Historical View of Buffalo Bayou

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In a city that is visually dominated by automobiles and freeways, very few Houstonians realize that the reason for their city’s existence and prosperity is the waterway of Buffalo Bayou. Houston truly is “the town which built the port which built the city.” We live at a time when Houstonians are actively developing an appreciation of the bayou upon which their city was founded, an appreciation that can be greatly enhanced by looking at Buffalo Bayou in a historical context. By understanding this history, we are able to reconnect with the city’s strong connection to the water and ensure its protection for generations to come.In a city that is visually dominated by automobiles and freeways, very few Houstonians realize that the reason for their city’s existence and prosperity is the waterway of Buffalo Bayou. Houston truly is “the town which built the port which built the city.” We live at a time when Houstonians are actively developing an appreciation of the bayou upon which their city was founded, an appreciation that can be greatly enhanced by looking at Buffalo Bayou in a historical context. By understanding this history, we are able to reconnect with the city’s strong connection to the water and ensure its protection for generations to come.

Andrew Groocock

Buffalo Bayou Tour Guide

Andrew Groocock is originally from England, but has lived in Houston for more than 30 years and considers himself a Houstonian. He is a practicing artist, docent at The Museum of Fine Arts, and Houston tour guide. Andrew served as president of The Professional Tour Guide Association of Houston from 2014-2016 and, since 2015, has been a guide on the historical boat tours offered by The Buffalo Bayou Partnership. In 2017, he developed the historical boat tour “From Port to Port” for The Buffalo Bayou Partnership which highlights the history of Buffalo Bayou from Allen’s Landing to the Port of Houston.