First major port in Texas, was commercial link of Texas Republic with rest of world; for years was state's largest city. Modern port handles ships from throughout world. Unique in operation, it is nation's only port where all facilities, from railroad switching to crating and labeling of individual items, are coordinated under one management. So successful is operation that Galveston is only major port facility in United States not supported by public funds. Visitors will be fascinated by Fisherman's Wharf area along Ave. A between 17th and 23rd Sts. Fish markets, seafood restaurants, and charter/group boat docks.