Introduction to Sugar Land, Texas
Sugar Land, Texas, in Fort Bend county, is 19 miles SW of Houston, Texas. Sugar Land is situated along the Gulf Coast and is part of the Greater Houston area. The Brazos River and Oyster Creek flow through the city. It's the center of economic activity for the county and home to the headquarters of Imperial Sugar and Western Airways as well as a prominent manufacturing center for Nalco Chemical Company. Numerous energy, semiconductor, technical services, electronics, communications, engineering and software companies are located in the municipality. The affluent city contains a large number of master-planned communities. The climate is characterized as humid subtropical.
Sugar Land History
The Karankawa and the Atakapa Indian tribes were the original inhabitants. In 1838 a plantation in the area stimulated the economy by growing crops such as cotton, corn and sugarcane. Benjamin Terry is recognized as the person who gave the town its name. In 1879 a large sugar refining plant was the major factor for the economy.
From 1910 until 1959 Sugar Land was a company town due to the importance of the Imperial Sugar Company and all the housing, healthcare and businesses they provided for the workers and their families. During the 1980's numerous large corporations opened offices and facilities in Sugar Land. A large number of residents had the opportunity to work near their homes.
Sugar Land Attractions
- Sugar Land Town Square is a primary entertainment destination and features restaurants, cafes and is popular for shopping
- Oyster Creek Park
- First Colony Mall
- Teenstock showcases popular music performers
- Sugar Land Ice & Sports Center
- The Lakeview Auditorium, situated at Lakeview Elementary school is regarded as the oldest public building in the area. The impressive structure is a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark.
Sugar Land Activities
Residents enjoy year-round golfing and saltwater and freshwater fishing. The Starlight Campgrounds, featuring the Brazos Bend and the George Ranch is a popular place to visit on weekends. The Anthills/Terry Hershey Park offers some of the best trails in the state.
Sugar Land Higher Education
Sugar Land is home to the University of Houston at Sugar Land and the Wharton County Junior College.
