PORT ARTHUR, Texas — Port Arthur has a lot to celebrate. As of Friday, the city is 125 years old.
The city if named after its founder, Arthur Stilwell, and was founded in 1898. Port Arthur has survived two world wars, a civil rights movement and an onslaught of storms that led to population declines.
Its rich history is a true testament of its resiliency.
Port Arthur Mayor Thurman Bartie said the city has had its ups and downs, but he believes they are on an upward swing.
"Over 125-year period you go through these different cycles," said Bartie.
Jeff Hayes is a Port Arthur and realtor. He said the original plan for the city was to be a rail hub that connected the Gulf of Mexico to the rest of the country.
"They were going to ship things like grain out of here, but when Spindletop came in, the whole world changed," said Hayes.
Having grown up during the period of segregation in the beginning of integration. Mayor Barite said that he has seen some changes.
“I was a young lad, but I can recall those days and I see the differences," said Bartie.
With a strong industrial economic base, both Bartie and Hayes are optimistic about the future of Port Arthur.
"What I think is in front of us, going to the 150th is a lot greater than what we've even obtained here at the 125th,” said Bartie.
The first event to celebrate the city's 125th anniversary will be a banquet held by the greater Port Arthur Chamber of Commerce on January 26, 2023.
There will be more events throughout the Spring.