GILCHRIST, TEXAS

History in a Pecan Shell

The community was named for Gibb Gilchrist, who was responsible for repairing the railroad (Point Bolivar to High Island) that was destroyed in a 1915 hurricane.

Prior to the renaming, it had been known as Rollover.

The name is still in use however, for Rollover Pass – the inlet that bisects the penninsula. The flow of water provides excellent fishing opportunities and the local economy exists for that reason.

Gilchrist received a post office late (1950) and the pass wasn’t open until 1955 when it was dredged by the Texas Department of Parks and Wildlife.

The community reports a year round population of just under 800, swelling during summer months.

1907 Galveston County Postal map showing Rollover (Gilchrist before name change)
(Below "ON" in "GALVESTON")
Courtesy Texas General Land Office

1920 Galveston County map showing Gilchrist
Courtesy Texas General Land Office

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