Introduction to Houston’s Mottos
Houston is a city that has struggled to find an official motto that sticks. Over the years, the city has tried various catchphrases to capture its essence, but none have been able to gain widespread acceptance.
A Look at Past Mottos
In the early twentieth century, Houston was known as the place "where 17 railroads meet the sea." This motto highlighted the city’s importance as a transportation hub. Later, in the 1980s, the city tried to rebrand itself with the slogan "Houston Proud" to coincide with its sesquicentennial celebration. However, this motto failed to gain traction. Another attempt was made with the slogan "Houston’s Hot," but it was met with criticism and is now largely forgotten.
Recent Attempts at a Motto
In 2014, the city tried again with the motto "The City with No Limits." Unfortunately, this slogan also failed to stick. Despite these efforts, Houston remains a city without an official motto.
Proposed Mottos
Houstorian and columnist James Glassman has proposed several new mottos that aim to capture the city’s spirit. These mottos are designed to be accurate and reflective of the city’s character, but may not necessarily be embraced by local tourism professionals. Some of these proposed mottos include:
- A motto that highlights the city’s diversity and cultural richness
- A motto that emphasizes the city’s thriving arts and culture scene
- A motto that showcases the city’s reputation as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship
Conclusion
Houston’s search for an official motto continues. While past attempts have been unsuccessful, it is possible that a new motto will emerge that accurately captures the city’s essence and resonates with its residents. By considering the city’s unique character and strengths, it may be possible to find a motto that sticks and becomes a source of pride for the city. Ultimately, the right motto could help to promote the city and attract visitors, making it an important part of Houston’s identity.
