZIP code]]
| postal_code = 77979
| area_code = [[Area code 361|361]]
| blank_name = [[Federal Information Processing Standard|FIPS code]]
| blank_info = 48-58916<ref name="GR2">{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov|publisher=[[United States Census Bureau]]|access-date=2008-01-31|title=U.S. Census website}}</ref>
| blank1_name = [[Geographic Names Information System|GNIS]] feature ID
| blank1_info = 2411464<ref name=gnis>{{GNIS|2411464}}</ref>
| website = {{URL|www.portlavaca.org}}
| footnotes =
| pop_est_as_of = 2021
| pop_est_footnotes = <ref name="USCensusEst2019CenPopScriptOnlyDirtyFixDoNotUse">{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/data/tables.2019.html|date=May 24, 2020|title=Population and Housing Unit Estimates|publisher=United States Census Bureau|access-date=May 27, 2020}}</ref>
| population_est = 11259
}}
'''Port Lavaca''' ({{IPAc-en|audio=En-us-Lavaca.ogg|l|ə|ˈ|v|ɑː|k|ə}} {{respell|lə|VAH|kə}}) is a city in [[Calhoun County, Texas|Calhoun County]], located in the [[U.S. state]] of [[Texas]]. The population was 12,248 at the 2010 census<ref name="Census 2010">{{cite web| url=http://factfinder.census.gov/bkmk/table/1.0/en/DEC/10_SF1/G001/1600000US4858916| title=Geographic Identifiers: 2010 Census Summary File 1 (G001): Port Lavaca city, Texas| publisher=U.S. Census Bureau, American Factfinder| access-date=July 8, 2015| archive-url=https://archive.today/20200213063330/http://factfinder.census.gov/bkmk/table/1.0/en/DEC/10_SF1/G001/1600000US4858916| archive-date=February 13, 2020| url-status=dead}}</ref> and 11,557 at the [[2020 United States census|2020 census]]. It is the [[county seat]] of Calhoun County<ref name="GR6">{{cite web|url=http://www.naco.org/Counties/Pages/FindACounty.aspx|access-date=2011-06-07|title=Find a County|publisher=National Association of Counties}}</ref> and part of the Port Lavaca, Texas [[micropolitan statistical area]]. Port Lavaca is {{convert|130|mi}} southwest of [[Houston]].


==History==
<!-- Government -->
Port Lavaca was originally known as Lavaca. The town would quickly grow as a result of the [[Great Raid of 1840|Linnville Raid of 1840]]. This raid saw the town of [[Linnville, Calhoun County, Texas|Linville]] decimated by the Comanche tribe, and caused former residents of the town to settle in what is now Port Lavaca. Thomas McConnell would purchase a section of land from Isidro Benavides, and establish the town using this land<ref>{{cite web |title=Port Lavaca,TX |url=https://www.tshaonline.org/handbook/entries/port-lavaca-tx |website=Texas State Historical Association |access-date=20 February 2024}}</ref>
|government_footnotes =
|government_type =
|leader_title =
|leader_name =
|leader_title1 =
|leader_name1 =
|established_title =
|established_date =

<!-- Area -->
|unit_pref = Imperial
|area_footnotes = <ref name="CenPopGazetteer2019">{{cite web|title=2019 U.S. Gazetteer Files|url=https://www2.census.gov/geo/docs/maps-data/data/gazetteer/2019_Gazetteer/2019_gaz_place_48.txt|publisher=United States Census Bureau|access-date=August 7, 2020}}</ref>
|area_magnitude =
|area_total_km2 = 36.54
|area_land_km2 = 26.29
|area_water_km2 = 10.25
|area_total_sq_mi = 14.11
|area_land_sq_mi = 10.15
|area_water_sq_mi = 3.96

<!-- Population -->
|population_as_of = [[2010 United States Census|2010]]
|population_footnotes =
|population_total = 12248
|population_density_km2 = 450.90
|population_density_sq_mi = 1167.77

<!-- General information -->
|timezone = [[North American Central Time Zone|Central (CST)]]
|utc_offset = -6
|timezone_DST = CDT
|utc_offset_DST = -5
|elevation_footnotes =
|elevation_m = 5
|elevation_ft = 16
|coordinates = {{coord|28|36|56|N|96|37|47|W|region:US-TX|display=inline,title}}
|postal_code_type = [[ZIP code]]
|postal_code = 77979
|area_code = [[Area code 361|361]]
|blank_name = [[Federal Information Processing Standard|FIPS code]]
|blank_info = 48-58916<ref name="GR2">{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov|publisher=[[United States Census Bureau]]|access-date=2008-01-31|title=U.S. Census website}}</ref>
|blank1_name = [[Geographic Names Information System|GNIS]] feature ID
|blank1_info = 1365595<ref name="GR3">{{cite web|url=http://geonames.usgs.gov|access-date=2008-01-31|title=US Board on Geographic Names|publisher=[[United States Geological Survey]]|date=2007-10-25}}</ref>
|website = {{URL|www.portlavaca.org}}
|footnotes =
|pop_est_as_of = 2019
|pop_est_footnotes = <ref name="USCensusEst2019CenPopScriptOnlyDirtyFixDoNotUse"/>
|population_est = 11854
}}
'''Port Lavaca''' ({{IPAc-en|audio=En-us-Lavaca.ogg|l|ə|ˈ|v|ɑː|k|ə}}) is a city in [[Calhoun County, Texas|Calhoun County]], located in the [[U.S. state]] of [[Texas]]. The population was 12,248 at the 2010 census.<ref name="Census 2010">{{cite web| url=http://factfinder.census.gov/bkmk/table/1.0/en/DEC/10_SF1/G001/1600000US4858916| title=Geographic Identifiers: 2010 Census Summary File 1 (G001): Port Lavaca city, Texas| publisher=U.S. Census Bureau, American Factfinder| access-date=July 8, 2015| archive-url=https://archive.today/20200213063330/http://factfinder.census.gov/bkmk/table/1.0/en/DEC/10_SF1/G001/1600000US4858916| archive-date=February 13, 2020| url-status=dead}}</ref> It is the [[county seat]] of Calhoun County<ref name="GR6">{{cite web|url=http://www.naco.org/Counties/Pages/FindACounty.aspx|access-date=2011-06-07|title=Find a County|publisher=National Association of Counties}}</ref> and part of the [[Victoria, Texas]] [[Victoria metropolitan area|Metropolitan Statistical Area]]. Port Lavaca is {{convert|130|mi}} southwest of [[Houston]].


==Geography==
==Geography==
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Port Lavaca also suffered damage in hurricanes in 1942 and 1945.<ref>{{cite web |title=Calhoun County Historical Commission - Historic Photos - Port Lavaca Hurricane Damage 1942 |url=http://www.calhouncountyhc.org/HP_Hurricane42_45HH.html |website=www.calhouncountyhc.org}}</ref>
Port Lavaca also suffered damage in hurricanes in 1942 and 1945.<ref>{{cite web |title=Calhoun County Historical Commission - Historic Photos - Port Lavaca Hurricane Damage 1942 |url=http://www.calhouncountyhc.org/HP_Hurricane42_45HH.html |website=www.calhouncountyhc.org}}</ref>


[[Tropical Storm Beta (2020)|Tropical Storm Beta]] also made landfall on Port Lavaca on late September 2020, causing [[flood]]ing.
The nearby former city of [[Indianola, Texas]] was almost entirely destroyed by a [[1875_Indianola_hurricane|hurricane in 1875]]. Indianola was rebuilt, only to be wiped out on August 19, 1886, by [[1886_Indianola_hurricane|another intense hurricane]].

[[Tropical Storm Beta]] also made landfall on Port Lavaca on late September 2020, causing [[flood]]ing.


==Demographics==
==Demographics==
Line 114: Line 104:
|2000= 12035
|2000= 12035
|2010= 12248
|2010= 12248
|2020= 11557
|estyear=2019
|estimate=11854
|estref=<ref name="USCensusEst2019CenPopScriptOnlyDirtyFixDoNotUse">{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/data/tables.2019.html|date=May 24, 2020|title=Population and Housing Unit Estimates|publisher=United States Census Bureau|access-date=May 27, 2020}}</ref>
|footnote=U.S. Decennial Census<ref name="DecennialCensus">{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/decennial-census.html|title=Census of Population and Housing|publisher=Census.gov|access-date=June 4, 2015}}</ref>
|footnote=U.S. Decennial Census<ref name="DecennialCensus">{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/decennial-census.html|title=Census of Population and Housing|publisher=Census.gov|access-date=June 4, 2015}}</ref>
}}
}}

===2020 census===

{| class="wikitable"
|+'''Port Lavaca racial composition'''<ref>{{Cite web |title=Explore Census Data |url=https://data.census.gov/cedsci/table?g=1600000US4858916&tid=DECENNIALPL2020.P2 |access-date=2022-05-21 |website=data.census.gov}}</ref><br /> (NH = Non-Hispanic){{efn|Note: the US Census treats Hispanic/Latino as an ethnic category. This table excludes Latinos from the racial categories and assigns them to a separate category. Hispanics/Latinos can be of any race.<ref>https://www.census.gov/ {{nonspecific|date=August 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=About the Hispanic Population and its Origin |url=https://www.census.gov/topics/population/hispanic-origin/about.html |website=www.census.gov |access-date=18 May 2022}}</ref>}}
!Race
!Number
!Percentage
|-
|[[Non-Hispanic or Latino whites|White]] (NH)
|2,957
|25.59%
|-
|[[Non-Hispanic or Latino African Americans|Black or African American]] (NH)
|303
|2.62%
|-
|[[Native Americans in the United States|Native American]] or [[Alaska Native]] (NH)
|12
|0.1%
|-
|[[Asian Americans|Asian]] (NH)
|974
|8.43%
|-
|Some Other Race (NH)
|20
|0.17%
|-
|[[Multiracial Americans|Mixed/Multi-Racial]] (NH)
|130
|1.12%
|-
|[[Hispanic and Latino Americans|Hispanic or Latino]]
|7,161
|61.96%
|-
|'''Total'''
|'''11,557'''
|
|}
As of the [[2020 United States census]], there were 11,557 people, 4,334 households, and 2,914 families residing in the city.


===2000 Census data===
===2000 Census data===
As of the [[census]]<ref name="GR2" /> of 2000, there were 12,035 people, 4,189 households, and 3,133 families residing in the city. The [[population density]] was 1,229.9 people per square mile (474.6/km{{sup|2}}). There were 4,791 housing units at an average density of 489.6 per square mile (188.9/km{{sup|2}}). The racial makeup of the city was 71.95% [[White (U.S. Census)|White]], 4.05% [[African American (U.S. Census)|African American]], 0.47% [[Native American (U.S. Census)|Native American]], 3.96% [[Asian (U.S. Census)|Asian]], 0.08% [[Pacific Islander (U.S. Census)|Pacific Islander]], 16.92% from [[Race (United States Census)|other races]], and 2.58% from two or more races. [[Hispanic (U.S. Census)|Hispanic]] or [[Latino (U.S. Census)|Latino]] of any race were 50.11% of the population.
As of the [[census]]<ref name="GR2" /> of 2000, there were 12,035 people, 4,189 households, and 3,133 families residing in the city. The population density was {{convert|1,229.9|PD/sqmi|PD/km2|sp=us|adj=off}}. There were 4,791 housing units at an average density of {{convert|489.6|/sqmi|/km2|sp=us|adj=off}}. The racial makeup of the city was 71.95% [[White (U.S. Census)|White]], 4.05% [[African American (U.S. Census)|African American]], 0.47% [[Native American (U.S. Census)|Native American]], 3.96% [[Asian (U.S. Census)|Asian]], 0.08% [[Pacific Islander (U.S. Census)|Pacific Islander]], 16.92% from [[Race (United States Census)|other races]], and 2.58% from two or more races. [[Hispanic (U.S. Census)|Hispanic]] or [[Latino (U.S. Census)|Latino]] of any race were 50.11% of the population.


There were 4,189 households, out of which 39.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 56.5% were [[Marriage|married couples]] living together, 13.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 100.0% were non-families. 21.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 8.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.83 and the average family size was 3.31.
There were 4,189 households, out of which 39.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 56.5% were [[Marriage|married couples]] living together, 13.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 100.0% were non-families. 21.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 8.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.83 and the average family size was 3.31.
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Locally caught seafood can be found in some of the city's restaurants.
Locally caught seafood can be found in some of the city's restaurants.


In 2006, two new fishing piers with lighting for night fishermen were constructed in Port Lavaca and one at the 6 Mile Park. This pier is located at the eastern end of Main Street in the vicinity of the Nautical Landings Marina. The second pier, Lighthouse Pier, is located on Hwy 35 at Lavaca Bay. The 6 Mile pier (and boat ramp) is located northwest on FM 1090 about {{convert|6|mi|0}} from the intersection of Hwy 35 and FM 1090 (Virginia Street). Common game fish caught in the area include [[redfish]], [[Cynoscion nebulosus|speckled trout]], [[flounder]], and [[Sciaenidae|drum]].
In 2006, two new fishing piers with lighting for night fishermen were constructed in Port Lavaca and one at the 6 Mile Park. This pier is located at the eastern end of Main Street in the vicinity of the Nautical Landings Marina. The second pier, Lighthouse Pier, is located on Hwy 35 at Lavaca Bay. The 6 Mile pier (and boat ramp) is located northwest on FM 1090 about {{convert|6|mi|0}} from the intersection of Hwy 35 and FM 1090 (Virginia Street). Common game fish caught in the area include [[Red drum|redfish]], [[Cynoscion nebulosus|speckled trout]], [[flounder]], and [[Sciaenidae|drum]].


Lighthouse Beach at the intersection of Hwy 35 and Lavaca Bay has covered picnic tables, swimming, and a birdwatching trail.
Lighthouse Beach at the intersection of Hwy 35 and Lavaca Bay has covered picnic tables, swimming, and a birdwatching trail.


==Education==
==Education==
Port Lavaca is served by the [[Calhoun County Independent School District]]. Port Lavaca is served by two Pre-Kindergarten through 5th grade and excellent special needs elementary programs: H.J.M Elementary School and Jackson/Roosevelt Elementary School. All residents are zoned to Travis Middle School (grades 6 through 8) and [[Calhoun High School (Texas)|Calhoun High School]] (9 through 12). Hope High School is another high school, mainly for students with troubled pasts or behavioural issues. Our Lady of the Gulf Catholic school, pre-K through grade 8,<!--<ref>content</ref> what content?--> has also served the county since 1996.
Port Lavaca is served by the [[Calhoun County Independent School District]]. Port Lavaca is served by two Pre-Kindergarten through 5th grade and excellent special needs elementary programs: H.J.M Elementary School and Jackson/Roosevelt Elementary School. All residents are zoned to Travis Middle School (grades 6 through 8) and [[Calhoun High School (Texas)|Calhoun High School]] (9 through 12). Hope High School is another high school, mainly for students with troubled pasts or behavioural issues. Our Lady of the Gulf Catholic school, Pre-K through grade 8,<!--<ref>content</ref> what content?--> has also served the county since 1996.


[[Victoria College (Texas)|Victoria College]] has an extension campus at the former Harrison Elementary School campus. Most of the courses offered there are through distance learning and "ITV" television learning from the VC main campus.
[[Victoria College (Texas)|Victoria College]] has an extension campus at the former Harrison Elementary School campus. Most of the courses offered there are through distance learning and "ITV" television learning from the VC main campus.
Line 145: Line 175:
==Infrastructure==
==Infrastructure==
===Healthcare===
===Healthcare===
Memorial Medical Center which is located in the city of Port Lavaca is a small hospital that serves the city, and county as well.
Memorial Medical Center, which is located in the city of Port Lavaca is a small hospital that serves the city, and county as well.


===Transportation===
===Transportation===
[[Calhoun County Airport (Texas)|Calhoun County Airport]], a [[general aviation]] airport, is located in unincorporated Calhoun County {{convert|5|mi|0}} northwest of Port Lavaca.
[[Calhoun County Airport (Texas)|Calhoun County Airport]], a [[general aviation]] airport, is located in unincorporated Calhoun County {{convert|5|mi|0}} northwest of Port Lavaca.


[[U.S. 87]] (Main Street) comes into Port Lavaca from the northwest as a four-lane divided highway, and then narrows down as it runs through Port Lavaca's historic downtown. Via US 87 it is {{convert|28|mi}} to [[Victoria, Texas|Victoria]]. [[Texas State Highway 35]] is the other major road through Port Lavaca, running generally northeast–southwest through the city. To the northeast it crosses Lavaca Bay via the Port Lavaca Causeway and leads {{convert|29|mi}} to [[Palacios, Texas|Palacios]], while to the southwest it leads {{convert|82|mi}} to [[Corpus Christi, Texas|Corpus Christi]].
[[U.S. Route 87 in Texas|U.S. 87]] (Main Street) comes into Port Lavaca from the northwest as a four-lane divided highway, and then narrows down as it runs through Port Lavaca's historic downtown. Via US 87 it is {{convert|28|mi}} to [[Victoria, Texas|Victoria]]. [[Texas State Highway 35]] is the other major road through Port Lavaca, running generally northeast–southwest through the city. To the northeast it crosses Lavaca Bay via the Port Lavaca Causeway and leads {{convert|29|mi}} to [[Palacios, Texas|Palacios]], while to the southwest it leads {{convert|82|mi}} to [[Corpus Christi, Texas|Corpus Christi]].


==Notable people==
==Notable people==

*[[Hope Dworaczyk]] (born 1984), ''[[Playboy]]'' magazine's 2010 [[Playmate of the Year]]<ref>Connelly, Richard. [http://blogs.houstonpress.com/hairballs/2010/05/hope_dworaczyk_playboys_first.php "Hope Dworaczyk, Playboy's First 3-D Centerfold, Is A Local Girl!!"], ''[[Houston Press]]'', May 11, 2010</ref>
*[[Nelva Gonzales Ramos]] (born 1965), former [[Texas District Courts|Texas State District Court]] judge, currently serving on the [[United States District Court for the Southern District of Texas]]<ref name=caller_20110126>{{Cite news | first=Sara | last=Foley | url=http://www.caller.com/news/2011/jan/26/nelva-gonzales-ramos-nominated-federal-judge/ | title=Nelva Gonzales Ramos nominated for federal judgeship | work=[[Corpus Christi Caller-Times]] | date=January 26, 2011 | access-date=April 14, 2011}}</ref>
* [[Hope Dworaczyk]] (born 1984), ''[[Playboy]]'' magazine's 2010 [[Playmate of the Year]]<ref>Connelly, Richard. [http://blogs.houstonpress.com/hairballs/2010/05/hope_dworaczyk_playboys_first.php "Hope Dworaczyk, Playboy's First 3-D Centerfold, Is A Local Girl!!"], ''[[Houston Press]]'', May 11, 2010</ref>
* [[Nelva Gonzales Ramos]] (born 1965), former [[Texas District Courts|Texas State District Court]] judge, currently serving on the [[United States District Court for the Southern District of Texas]]<ref name=caller_20110126>{{Cite news | first=Sara | last=Foley | url=http://www.caller.com/news/2011/jan/26/nelva-gonzales-ramos-nominated-federal-judge/ | title=Nelva Gonzales Ramos nominated for federal judgeship | work=[[Corpus Christi Caller-Times]] | date=January 26, 2011 | access-date=April 14, 2011}}</ref>
*[[Brucene Smith]], Miss World USA 1971, Miss USA International 1974, Miss International 1974
* [[Steven Saylor]] (born 1956), writer of historical novels
* [[Steven Saylor]] (born 1956), writer of historical novels
* [[Brucene Smith]], Miss World USA 1971, Miss USA International 1974, Miss International 1974


==References==
==References==

{{Reflist|2}}
{{Reflist|2}}

{{notelist}}


==External links==
==External links==

Latest revision as of 18:08, 27 May 2024

Not to be confused with Lavaca County, Texas.

Port Lavaca, Texas
City
Downtown Port Lavaca
Downtown Port Lavaca
Nickname(s): 
Port of the Cow,
Paradise on the Bay
Location of Port Lavaca, Texas
Location of Port Lavaca, Texas
Coordinates: 28°37′05″N 96°37′40″W / 28.61806°N 96.62778°W / 28.61806; -96.62778
LandVereinigte Staaten
StateTexas
CountyCalhoun
Area
[1]
 • Total14.11 sq mi (36.54 km2)
 • Land10.15 sq mi (26.29 km2)
 • Water3.96 sq mi (10.25 km2)
Elevation
[2]
16 ft (5 m)
Population
 (2020)
 • Total11,557
 • Estimate 
(2021)[3]
11,259
 • Density820/sq mi (320/km2)
Time zoneUTC-6 (Central (CST))
 • Summer (DST)UTC-5 (CDT)
ZIP code
77979
Area code361
FIPS code48-58916[4]
GNIS feature ID2411464[2]
Websitewww.portlavaca.org

Port Lavaca (/ləˈvɑːkə/ ⓘ lə-VAH-kə) is a city in Calhoun County, located in the U.S. state of Texas. The population was 12,248 at the 2010 census[5] and 11,557 at the 2020 census. It is the county seat of Calhoun County[6] and part of the Port Lavaca, Texas micropolitan statistical area. Port Lavaca is 130 miles (210 km) southwest of Houston.

History

[edit]

Port Lavaca was originally known as Lavaca. The town would quickly grow as a result of the Linnville Raid of 1840. This raid saw the town of Linville decimated by the Comanche tribe, and caused former residents of the town to settle in what is now Port Lavaca. Thomas McConnell would purchase a section of land from Isidro Benavides, and establish the town using this land[7]

Geography

[edit]

Port Lavaca is located in northern Calhoun County on the west side of Lavaca Bay, an arm of Matagorda Bay. According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 14.1 square miles (36.5 km2), of which 10.2 square miles (26.3 km2) is land and 3.9 square miles (10.2 km2), or 28.04%, is water.[5]

Climate

[edit]

Port Lavaca holds the state record of the highest wind speed ever reached. During Hurricane Carla in September 1961, the winds were recorded to gust up to 170 miles per hour (270 km/h).[8]

In 2004, Port Lavaca, including the South Texas Area, recorded up to 12 inches (300 mm) of snowfall.

During Hurricane Harvey in August 2017, Port Lavaca was the location of the peak of the storm surge, which was measured at 6 ft (1.8 m).[9]

Port Lavaca also suffered damage in hurricanes in 1942 and 1945.[10]

Tropical Storm Beta also made landfall on Port Lavaca on late September 2020, causing flooding.

Demographics

[edit]
Historical population
CensusPop.Note%±
1850315—
186052667.0%
187076846.0%
1890365—
19101,699—
19201,212−28.7%
19301,36712.8%
19402,06951.4%
19505,599170.6%
19608,86458.3%
197010,49118.4%
198010,9114.0%
199010,886−0.2%
200012,03510.6%
201012,2481.8%
202011,557−5.6%
U.S. Decennial Census[11]

2020 census

[edit]
Port Lavaca racial composition[12]
(NH = Non-Hispanic)[a]
Race Number Prozentualer Anteil
White (NH) 2,957 25.59%
Black or African American (NH) 303 2.62%
Native American or Alaska Native (NH) 12 0.1%
Asian (NH) 974 8.43%
Some Other Race (NH) 20 0.17%
Mixed/Multi-Racial (NH) 130 1.12%
Hispanic or Latino 7,161 61.96%
Total 11,557

As of the 2020 United States census, there were 11,557 people, 4,334 households, and 2,914 families residing in the city.

2000 Census data

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As of the census[4] of 2000, there were 12,035 people, 4,189 households, and 3,133 families residing in the city. The population density was 1,229.9 inhabitants per square mile (474.9/km2). There were 4,791 housing units at an average density of 489.6 per square mile (189.0/km2). The racial makeup of the city was 71.95% White, 4.05% African American, 0.47% Native American, 3.96% Asian, 0.08% Pacific Islander, 16.92% from other races, and 2.58% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 50.11% of the population.

There were 4,189 households, out of which 39.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 56.5% were married couples living together, 13.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 100.0% were non-families. 21.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 8.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.83 and the average family size was 3.31.

In the city, the population was 30.3% under the age of 18, 9.6% from 18 to 24, 28.7% from 25 to 44, 19.3% from 45 to 64, and 12.1% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 32 years. For every 100 females, there were 99.2 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 95.8 males. The median income for a household in the city was $33,626, and the median income for a family was $38,250. Males had a median income of $35,526 versus $18,427 for females. The per capita income for the city was $15,431. About 16.8% of families and 20.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 25.0% of those under age 18 and 14.7% of those age 65 or over.

Economy

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Halfmoon Reef Light

An important economic hub is the Port of Port Lavaca. The city is centrally located between several large manufacturing facilities including Alcoa, Formosa Plastics, and DuPont, where many Port Lavaca residents work. Fishing is an important part of the local economy, particularly shrimp and oysters. Tourism makes up a small portion of the Port Lavaca economy as well. "Winter Texans" from colder states and Canada stay in the city's many RV and camping parks between October and April.

Parks and recreation

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Locally caught seafood can be found in some of the city's restaurants.

In 2006, two new fishing piers with lighting for night fishermen were constructed in Port Lavaca and one at the 6 Mile Park. This pier is located at the eastern end of Main Street in the vicinity of the Nautical Landings Marina. The second pier, Lighthouse Pier, is located on Hwy 35 at Lavaca Bay. The 6 Mile pier (and boat ramp) is located northwest on FM 1090 about 6 miles (10 km) from the intersection of Hwy 35 and FM 1090 (Virginia Street). Common game fish caught in the area include redfish, speckled trout, flounder, and drum.

Lighthouse Beach at the intersection of Hwy 35 and Lavaca Bay has covered picnic tables, swimming, and a birdwatching trail.

Bildung

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Port Lavaca is served by the Calhoun County Independent School District. Port Lavaca is served by two Pre-Kindergarten through 5th grade and excellent special needs elementary programs: H.J.M Elementary School and Jackson/Roosevelt Elementary School. All residents are zoned to Travis Middle School (grades 6 through 8) and Calhoun High School (9 through 12). Hope High School is another high school, mainly for students with troubled pasts or behavioural issues. Our Lady of the Gulf Catholic school, Pre-K through grade 8, has also served the county since 1996.

Victoria College has an extension campus at the former Harrison Elementary School campus. Most of the courses offered there are through distance learning and "ITV" television learning from the VC main campus.

Infrastructure

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Gesundheitswesen

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Memorial Medical Center, which is located in the city of Port Lavaca is a small hospital that serves the city, and county as well.

Transport

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Calhoun County Airport, a general aviation airport, is located in unincorporated Calhoun County 5 miles (8 km) northwest of Port Lavaca.

U.S. 87 (Main Street) comes into Port Lavaca from the northwest as a four-lane divided highway, and then narrows down as it runs through Port Lavaca's historic downtown. Via US 87 it is 28 miles (45 km) to Victoria. Texas State Highway 35 is the other major road through Port Lavaca, running generally northeast–southwest through the city. To the northeast it crosses Lavaca Bay via the Port Lavaca Causeway and leads 29 miles (47 km) to Palacios, while to the southwest it leads 82 miles (132 km) to Corpus Christi.

Notable people

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References

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  1. ^ "2019 U.S. Gazetteer Files". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved August 7, 2020.
  2. ^ a b U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Port Lavaca, Texas
  3. ^ "Population and Housing Unit Estimates". United States Census Bureau. May 24, 2020. Retrieved May 27, 2020.
  4. ^ a b "U.S. Census website". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved January 31, 2008.
  5. ^ a b "Geographic Identifiers: 2010 Census Summary File 1 (G001): Port Lavaca city, Texas". U.S. Census Bureau, American Factfinder. Archived from the original on February 13, 2020. Retrieved July 8, 2015.
  6. ^ "Find a County". National Association of Counties. Retrieved June 7, 2011.
  7. ^ "Port Lavaca,TX". Texas State Historical Association. Retrieved February 20, 2024.
  8. ^ Cooperman, Arthur I.; Summer, Howard C. (September 18, 1961). "Hurricane Carla Preliminary Report". National Hurricane Center. United States Weather Bureau. Retrieved August 26, 2017.
  9. ^ "Hurricane Harvey". U-SURGE. Archived from the original on September 10, 2017. Retrieved September 10, 2017.
  10. ^ "Calhoun County Historical Commission - Historic Photos - Port Lavaca Hurricane Damage 1942". www.calhouncountyhc.org.
  11. ^ "Census of Population and Housing". Census.gov. Retrieved June 4, 2015.
  12. ^ "Explore Census Data". data.census.gov. Retrieved May 21, 2022.
  13. ^ https://www.census.gov/ [not specific enough to verify]
  14. ^ "About the Hispanic Population and its Origin". www.census.gov. Retrieved May 18, 2022.
  15. ^ Connelly, Richard. "Hope Dworaczyk, Playboy's First 3-D Centerfold, Is A Local Girl!!", Houston Press, May 11, 2010
  16. ^ Foley, Sara (January 26, 2011). "Nelva Gonzales Ramos nominated for federal judgeship". Corpus Christi Caller-Times. Retrieved April 14, 2011.
  1. ^ Note: the US Census treats Hispanic/Latino as an ethnic category. This table excludes Latinos from the racial categories and assigns them to a separate category. Hispanics/Latinos can be of any race.[13][14]
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