Marker Inscription
Early settlers in the eastern and central areas of San Patricio county faced difficulty traveling across Corpus Christi Bay to Corpus Christi, the main center for trade. The Reef Road, which according to local tradition was discovered by indians, was the shortest and most favored route. Consisting of oyster shell reefs close to the water's surface, the road was passable only at low tide. Construction of the railroad (1887) and first causeway (1915) across the bay signalled a decline in usage of the road, but it remains an important part of the county's history.
About this site
Reef Road is a historical marker in Portland, San Patricio County, dedicated in 1989. It is one of 35 historical markers documented in San Patricio County in the Texas Historical Commission Atlas, among 59 historic sites cataloged across the county.
The site sits at 27.8558, -97.3531 near Portland. The nearest cataloged historic site is Bay View College, Site of (historical marker), about 2.5 miles away. Others within a short drive include Chat Work Club, Site of West Portland, and Site of White Point Mass Graves of 1919 Hurricane Victims.
This record corresponds to Texas Historical Commission Atlas #5409004225. Use the map below for its exact position and turn-by-turn directions.
