Diamond in the Rubble: Hunting for Storm Survivors

The diamond-shaped plaques scattered throughout Galveston Island mark buildings that survived the devastating 1900 hurricane, America's deadliest natural disaster with up to 12,000 lives lost. These small markers represent structures that withstood catastrophic winds and flooding, serving as reminders of Galveston's remarkable resilience and recovery.

• Before 1900, Galveston was the "Wall Street of the Southwest" with numerous Texas firsts: post office, opera house, telephone, electric lights, medical college
• The hurricane struck on September 8, 1900, bringing 8-15 foot storm surges and 130+ mph winds that destroyed half the city
• Storm survivor plaques were created by the Galveston Historical Foundation in 2000 to commemorate the hurricane's centennial
• Buildings with plaques have been verified through historical records as having survived the catastrophic storm
• Fewer surviving buildings exist near the beachfront where damage was worst, with more found inland where debris formed a protective barrier
• Following the disaster, Galveston undertook massive engineering projects including the seawall and raising the island's elevation up to 17 feet
• Many surviving buildings were physically lifted or relocated during the grade-raising project between 1904-1910

To plan your own walk through Galveston's history and discover these remarkable survivor buildings, visit visitgalveston.com for resources, walking tours, and more information.

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