Gilchrist, Texas
Gilchrist is an unincorporated residential community and beachfront resort along State Highway 87, located seventeen miles east of Bolivar Point on the Bolivar Peninsula in Galveston County, Texas, United States. Located in Galveston County, this community was named for Gibb Gilchrist who relocated and rebuilt the rail line from High Island to Port Bolivar following the 1915 hurricane destruction.[1] This settlement before this event was called Rollover.
In 1950, a post office was opened at Gilchrist. A notable feature of the community is the Rollover Pass (or Rollover Fish Pass), which divides Bolivar Peninsula as well as Gilchrist and carries water between East Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. It is regarded among sportsmen as a very popular fishing location in Texas with some the largest fish in the state. Rollover Pass was a natural pass that had been closed until 1955, when it was opened by the Texas Game and Fish Commission as part of its efforts to preserve and improve fish and wildlife resources.[1] As of 1990 Gilchrist's core population was about 750, but would see more residents due to seasonal visitors. Several businesses in the community operate to furnish necessities for permanent residents as well as tourists.
Hurricane Ike
On September 13, 2008, Gilchrist was devastated by Hurricane Ike.[2]
NOAA ariel photography reveals that Gilchrist is, in all respects, 100% destroyed. The roll-over pass bridge has been reduced to one lane. Based on available imagery from there appears to be only 3 standing structures in Gilchrist.
Education
Gilchrist residents are zoned to schools in the High Island Independent School District.
References
- ^ a b "Handbook of Texas Online". Texas State Historical Association. 2002-02-21. Retrieved 2006-10-06.
- ^ Tresaugue, Matthew. "Building may not be an option." Houston Chronicle. September 15, 2008.
External links
- Gilchrist, Texas from the Handbook of Texas Online
- Gilchrist - Bolivar Peninsula Chamber of Commerce
- U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Gilchrist, Texas
Municipalities and communities of Galveston County, Texas, United States | ||
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