Pearland is the fastest growing city in Brazoria County, positioned on a growth curve that extends well into the 21st century, fueled by an enviable location. However, Pearland's history goes far beyond the initial founding date. Native Indian inhabitants hosted their first European visitors in 1528. Such famous names as Cabeza de Vaca, La Salle, and Stephen F. Austin leap out from this tumultuous chapter in Texas' colorful history that traces the area's development to present-day Pearland. The tenacity of these early settlers formed the backbone of a thriving community that continues to grow, increasing from approximately 19,000 to 41,000 residents in the last decade alone (based on 2000 U.S. Census figures). In the spirit of our earlier settlers, we invite you to come for a visit, and stay for a lifetime!

A Little History about a Growing City

The City of Pearland began as a small railroad switching station in post Civil War Texas. Platted in 1894, the town drew a number of businesses and families from all over the world, spurred by newspaper ads touting "perfect climate,…is fertile, and easily cultivated".

Then, the Great Hurricane of 1900 miraculously spared the lives of the town’s residents, but threw them into total poverty by destroying businesses, homes, and farms. Many families left, taking the railroad’s free offer of a trip out of town. The handful that remained dug in, and turned the town around after years of struggle.

Today, their descendents carry on this legacy, overcoming adversity and teaching newcomers that building towards a future is done by planning in the present based on lessons learned in the past.

The result is a successful community of 36,000 residents, who reap the rewards of low-crime and small-town town atmosphere while living just 15 minutes away from world-renowned entertainment (Houston Symphony, Ballet, and Grand Opera) and health care (Texas Medical Center).