Welcome to The Houston Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• UH, Rice upgrade football game day experience.

• Dash and Comets icon promote women's sports.

• A deep dive into the life of John Henry Kirby.

• And more…

Quote of the Week

 “Mastery of life is not a question of control, but of finding a balance between human and being.” 

–Eckhart Tolle

Trivia

Which annual Houston event is known for celebrating the city's diverse cultures with food, music, and dance?

A) Houston International Festival

B) Bayou City Art Festival

C) Houston Food Fest

D) WorldFest-Houston International Film Festival

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia:

The historic theater district in Houston with nine major performing arts organizations is C) Theater District.

The Best Stories Of The Week

💼Business

University of Houston, Rice University upgrade game day experience ahead of football season. (link)

Houston-based company to provide energy for Meta's data centers. (link)

🏒Sports

Houston Dash and Comets icon discuss efforts to grow women's sports. (link)

Houston area athletes make up half of Texas’ Paris 2024 Paralympians. (link)

🏦Finance

Houston Methodist expanding hospital, care center in $247 million project. (link)

Upcoming Events

Here are some events that are happening in our city this week. There is a good mix between sports, entertainment, conferences, concerts, and more.

Sports

🏀 One Day Basketball Camp
13018 Brittmoore Park Dr, Houston, TX
Monday, Sep 2nd | 9:00 am | (More info)

⚽ Memorial Middle School Soccer
12550 Vindon Dr, Houston, TX
Wednesday, Sep 4th | 6:30 pm | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎵 Sinead Harnett - The Boundaries Tour
The Bronze Peacock at House of Blues Houston, Houston, TX
Tuesday, Sep 3th | 7:00 PM | (More info)

🎸 Glenn Hughes
Warehouse Live Midtown, Houston, TX
Wednesday, Sep 4th | 8:00 PM | (More info)

Family

️🍅 FAMILY FUN! Choose Your Party Llama
728 W 19th St, Houston, TX
Monday, September 2nd | 11:30 AM | (More info)

Image of the Week

Every week, I have a habit of making some AI art about our city.

This week, I typed in “Urban landscape of Houston with a focus on pedestrian pathways and green spaces” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

Houston Historical Events

1877: Southern Pacific Railroad arrives in Houston.

In 1877, the arrival of the Southern Pacific Railroad in Houston marked a transformative moment in the city's history, significantly boosting its status as a major transportation and commercial hub. The connection to the Southern Pacific Railroad linked Houston to important markets across the southern United States, facilitating the movement of goods, people, and resources. This development was instrumental in accelerating Houston's economic growth and expanding its influence as a key player in the region's trade networks.

The railroad's arrival brought new opportunities for business and industry in Houston. It allowed local producers to efficiently transport their goods, such as cotton, timber, and livestock, to distant markets, thereby increasing profitability and encouraging further investment in the city's infrastructure. The enhanced connectivity also attracted new settlers and entrepreneurs, contributing to the rapid population growth and urbanization of Houston in the late 19th century.

The Southern Pacific Railroad's arrival in 1877 laid the groundwork for Houston's evolution into a major transportation nexus. It solidified the city's position as a strategic gateway between the East and West coasts, as well as the Gulf of Mexico. This pivotal event in Houston's history not only fueled economic prosperity but also shaped the city's identity as a dynamic center of commerce and innovation, setting the stage for its continued growth and development in the decades to come.

Famous People From Houston

John Henry Kirby (1860–1940): Businessman and founder of Kirby Petroleum Company.

Early Life and Business Beginnings (1860–1889)

John Henry Kirby was born on November 16, 1860, in Tyler County, Texas. Raised in a rural environment, Kirby developed a strong work ethic from an early age. His interest in law and business led him to study law independently, and he was admitted to the Texas bar in 1885. Kirby’s early legal career focused on land and timber cases, which laid the groundwork for his later ventures into the lumber industry. His legal expertise and understanding of land resources would soon propel him into the world of business.

The Rise of the Lumber Industry (1890–1901)

In the late 19th century, Kirby recognized the potential of East Texas’s vast timber resources and began acquiring large tracts of land. In 1890, he founded the Kirby Lumber Company, which quickly became one of the largest lumber enterprises in the United States. Kirby's ability to secure financial backing and his strategic acquisitions of land and railroads allowed him to dominate the industry. The Kirby Lumber Company played a significant role in the economic development of Texas, providing jobs and infrastructure that contributed to the growth of the region.

Connection to Houston (1892–1940)

John Henry Kirby's connection to Houston was central to his business success. In 1892, he moved his operations to Houston, which became the headquarters for his growing business empire. Houston's strategic location and burgeoning economy provided the perfect base for Kirby's enterprises. He was actively involved in the city's civic and economic life, contributing to various initiatives that promoted Houston's development. Kirby's impact on Houston extended beyond his business ventures, as he became a prominent figure in the city's social and political circles.

Founding of Kirby Petroleum Company (1920–1930)

In addition to his success in the lumber industry, John Henry Kirby expanded into the oil business. In 1920, he founded Kirby Petroleum Company, capitalizing on the booming oil industry in Texas. His experience in land acquisition and resource management translated well into the oil business, and Kirby Petroleum became a significant player in the industry. The company’s success further solidified Kirby’s reputation as one of Texas’s leading businessmen. His ventures in both lumber and oil exemplify his entrepreneurial spirit and his ability to adapt to changing economic landscapes.

Civic Engagement and Philanthropy (1931–1940)

Throughout his career, Kirby was deeply committed to public service and philanthropy. He was a strong advocate for education and contributed to the establishment of several educational institutions in Texas. Kirby also supported various charitable causes, including hospitals, churches, and cultural organizations. His civic engagement reflected his belief in giving back to the community and helping to build a better society. Kirby's contributions to Houston and Texas left a lasting legacy, both in terms of economic development and civic improvement.

Legacy and Recognition (1940–Present)

John Henry Kirby passed away on November 9, 1940, but his legacy endures through the companies he founded and the impact he had on Texas’s economic and social development. The Kirby Lumber Company and Kirby Petroleum Company played pivotal roles in the growth of their respective industries, and Kirby’s influence can still be seen in Houston and across Texas. He is remembered as a visionary businessman who helped shape the modern economic landscape of the region. Various institutions and landmarks in Texas continue to honor his contributions.

Key Achievements:

• Founded the Kirby Lumber Company, one of the largest lumber enterprises in the U.S., and the Kirby Petroleum Company, a significant player in the oil industry.

• Played a key role in the economic development of Houston and Texas, contributing to the growth of the lumber and oil industries.

• Actively engaged in civic and philanthropic efforts, supporting education, healthcare, and cultural initiatives.

Summary:

John Henry Kirby’s journey from a self-taught lawyer to a leading businessman in the lumber and oil industries reflects his extraordinary vision and entrepreneurial spirit. His connection to Houston was central to his success, as the city served as the hub for his business ventures and civic contributions. Kirby’s legacy as a pioneer in Texas’s economic development continues to inspire, ensuring his place as one of the most influential figures in the state’s history.

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-Matthew Larsen

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