Palacios in Matagorda County, Texas — The American South (West South Central)
Whose land was this?
| | Hotel Fence Wrap Exhibit Walk | |
Photographed by Dave W, January 31, 2026
1. Whose land was this? Marker
This area was once home to the Karankawa, a nomadic tribe known for their tall stature, strength, and ingenuity. They migrated seasonally between the mainland and the barrier islands in their dug-out canoes and were renowned for their bows, said to be as tall as they were. To ward off mosquitos they developed a clever mixture of mud and alligator or shark grease to smear on their bodies. Although settlers attempted to eradicate them in the 1800s, their descendants (called Kawankawa Kadla), have since reconnected and are preserving this remarkable heritage.
Erected by Palacios Preservation Association. (Marker Number 3.)
Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Indigenous Peoples and Communities.
Location. 28° 41.969′ N, 96° 12.981′ W. Marker is in Palacios, Texas, in Matagorda County. It is on South Bay Boulevard west of 4th Street, on the left when traveling east. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 408 S Bay Blvd, Palacios TX 77465, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Regionally, this marker is in the American South and on the Gulf Coast. Globally, it is in North America, a Gulf of Mexico state, the Western Hemisphere, the Western World, and the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once New Spain, the Republic of Texas, one of the Confederate States of America, and the Antebellum South.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: Shanghai Pierce's Bull Pasture (here, next to this marker); Sharing Our Story (here, next to this marker); Bay View Hotel (here, next to this marker);
this page online
Photographed by Dave W, January 31, 2026
2. Whose land was this? Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on February 26, 2026. It was originally submitted on February 19, 2026, by Dave W of Co, Colorado. This page has been viewed 20 times since then. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on February 19, 2026, by Dave W of Co, Colorado. • James Hulse was the editor who published this page.
