Nestled along the picturesque Gulf of Mexico coastline, Fulton, Texas beckons travelers with its rich history, charming ambiance, and abundant natural beauty. Let’s delve into what makes this coastal gem a must-visit destination.
Fulton Texas A Brief History
Fulton was founded in 1866 and owes its name to George Ware Fulton, a visionary Engineer, entrepreneur, and, land developer who left an indelible mark on this South Texas fishing community. He founded businesses, rallied investors, and breathed life into projects others deemed impossible. His entrepreneurial spirit fueled the growth of Fulton, attracting settlers, fishermen, and adventurers. As of the 2020 census, Fulton’s population stood at 1,523 people, 542 households, and 370 families residing in the town., but its allure extends far beyond mere numbers.
The Town of Fulton
Coastal Charms
Fishing and Beyond
Fulton’s heart beats to the rhythm of the tides. The Aransas Bay cradles this town, while the Gulf of Mexico lies just five miles across the bay. To the west and north, Copano Bay stretches out, inviting anglers and nature enthusiasts alike. The public Fulton Fishing Pier extends across the bay, providing a serene spot to cast a line or soak in the sunset.
Fulton Fishing Pier
Fulton Mansion State Historic Site
A visit to Fulton would be incomplete without exploring the Fulton Mansion State Historic Site. Once the home of George Ware Fulton himself, this stately mansion now opens its doors to curious visitors. Step back in time as you wander through its elegant rooms and lush gardens, and gaze upon the breathtaking views of Aransas Bay.
The Fulton Mansion State Historical Site
The Perfect Getaway
Best Places to Live
Fulton isn’t just a tourist spot; it’s a place where some lucky souls call home. The town’s laid-back vibe, friendly locals, and proximity to the water make it an ideal spot for those seeking a quieter coastal lifestyle. Imagine waking up to the sound of seagulls and sipping coffee with a view of the bay—Fulton offers precisely that.
Map to Fulton Texas
Planning Your Trip to Fulton Texas
Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a longer stay, Fulton has something for everyone. Here are some must-do activities:
Birdwatching: The nearby Aransas National Wildlife Refuge is a haven for birdwatchers, especially during the winter when the endangered whooping cranes arrive.
Beach Time: Head to the sandy shores of Rockport Beach Park for sunbathing, picnics, and beachcombing.
Fishing: Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a curious visitor, the Fulton Fishing Pier invites you to cast your worries away and connect with the rhythm of the sea.
Fulton, Texas, may be small, but its big-hearted community and coastal allure leave an indelible impression. Whether you’re a history buff, an angler, or simply seeking tranquility by the water, Fulton awaits you with open arms. Come, explore, and create your memories in this hidden coastal treasure.
So pack your sunscreen, grab your fishing rod, and let Fulton’s salty breeze weave its magic around you. 🌊🌴
Fulton Waterfront
Who we are
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.
New Rockport Center for the Arts
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.
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 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.
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. has always been known for its great fishing, coastal climate, bird watching, and world-class beaches. It is also famous for its large iconic Big Blue Crab structures that have watched over its shorelines for the last few decades. This article will explain its history and all about the current structure today.
Big Blue Crab of Rockport Texas
History of the Big Blue Crab of Rockport, Texas
The famous big blue crab has been a popular tourist attraction in Aransas County since 1957. It all started when Sal Silverman, who owned the Del Mar Grill restaurant with his wife Dorothy, had an idea to build something eye-catching on top of it. They both wanted to create something special that would attract people to the restaurant and give them the edge over other restaurants nearby. Dorothy used locally caught blue crabs to make her signature delicious crab cakes. Not only would people come from far and wide seeking out this legendary dish, but people would stop by just to get a picture taken with the famous giant blue crab.
The crab was 18 X 25 feet wide and 25 feet deep from claw to fin. A company in Houston, which built floats for parades, had it constructed from rebar, fiberglass, chicken wire, and Paper Mache. In 1965, the Grill closed. The next year, the crab was purchased by the Chamber of Commerceto be used in parades and displays to promote the Rockport area. In October 1966, the crab was moved to Navigation Park, which is now Veterans Memorial Park. In 1969, a retired painter from Indiana, Ed Warner, repainted the crab. Tourists and locals loved to have their photographs taken in front of the crab.
The first big crab was finally damaged beyond repair.
The crab survived Hurricane Beulah in 1967 and Hurricane Celia in 1970. But eventually, time took its toll and the crab deteriorated. It was removed and later buried out by Palm Harbor. In the summer of 2004, a committee was formed to “Bring Back the Big Blue Crab.” Money was raised at area events by selling crab-themed merchandise.
There have been talks about having this original crab dug up and having a team of archeologists try and gather some information about the dimensions and colors to have a new one rebuilt as well.
In 2012, local artist David Allgood worked day and night on building a new crab. That August, the crab was installed on Little Bay to the west of the Beach entrance. The crab was one foot bigger than the original one which sat on top of the Del Mar Grill. Folks could once again have their photo taken in front of this famous Rockport icon.
The Iconic structure was huge! People would travel to the area just to look at the crab and to take its picture. Many say this was the greatest of the 3 crabs.
Everything in Rockport was thriving and going well for the crab until August 2017 when the area was hit by a devastating category 4 hurricane. Its eyewall went right over Rockport bringing winds well over 150mph. The Great Big Blue Crab could not sustain the force.
The next morning when officials were out assessing the damage this image emerged and everyone knew that the Great Giant Blue Crab was damaged beyond repair.
As the community got well on its way to restoring and cleaning up the damage left from the storm a group was formed and begin plans to have a new Crab Built and set in the place of the old one. The new Crab would need to be built to be able to withstand not only the ravages of time but also to sustain any future storms that may impact the area. Proposals for artists were sent out and a renowned artist named Joe Barrington was selected for the project.
In November 2017, Winery on the Bay held a fundraiser and silent auction to raise funds for crab #3. About $5,000 was raised at this event. More money was raised selling T-shirts and Crab Merchandise at the Winery. Don Adoff and many others have spearheaded the efforts. Fabrication Began.
The crab arrived in Aransas County on Tuesday, July 27th and installation began on July 28th, 2021. There still needs to be work on the brickwork and the landscaping phase. The world will be able to enjoy the crab from now on. Aransas County residents and all of our visitors miss the crab. The Big Blue Crab will be the centerpiece of our waterfront development. It’s going to be an amazing place for people to come and enjoy themselves
Check out the Video of the Crab's Arrival
The Rockport Fulton big blue crab has finally been installed and completed! The project took 4 years to complete, spanning a concerted effort of many dedicated volunteers. Joe Barrington is the award-winning artist that designed this new landmark sculpture lovingly called “The Big Blue Crab.”
The New crab weighs around 6000 pounds, is made of stainless steel, and has a powder coat that is designed to last for at least 10 years.
The landmark sculpture stands at a towering height and symbolizes protection for all those who visit.
The Leadership of Keep Aransas County Beautiful, The Aransas County Navigation District, The City of Rockport, Aransas County, and all of those who kept hope alive after Hurricane Harvey. The Big Blue Crab will be a pillar of your love for our community and the people who love RockportFulton.
We would like to recognize the dedicated leaders who brought this project to life.
the wonderful artist Joe Barrington for taking on this project along with Debbie Hirsch Parker, Rosemary White, Neli Spurrell, Don Aboff, John Aquilino, D’Ann Janysek Williams, Judy Sutterfield, Amanda Sutterfield Wilson, Donna Gregory, Mary Brydon Aquilino, Mark Waters, Malcolm Dieckow, Kerry Mauch Goodall, Sue Bonnar, and Diana Harrington.
The restoration efforts continue today
The Big Blue Crab #3 structure is now finished. The sponsor's bricks have been installed. Benches have also been added along with a plaque showing the crab's history as well as some local oyster shells under the new crab.
This big blue crab is located between the Rockport Harbor Festival Grounds and the Little Bay Shoreline about 1 min walking distance of the Rockport Beach Park entrance in Rockport, Texas
Here are the directions for the Big Blue Crab Structure
Thank you for reading. We hope you found it insightful and enjoyable to learn about the Big Blue Crab of Rockport Texas. Please be sure to visit our Home page RockportFulton.com for more stories and information
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
