Houston: The Capital That Wasn't
So, you're wondering if Houston ever wore the crown as the capital of Texas, huh? Well, buckle up, because this is a tale as old as time... or at least as old as the Lone Star State.
Houston: The Underdog Capital
Let's get one thing straight: Houston was the capital of Texas. But, and it's a big but, it was only for a brief, shining moment. Think of it as the Texas version of a one-hit wonder.
In the grand scheme of things, Texas has had a few capital cities. It's like the state couldn't quite make up its mind where to hang its hat. First, there was Washington-on-the-Brazos, then Harrisburg, Velasco, Columbia, and finally, Austin (which, let's be honest, made the smartest choice).
But before Austin stole the show, Houston had its fifteen minutes of fame. It was the capital from 1837 to 1839. Yep, you read that right. Two years. A blink of an eye in state history.
Why Houston Lost Out
So, what happened? Why didn't Houston get to keep the capital crown? Well, there are a few theories. Some say it was the mosquitoes. Others blame the heat. Personally, I think it was the lack of good Tex-Mex. But in all seriousness, Houston was a young, wild city back then. It was more interested in growing and expanding than in playing host to politicians.
Austin, on the other hand, was a bit more laid back. It had a slower pace and a more central location. Plus, it promised to build a fancy new capitol building (which, let's be honest, is always a good selling point).
Houston: The Eternal Runner-Up
So, while Houston might not be the capital anymore, it's definitely made a name for itself. It's the energy capital of the world, a cultural hub, and home to some of the best barbecue this side of the Mississippi. And let's face it, being the capital is overrated. You don't need to be the center of government to be the center of everything else.
So, the next time you're enjoying a delicious plate of fajitas in Houston, raise a glass to the city that once was, but is definitely still winning.
How To Texas Capital Trivia
- How to impress your friends with Texas trivia: Mention that Houston was once the capital.
- How to plan a Texas road trip: Include a stop in both Houston and Austin to compare and contrast.
- How to appreciate Texas history: Learn about the different capital cities and why they moved.
- How to order Tex-Mex: Start with queso and chips, obviously.
- How to say "y'all" correctly: Practice, practice, practice.