Established in 1965, this family event is one of Rockport’s most iconic and has been a tradition for over fifty years. The Wendel Family Fireworks Show is a cherished tradition in Rockport, Texas, celebrated annually on the Fourth of July.
4th Of July Firework Display
Origin:
The event was started by Jerry and Jan Wendel in 1965.
Location:
The fireworks show takes place in Rockport, and some of the best spots to view it are along Broadway/Fulton Beach Road, Highway 35 by Little Bay, Rockport Beach Park, and Rockport Marina and Sea Wall.
Timing:
The fireworks begin at dark on the Fourth of July.
Community Involvement: It’s a community-funded event, with donations keeping the tradition alive.
Social Presence:
The event also has a presence on social media, where updates and information are shared with the public.
This event is not just a display of fireworks; it’s a symbol of community spirit and unity, bringing together residents and visitors to celebrate Independence Day festively and memorably. It’s a testament to the Wendel family’s legacy and the community’s commitment to preserving this annual celebration. If you’re in Rockport for the Fourth of July, it’s a highlight you won’t want to miss!
Since its inception over 50 years ago, it’s continually grown in both size and popularity due to volunteers’ tireless efforts in organizing such an incredible annual celebration – each new generation carrying out their parents’ legacy through hard work day after day!
If you’ve never experienced the magic firsthand during your time at our event those who have moved away come back time and again throughout their lives to experience other great fireworks displays each year.” People enjoy coming because of its greatness and areas spectacular views. The annual Rockport Art Festival takes place during that weekend and is one of Rockport’s great annual events. “This area comes together during these times”. With good food available at all events, live music playing
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The RockportFulton.com website is a comprehensive guide to the towns of Rockport and Fulton, Texas. The website provides a wealth of information about the local area, including events, activities, and attractions.
Rockport Texas USA
Rockport Texas USA
Visitors to the website can find information about local festivals, markets, and events, as well as details about local businesses, restaurants, and accommodations. The website also features a calendar of events, so visitors can easily plan their trip and make the most of their time in Rockport and Fulton.
In addition to providing information about the local area.
Overall, the RockportFulton.com website is an excellent resource for anyone planning a trip to Rockport and Fulton, or for those who simply want to learn more about these charming coastal towns.
Fulton Harbor
Here are some additional links to help you explore the area
The Aransas National Wildlife Refuge is a very special place. Located on the Gulf Coast of Texas, it sits just north of beautiful Rockport, Texas. It is the home and a federally protected area that is dedicated to the conservation and protection of fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats. National wildlife refuges like Aransas are important for the protection and conservation of our world and our country's natural resources and biodiversity.
Established in 1937, the refuge has a rich history of preserving and enhancing the natural resources within its boundaries. They also provide recreational opportunities for the public to enjoy. It is a haven for wildlife and a destination for nature lovers alike.
In this article, we will explore its wonder, history, work, and legacy. Let's dive right in and learn more......
Aransas National Wildlife Refuge
Overview of the Refuge
The Aransas National Wildlife Refuge also referred to as ANWR, is the largest managed Fish and Wildlife Service-protected area in the great state of Texas. Its jurisdiction spans three counties: Aransas County, Refugio County, and Calhoun County.
The Refuge is a federally protected wildlife sanctuary under the protection, direct supervision, and jurisdiction of The United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS or FWS). It is an agency within the United States Department of the Interior. Which is dedicated to the management of fish, wildlife, and natural habitats in the United States. The mission of the agency is "working with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people.
U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Seal
The Federally Protected Refuge is made up of five units. Two of which (the Aransas and Tatton Units) are contiguous and located on the mainland. The Aransas Unit is the original part of the refuge. Its territory spans 47,261 acres, while the Tatton Unit is 7,568 acres. Then we have The Lamar and Myrtle Foester Whitmire Units which are smaller, respectively covering 979 acres and 3,440 acres.
The largest unit is the Matagorda Island Unit, which encompasses a 56,683-acre natural area that is managed as a unit of the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge and is an overlay to a state Wildlife Management Area. Texas Parks and Wildlife has the lead responsibility for public use management on the island, while the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge is responsible for wildlife and habitat management.
In total, the refuge covers 115,324 expansive acres.
Overview Map of the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge
ANWR features a diverse range of habitats, including oak uplands, grasslands, ponds, lakes, salt marshes, and freshwater marshes. This wide variety of habitats has contributed to the refuge's impressive species count. In fact, the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge has one of the highest species counts in the national refuge system. Making it one of the most biodiverse national refugees in the United States.
Taking all that into account, The Aransas National Wildlife Refuge is perhaps best known as the principal wintering ground for the only natural flock of whooping cranes in the world. These majestic birds make their way to the refuge each year, seeking out the warm, sheltered waters of the Gulf Coast as a respite from the colder temperatures further north. In addition to the whooping cranes, the refuge also attracts almost 400 other species of waterfowl and birds, including geese, ducks, pelicans, herons, egrets, gulls, sundial cranes, roseate spoonbills, ibises, quail, osprey, and a variety of migrating songbirds and shorebirds.
But the wildlife at the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge isn't limited to birds. The refuge is also home to a number of other species, including deer, javelinas (peccaries), armadillos, alligators, and turkeys. With so much diversity packed into one place, it's no wonder that the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in experiencing the natural beauty of the Texas Gulf Coast.
American Alligator
Photo by Clinton & Charles Robertson from RAF Lakenheath, UK & San Marcos, TX, USA & UK, CC BY-SA 2.0
History of the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge
The Aransas National Wildlife Refuge has a rich history dating back to the 1930s. The refuge was established as a wintering ground for migratory birds, particularly the whooping crane. It was created in response to the significant loss of wetland habitats and declining populations of migratory birds along the Gulf of Mexico flyway.
Photo by Robert W. Hines
On December 31, 1937, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed Executive Order 7784 to establish the Aransas Migratory Waterfowl Refuge, a protected area for migratory birds and other wildlife to breed and thrive. In 1940, Roosevelt issued a proclamation changing the name of the refuge to the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge.
In the autumn of 1938, a group of young men and women from the Civilian Conservation Corps arrived in Austwell, Texas, ready to make a difference. They were tasked with building infrastructure and facilities for the newly established Refuge. They worked tirelessly to construct roads, ditches, and firebreaks, as well as residential facilities for the refuge staff.
One of the most impressive feats of engineering undertaken was the construction of the spillway for Burgentine Lake, a major resting area for migratory waterfowl. This impressive structure would help to regulate the water levels in the lake, ensuring that it remained a vital stopover for the many birds that passed through the refuge.
But the men and women didn't stop there. They also worked to improve the road connecting the refuge to the nearby town of Austwell, grading it and making it more passable for vehicles.
Through their hard work and dedication, these young men helped to lay the foundation for the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge, a place that would become a haven for countless species of fish, wildlife, and plants. Their legacy lives on today, as the refuge continues to serve as an important destination for those seeking to experience the beauty and diversity of the Texas Gulf Coast.
Prior to its establishment as a refuge, the land had been used for ranching and farming. In the early 20th century, the federal government began purchasing land in the area with the goal of establishing a refuge for migratory birds. The refuge was officially established in 1937 and has since played a vital role in the conservation and protection of wildlife and habitats along the Texas coast.
Throughout its history, the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge has undergone several notable changes and events. In the 1970s, the refuge expanded to include additional land, increasing its size to over 115,324 acres. In the 1980s, the refuge was designated as a critical habitat for the whooping crane, further solidifying its importance for the conservation of this endangered species. Today, the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge continues to be a vital location for the protection and conservation of a wide variety of wildlife and habitats.
Conservation
Today, the refuge is a part of the National Wildlife Refuge System, which administers a network of lands and waters for the conservation, management, and restoration of fish, wildlife, and plant resources.
Conservation and protection are key priorities at the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge works with a number of organizations, including the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, to protect and conserve natural resources within its boundaries. Efforts to enhance and restore habitats are also an important part of the refuge's mission. These efforts help to ensure that the resources at the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge are preserved and protected for future generations to enjoy.
In addition to its conservation efforts, the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge also plays a vital role in educating the public about the importance of protecting and preserving natural resources. The refuge offers a variety of educational programs for school groups and other organizations, as well as interpretive exhibits and guided tours for individual visitors. Through these efforts, the refuge aims to raise awareness about the importance of conservation and encourage the public to take an active role in protecting and preserving the natural world.
U.S. Department of the Interior, CC BY-SA 2.0
The Aransas National Wildlife Refuge is one such refuge that uses a variety of land management tools to preserve local plants and animals, including prescribed burns, wetland management, protection of native species, and trapping.
Prescribed burns are used to mimic natural fires that clear old vegetation, helping native plants regenerate and local wildlife thrive.
Photo by U.S. Department of Agriculture
Wetland management involves adjusting water levels in moist soil impoundments to provide a habitat for wintering waterfowl and breeding mottled ducks.
The refuge also works to control invasive and exotic plant and animal species, and trapping is used to manage certain species populations for the benefit of the overall ecosystem. The refuge also offers recreational activities such as hiking and birdwatching, and it relies on donations and volunteers to support its mission.
The Whooping Crane
As we mentioned earlier in the articleThe Aransas National Wildlife Refuge is perhaps best known as the principal wintering ground for the only natural flock of whooping cranes in the world.
Klaus Nigge of U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Headquarters, CC BY 2.0
The whooping crane (Grus Americana) is a truly majestic bird, with its striking white plumage, distinctive red crown, and long, dark bill. Standing at an impressive height of up to five feet, it is the tallest bird in North America, earning it its name for the whooping sound it is known to make.
Sasata, CC BY-SA 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons
Unfortunately, the whooping crane is also an endangered species, having been pushed to the brink of extinction by unregulated hunting and loss of habitat. By 1941, there were just 15 wild and two captive whooping cranes remaining. However, thanks to conservation efforts, the total number of whooping cranes has now exceeded 800, including the surviving migratory population, as well as three reintroduced flocks and birds in captivity. These majestic birds make their winter home at the refuge, where they can be observed by visitors during their annual winter migration.
While adult whooping cranes are white with a red crown and a long, dark, pointed bill, immature birds are distinctive cinnamon brown. In flight, these birds are particularly impressive, with their long necks held straight and their long, dark legs trailing behind. The black wing tips of adult whooping cranes are also visible during flight.
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Here, these birds rely on a diet that is largely comprised of blue crabs, which make up as much as 90% of their energy intake in some winters. This highlights the important role that the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge plays in the conservation and protection of these magnificent birds, as well as the diverse array of species that call this place home.
Their preservation has been due to a worldwide effort by conservation groups like the International Crane Foundation. An excellent organization dedicated to protecting and bringing back this great treasure. Other threatened and endangered species such as the Kemp's ridley sea turtle, and the American Alligator can also be found at the refuge as well.
National Park Service, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Here is a complete list of all the different species found at the Refuge:
Recreational activities at the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge
The Aransas National Wildlife Refuge is also a destination for nature lovers looking to enjoy a variety of recreational activities. Visitors to the refuge can participate in outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and fishing. The refuge is also a popular location for kayaking, with several launch sites available within its boundaries.
In addition to these outdoor activities, the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge also offers guided tours and educational programs for visitors. These programs can provide a deeper understanding and appreciation of the refuge's unique wildlife and habitats. For example, the refuge offers guided bird walks and nature photography workshops, as well as educational talks and presentations.
While the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge is a great destination for recreational activities, it is important to remember to minimize the impact on the wildlife and natural habitats within the refuge. Responsible recreation involves respecting the refuge's rules and regulations, staying on designated trails, and leaving the area as you found it. By following these guidelines, visitors can help to preserve the beauty and natural resources of the refuge for future generations.
Admission to the preserve is free. Pets are not allowed. A trail map and guide are available here.
How to support the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge
There are many ways to support the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge and its efforts to protect and conserve the unique wildlife and habitats within its boundaries. One way to get involved is to volunteer your time and skills at the refuge. The Aransas National Wildlife Refuge often has opportunities for volunteers to assist with tasks such as habitat restoration, trail maintenance, and educational programs.
Another way to support the refuge is to make a financial contribution. Donations to the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge can be used to fund conservation and management efforts, as well as educational programs and events. You can also support the refuge by becoming a member of the Friends of Aransas National Wildlife Refuge group. This organization is dedicated to supporting the refuge and its mission through a variety of activities and initiatives.
There are also many ongoing conservation and management efforts at the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge that the public can support. For example, the refuge is currently working to restore the habitat for the endangered whooping crane, as well as other threatened and endangered species. The refuge is also conducting research projects to better understand the needs and behaviors of these species, with the goal of improving their conservation efforts. By supporting these efforts, you can play a role in the protection and conservation of the unique wildlife and habitats found at the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge.
Getting to the Refuge
From the South: Follow Highway 35N to the FM 774 exit. Turn right on FM 774 and go approximately 6 miles, winding through the farm fields. Turn right again on FM 2040. Drive another 6 miles to the Refuge gate. Go to the Visitor Contact Station to register.
From the North: Travel south on Hwy 35 to Tivoli. Continue past Tivoli approximately 1 mile to the FM 239 exit (on your left). Follow FM 239 to Austwell. Upon entering Austwell, FM 239 turns into FM 774 at the curve. Continue on FM 774. Follow 774 and take a right at the stop sign. At the end of the street, take a right again. As you exit Austwell, drive ½ mile to the FM 2040 intersection. Turn left on FM 2040 and drive 6 miles to the Refuge gate. Go to the Visitor Contact Station to register.
The GPS coordinates for the refuge’s main entrance are 28.313449, -96.804022.
Auto Tour and TrailsDaily30 minutes before sunrise - 30 minutes after sunset
Visitor CenterDaily9:00 am - 4:00 pm, Closed Federal Holidays
Conclusion
The Aransas National Wildlife Refuge is a unique and important destination that is home to a wide variety of wildlife and habitats. Located on the central coast of Texas, the refuge is a vital location for the protection and conservation of our country's natural resources and biodiversity. From the endangered whooping crane to the Kemp's ridley sea turtle, the refuge is home to many threatened and endangered species that rely on the refuge for their survival.
In addition to its importance for wildlife and conservation, the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge is also a destination for nature lovers to enjoy a variety of recreational activities, such as hiking, birdwatching, and fishing. The refuge also offers guided tours and educational programs, providing visitors with the opportunity to learn more about the unique wildlife and habitats found within its boundaries.
If you have the chance, we encourage you to visit the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge and experience all that it has to offer. And if you want to do your part to support the refuge and its mission, there are many ways to get involved, such as volunteering or making a donation. Every little bit helps to ensure that the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge remains a haven for wildlife and a destination for nature lovers for years to come.
To learn more about the Refuge and make plans visit their website
The RockportFulton.com website is a comprehensive guide to the towns of Rockport and Fulton, Texas. The website provides a wealth of information about the local area, including events, activities, and attractions.
Rockport Texas USA
Visitors to the website can find information about local festivals, markets, and events, as well as details about local businesses, restaurants, and accommodations. The website also features a calendar of events, so visitors can easily plan their trip and make the most of their time in Rockport and Fulton.
In addition to providing information about the local area.
RockportFulton.com is also a great resource for those who are interested in the history and culture of Rockport and Fulton. The website includes articles and photos that highlight the rich history of the towns and their unique character.
Overall, the RockportFulton.com website is an excellent resource for anyone planning a trip to Rockport and Fulton, or for those who simply want to learn more about these charming coastal towns.
The Town of Fulton Texas
Here are some additional links to help you explore the area
Rockport, Texas is a charming coastal city located in Aransas County, about an hour's drive north of Corpus Christi. Nestled along the Gulf of Mexico, Rockport is known for its beautiful beach, world-class fishing, Bird Watching, vibrant art community, super fun festivals, and rich history. Established in 1871 Rockport is a small but vibrant city with a population of just over 7,000 people. Despite its size, it has a lot to offer visitors and residents alike.
Rockport Texas Waterfront
Rockport Texas Welcome sign is shown when you come into the city.
Rockport Beach Park
One of the top attractions in Rockport is Rockport Beach Park, a serene 1-mile stretch of sandy shoreline where visitors can swim, sunbathe, or just relax and watch the waves roll in. The beach is also a popular spot for birdwatching, as the area is home to a variety of migratory and native species. The beach host several bird-watching observatories and several great spots to set up your camera to get great photos of the birds. The beach is open 7 days a week 365 days a year. Rockport beach also has four event centers available for a party, wedding, or corporate event. You can get more information about the beach by visiting our Rockport Beach Park page here. Rockport Beach Park | rockportfulton
If you really want to see something cool you might want to check out our Virtual Tour Page. Here you can click on an icon and it will either provide you with more information or take you to another spot check it out here: Virtual Tour | rockportfulton
Rockport Texas hosts world-class fishing
known for its world-class fishing, with a variety of saltwater species that can be found in the bay and offshore. The area is home to a number of popular fish species, including redfish, trout, and flounder, as well as larger game fish like Black Drum and sand shark.
There are many different ways to enjoy fishing in Rockport, depending on your preferences and skill level. For those who prefer to stay on land, there are plenty of opportunities to fish from the shore, with a number of public piers and fishing docks scattered throughout the town. If you want to go out on the water, there are a variety of fishing charters and guides available that can take you out on a boat and show you the best spots to catch fish.
Here is a list of all the fishing piers throughout the Rockport Fulton area:
RockportFulton.com has a list of Rockport Texas fishing guides that only have 4-5 star ratings amongst its clients. These are the Top local Rockport Texas fishing guides that are experts in these local waters. Taking a trip with them will guarantee fishing success but also give you some memories to last a lifetime.
Here is a list of all the 4-5 star rated fishing guides throughout the Rockport Fulton area:
Regardless of how you choose to fish, Rockport is an excellent destination for anglers of all skill levels. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, you'll find plenty of opportunities to reel in a big one in this coastal town.
Bird watching
Bird watching in Rockport, Texas is a popular activity for both locals and tourists alike. Located on the central coast of Texas, Rockport is home to a diverse array of bird species, including pelicans, herons, and egrets. One of the best places to go bird watching in Rockport is theAransas National Wildlife Refuge, which is home to the whooping crane, a critically endangered species that makes its home here during the winter months.
Rockport Texas Birding
The refuge is also a stopover point for many migratory birds, making it an excellent place to see a variety of species in one location. In addition to the refuge, Rockport Beach Park and the Rockport Harbor are also great spots for bird watching. Pack your binoculars and be on the lookout for colorful species such as roseate spoonbills, painted buntings, and red-winged blackbirds.
Aransas National Wildlife Refuge has been attracting birders and whooping crane enthusiasts alike. The winter season is their time to shine as they offer tours of nesting cranes for anyone interested. Many local bird clubs such as the ARBCA have contributed greatly to preserving unique areas like Connie Hagar Sanctuary where many hummingbirds migrate through on their way south this fall!
Local operators are offering wintertime tours of nesting Whooping Cranes at large wildlife refuge nearby which sits near Aransas Bird and Nature Club that preserves some other reserves including one called “Connie’s Hagar” sanctuary with easy access from migration routes for several species of Hummingbird.
For those interested in the arts, Rockport is a true gem. The town is home to a thriving creative community, with galleries, studios, and performance spaces scattered throughout the area. The New Rockport Center for the Arts, located in a historic building in the heart of downtown, is a particularly popular destination for artists and art enthusiasts.
New Rockport Center for the Arts Building
This organization hosts a variety of exhibitions, classes, and workshops, making it a great place to learn about and engage with the local art scene. In addition to the Rockport Center for the Arts, there are also many independent galleries and studios that showcase the work of local artists. These spaces often feature exhibitions of paintings, sculptures, and other art forms, and some even offer classes and workshops for those who want to learn more about the creative process. In addition to visual art, Rockport is also home to a number of performance spaces, including theaters and music venues, where visitors can enjoy live performances by local and touring artists. Overall, Rockport is a wonderful destination for anyone interested in the arts, with a wide range of opportunities to engage with and appreciate the creative talent of the community.
Rockport Texas's famous Live oaks
Besides the abundant waterfront Large windswept live oaks are a dominating feature of the area and the state’s oldest live oak, “The Big Tree,” resides on the nearby Lamar Peninsula.
The Wind-Swept Live Oaks of Rockport, Texas are another popular natural attraction in the area. These majestic oak trees are known for their gnarled and twisted branches, which are shaped by the strong coastal winds that blow through the region. The trees are found along the coast of Rockport and are a popular spot for photographers and nature lovers. They are a testament to the resilience of nature and the beauty of the natural world.
Wind Swept Oaks dominate the Rockport Texas landscape
Rockport Texas Festivals Markets, and Events
Rockport, Texas is home to a number of festivals, markets, and events throughout the year, offering something for everyone. One of the most popular events is the monthly Rockport Fulton Market Days, which is held on every third weekend of each month. The market features a variety of vendors selling handmade crafts, locally grown produce, and other goods, as well as food trucks and live music.
Another popular event in Rockport is the Rockport Fulton Seafair, which is held in October and features a variety of activities, including a parade, live music, and crab races.
The Rockport Art Festival, which is held every first weekend in July, is another must-see event, with over 100 artists exhibiting their work in a variety of mediums.
For those looking for more patriotic festivities, the 4th of July Patriot Boat Parade is a can't-miss event, with boats decorated in red, white, and blue parading through the waters of Rockport.
For a full calendar of events in Rockport, visitors can check out the RockportFulton.com Calendar of events page, which has a comprehensive list of all the festivals, markets, and events happening in the area. Overall, Rockport is a lively and vibrant town with a calendar full of exciting events and activities for visitors and residents alike.
The RockportFulton.com website is a comprehensive guide to the towns of Rockport and Fulton, Texas. The website provides a wealth of information about the local area, including events, activities, and attractions.
Visitors to the website can find information about local festivals, markets, and events, as well as details about local businesses, restaurants, and accommodations. The website also features a calendar of events, so visitors can easily plan their trip and make the most of their time in Rockport and Fulton.
In addition to providing information about the local area.
RockportFulton.com is also a great resource for those who are interested in the history and culture of Rockport and Fulton. The website includes articles and photos that highlight the rich history of the towns and their unique character.
Overall, the RockportFulton.com website is an excellent resource for anyone planning a trip to Rockport and Fulton, or for those who simply want to learn more about these charming coastal towns.
Here are some additional helpful links while exploring the Rockport Texas area:
