Palacios in Matagorda County, Texas — The American South (West South Central)
The Most Important Shipwreck in the Western World
| | Hotel Fence Wrap Exhibit Walk | |
Photographed by Dave W, January 31, 2026
1. The Most Important Shipwreck in the Western World Marker
In the mid-1990s, Palacios became the base for marine archeologists who discovered and excavated La Salle's ship La Belle, which sank in nearby waters in 1686. Not only is this shipwreck noteworthy because it belonged to LaSalle, a famous explorer, but also because the murky conditions preserved much of the ship and its cargo. Many professionals, including James A. Bruseth, (leader of the excavation), volunteers, and curious visitors stayed at the Hotel.
Erected by Palacios Preservation Association. (Marker Number 25.)
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Anthropology & Archaeology • Exploration • Waterways & Vessels. A significant historical year for this entry is 1686.
Location. 28° 41.985′ N, 96° 12.943′ W. Marker is in Palacios, Texas, in Matagorda County. It is on South Bay Boulevard west of 4th Street, on the right when traveling south. 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: So, Is It Haunted? (a few steps from this marker); Palacios is for the Birds (a few steps from this marker); The Wrath of Carla (a few steps from this marker); And What about Mrs. Callaway's Great, Great Grandfather?
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Photographed by Dave W, January 31, 2026
2. The Most Important Shipwreck in the Western World Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on February 26, 2026. It was originally submitted on February 20, 2026, by Dave W of Co, Colorado. This page has been viewed 24 times since then. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on February 20, 2026, by Dave W of Co, Colorado. • James Hulse was the editor who published this page.
