Orange, Texas

Orange is a city located in Orange County, Texas. As of the 2000 census, the city had a total population of 18,643. It is the county seat of Orange County{{GR|6}}, and is situated in East Texas. Located on the Sabine River, it lies east of Beaumont. Founded in 1836, it is a deep-water port (to the Gulf of Mexico).

Historical development

The harbor leading into the Port of Orange was dredged in 1914 to accommodate large ships. Ship building during World War I contributed to the growth in population and economy. The Great Depression affected the city negatively, and it was not until World War II that the local economy was boosted again. A U.S. Naval Station was installed and additional housing was provided for thousands of defense workers and servicemen and their families. The population increased to just over 60,000 residents. After the war, the peace-time population decreased to stabilize at about 25,000. Chemical plants would soon add to the local economy, and currently, are the leading source of revenue to the area. The U.S. Naval Station would eventualy close in December, 1975.

Related Topics:
1914 - World War I - Great Depression - World War II - 1975

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