A breif history of Houston and it’s Third Ward

By Atirikta Kumar @atiriktawrites

Houston is the fourth largest city in the United States as well as the most ethnically and culturally diverse. Often referred to as H-Town or Space City, the city is home to millions. Houston is a city that has much to offer.

Founded in 1836 by brothers Augustus Chapman and John Kirby Allen (later incorporated into a city on June 5, 1837), the city was named after General Sam Houston, who had won Texas’ independence from Mexico in the Battle of San Jacinto.

General Houston was the first and third president of the Republic of Texas and one of the first two people who represented Texas in the U.S. He was also the only person to serve as Governor of two states, as he was the seventh Governor of Texas and the sixth of Tennessee.

After the city was founded, it was divided into political geographical districts, known as the six wards. Today, the wards are not in legal use. However, they are a part of everyday lingo by Houstonians and are used to refer to many places in the city.

One of the wards in the greater Houston area is the third ward, where the University of Houston is located.

The third ward historically is a culturally rich African-American neighborhood. The ward houses Texas Southern University in addition to UH. It is also home to the oldest park in Texas, Emancipation Park, an homage to the end of slavery in the United States.

Located on the southeast corner of the third ward is Downtown Houston. The geographical proximity makes for a variety of different activities to explore and cultures to experience.

Maid Park and the Rockets at Maid Park and the Rockets at the Toyota Center, the city is a mainstay in sports.

The city is also home to well-known actors and singers such as Hilary Duff, Machine Gun Kelly, Mellisa Besonet and of course, Beyonce.

So whether you are a native Houstonian or new to the city, there is something new to discover every day. Welcome to Houston, it’s been waiting for you!