Galena Park's claim to historical fame happened on April 19, 1836. General Sam Houston pulled up the floor of the Batterson House and used it to make rafts to carry his army across Buffalo Bayou. Once across, his army defeated General Santa Anna at the Battle of San Jacinto and consequently, won independence for Texas.
What began as Clinton in 1835 as a small settlement that served as a farming and ranching community has grown to include 10,887 residents (2010 U
Galena Park's claim to historical fame happened on April 19, 1836. General Sam Houston pulled up the floor of the Batterson House and used it to make rafts to carry his army across Buffalo Bayou. Once across, his army defeated General Santa Anna at the Battle of San Jacinto and consequently, won independence for Texas.
What began as Clinton in 1835 as a small settlement that served as a farming and ranching community has grown to include 10,887 residents (2010 U.S. Census data) who now refer to this city as Galena Park. It was named after the Galena Signal Oil Company of Texas which built the very first refinery there. The city was incorporated September 21, 1935, and began to shift focus from farming and ranching to cotton and the oil industry. Located eight miles east of Houston, between I-10 and the Pasadena Fwy., Galena Park blossomed with it's larger neighbor when the Port of Houston began to see a surge in traffic.
There are 3 main neighborhoods within Galena Parks and they are all just a bit different from one another. Living close to the ship channels and port might be important for some because of work, while others might wish for a less industrial feel to their neighborhood. Below are some insights into the separate areas of Galena Park to help you decide where to begin your search.
Galena Park: Whether it's a house for rent, a condo for rent or a small studio apartment, there is something to suit almost everyone in the city center of Galena Park! Vince Bayou and Panther Creek run along the southern edge of the neighborhood, excellent areas for taking a morning walk or an afternoon jog. This charming, very suburban neighborhood features mainly small to medium-sized properties, available in the studio to 3 and 4 bedroom range. Many of the homes here are mature, well-established properties that were built between the 1940s and the late 1960s when the economy was booming. If you are a fan of historic homes and love to tinker, this could be the place for you.
Clinton Dr / N. Main St: This neighborhood is definitely suburban and packed with lushly landscaped properties that include tall Hard Pines, Loblolly Pines and Longleaf Pines, which provide awesome shade! Located north of the port that leads into Houston, a favorite hangout spot for a game of catch or just out for a stroll, is Galena Manor Park just off of Sage Dr. There are townhouses for rent as well as stand alone homes and a few apartment complexes. A nice mix of history and modern construction is evident in this neighborhood. Some of the homes date back to the 1950s era, while the town-homes and apartment complexes are of a more modern vintage. The choice all comes down to your personal preferences and whether or not you are a yard work person.
Holland Ave / 16th St: If renting a city apartment within a neighborhood that boasts a giant sports complex, as well as a beautifully sculpted park, then welcome home! This is your area without a doubt! The Galena Park Sports Complex rests on the northern edge of the neighborhood and Galena Park City Park is at its heart. So if you are fond of ballgames and kickball, or just enjoy having the convenience of a big, shady park close by for your evening walks, the Holland Avenue / 16th Street neighborhood will suit your needs perfectly! The typical property sizes range from large studio apartments to spacious 3 and 4 bedroom apartments as well as stand alone homes. Watch out when you are driving, as there are quite a few school zones.
Living in Galena Park is a wonderful experience for anyone who adores having a thriving metropolis a few miles away, but prefers the small town feel and vibe of a quieter city. On any given day, you can find residents sauntering down Clinton Ave. to browse and window shop, or over at Galena Park City Park enjoying the shade and perhaps having a picnic. Don't worry, it's not all about parks here, there are amazingly delicious restaurants to sample as well! Try Omega Charcoal Burger on Clinton Drive if you want an authentic "drive-in" experience. The owners are incredibly friendly and the burgers are out of this world! If you prefer to dine-in, just mosey up the street a little ways and try out the Deli House Restaurant. The Italian sub is dangerously addictive! You have been warned.
