Explore Port Lavaca
Many people have visited this enchanted area of the Texas Mid-Gulf Coast for many years. The first European to explore the seven bays of Calhoun County was Alonza Alvarez de Pineda in 1519. In February of 1685, Rene Robert Cavelier, Sieur de la Salle landed on the shores near present day Indianola on Matagorda Bay and established the first French fort in Texas named Fort St. Louis. One of his four ships the LaBelle sank and was recently discovered in the waters of the Matagorda Bay. A statue of his likeness is located in Indianola Park.
Historical Downtown Area
The historic Main Street Theatre thrived in the 1930’s and 40’s and survived several hurricanes through the years. Many long-time residents have fond memories of going downtown for plays, movies and popcorn in a charming building with floor and balcony seating. As the commercial centers moved away from the downtown area, the theatre also was deserted and it remained empty for 30 years, falling into disrepair. In 1983, Russell Cain purchased the theatre and donated it to the Main Street Committee in 1992.
Driven by the goal of bringing live theatre back to Port Lavaca, extensive renovation work was done from the floors to the roof, with the help of grants, donations, and the work of dedicated volunteers.
