Matagorda is located in south-central Texas. It has a population of 1,250 in 1942. However, after the end of World War II, the city began to experience a rapid growth of tourism. The population decreased to 605 by 1990, with only 7 businesses. By 2000, the population was at 7,10, and a growing number of tourists were moving to the area.
The Census Bureau reported that 100% of residents in Matagorda, TX are US citizens. The percentage increased in the last few years and was higher than the national average of 95%. The majority of people in Matagorda, TX work in sales and related occupations, construction and extraction jobs, and management jobs. However, there are a few exceptions to these numbers.
In 1834, the town was a popular cotton-growing area. The town had a cotton gin by 1825. In 1830, Matagorda had more than 1,400 residents, and a further 250 people lived outside of town. In the 1830s, Matagorda became one of the largest ports in Texas, and it became a hub for shipping and industry. By 1840, the town had its own chamber of commerce and a Mexican customhouse.
Matagorda County was a vital part of the Civil War. Union troops did not enter Matagorda, but the Union blockade crippled trade. Because the Union imposed a naval blockade of the Texas coast, the cotton market declined. The city was also devastated by emancipation. A large portion of residents now lived on a farm, and many turned to cattle raising. In 1866, the Stabler Patent Beef Packing Plant opened. Several years later, a hide and tallow factory was built.