Brownsville, Texas
Nestled in the heart of the Rio Grande delta, just north of Mexico and with the Gulf of Mexico beaches close by, Brownsville, Texas is a dynamic, bustling city that is a perfect relocation and business destination. The city is a semi-tropical paradise of palm trees, exotic birds and cool Gulf breezes. Drenched in South Texas heritage and situated on the banks of the Rio Grande, Brownsville is a joined by hundreds of years of tradition, history and family vales.
History:
During the Civil War, Brownsville worked as a major port through which large quantities of cotton and other products were exported by the Confederate States. The last battle of the Civil War, the Battle of Palmito Ranch, was fought on a field located a short distance from the city. From 1865 to 1916, much time was spent in reconstruction and maintenance of law and order. It was necessary for U.S. Government troops, state militia and Texas Rangers to be kept in the area to protect the citizens of Brownsville from raids by bandits, American outlaws and Mexican revolutionaries. By the early 1900s, Brownsville was enjoying success and a rapid increase in population. And in 1904, the St. Louis, Brownsville and Mexico Railroad was completed and a telephone system followed. Electricity, water and sewer systems were dedicated few years later, and the Brownsville and Matamoros Bridge across the Rio Grande River was opened in 1909. On September 8, 1926, The Junior College of the Lower Rio Grande Valley (later named Texas Southmost College) admitted its first class. In 1945 Fort Brown was decommissioned and in 1948 the City and College acquired the land. Between 1945 and 1970 Brownsville population continued to grow, doubling from 25,000 to 50,000 residents. The City of Brownsville was declared an “All-America City” in the year 2001.
Economy:
Brownsville is the sixth fastest growing manufacturing region in the country, according to a national ranking by Industry Week Magazine. The same survey rates Brownsville 55th out of 310 metropolitan areas nationwide as a good place to do business. Brownsville is the front door to free trade. A quality, award-winning workforce provides cost-effectiveness and productivity unrivaled along the border. Continental Airlines provides daily, direct flights from the Brownsville International Airport. The airport's proximity plays a vital role in Brownsville's economy. It is the closest Rio Grande Valley airport to South Padre Island and the Republic of Mexico. Agriculture also plays a significant role in Brownsville, as well as all of Cameron County. With more than 240 sunshine filled days every year, Brownsville boasts a local multi-million dollar agriculture industry, with approximately 455,000 acres of land in the county dedicated to farming and ranching. The major crops include upland cotton, cabbage, corn for grain, onions, sugarcane, tomatoes, sweet corn, carrots, bell peppers and citrus. The shrimping industry pumps an average of $60 million dollars a year into Brownsville's economy, and indirectly contributes to the creation of thousands of jobs throughout the city.
Tourism:
Brownsville's moderate climate is perfect for nature and cultural activities: beaches, golfing, sightseeing, wildlife viewing or fishing. The most popular attraction is the Gladys Porter Zoo, with its more than 1500 animal species in natural settings. National wildlife preserves and historic sites are found around town. Numerous museums bring a variety of the city's rich heritage alive. The delights of Mexico are just steps from downtown, and the Mexican and Spanish cultural influences come to life in festivals and artistic performances throughout the year. Visit the Historic Brownsville Museum, a museum chronicling Brownsville's history through photo and rotating exhibits. The Brownsville Heritage Education Center, located within the museum, also presents slide shows, lectures and other special events.
Colleges/Universities:
• University of Texas at Brownsville and Texas Southmost College
• Kaplan College - Brownsville
• Southern Careers Institute - Brownsville
• Southern Texas Vocational Technical Institute
Interesting Facts:
• The first paved streets in Brownsville consisted of wooden block paving, laid in 1912.
• The area is known for producing the finest, most delicious grapefruits in the country.
Helpful Links:
• Brownsville Real Estate
• Brownsville Storage Facility
• Brownsville Insurance
• Brownsville Dental Offices
• Brownsville Moving Companies