Did you know that on this day in Texas history, in 1863, a small Confederate force successfully defended against a Federal invasion at the Second Battle of Sabine Pass? This event proved to be a crucial victory for the Confederates during the Civil War.
In 1874, Lieutenant Frank and three scouts captured a man known as the “white Indian” named Tehan in what is now Hemphill County. However, Tehan managed to escape from his captors shortly after.
One of the most devastating events in Texas history occurred in 1900 when Galveston was hit by a deadly hurricane. The hurricane resulted in the deaths of at least 6,000 people and caused approximately $30 million in damages. This natural disaster highlighted the need for improved infrastructure and disaster preparedness in the state.
In 1938, the construction of the Rainbow Bridge connected Port Arthur and Orange County, providing a much-needed transportation link for the region. This bridge replaced the Dryden Ferry, making it easier for people to travel between the two areas.
A significant moment in transportation history took place in 1990 when the Veteran’s Memorial Bridge was dedicated. This bridge, which ran parallel to the Rainbow Bridge, further strengthened the connection between Port Arthur and Orange County.
In 1999, the U.S. Attorney General Janet Reno appointed former U.S. Senator John Danforth to head an independent investigation into the 1993 fire at the Branch Davidian compound in Waco, Texas. This investigation aimed to uncover the truth behind the tragic event and provide closure for the victims’ families.
In more recent years, on this day in 2012, TCU (Texas Christian University) played their first game in the newly renovated Amon G. Carter Stadium. TCU enjoyed a victorious start, defeating Grambling 56-0, and the stadium continues to be a prominent venue for college football in the state.