From humbled beginnings, the city of Houston was born from the ashes of Texas' new found independence from Mexico. In 1836, Augustus C. and John K. Allen established Houston on Buffalo Bayou. Driven by the railroad and changed forever by the discovery of oil in 1901, the city quickly gained a reputation for rugged individualism and an enduring entrepreneurial spirit. Today, Houston is home to one of the world's largest ports, the Johnson Space Center, and a myriad of Fortune 500 companies. Houston is a city of contrasts where traditions of the past are bridged by the forefront of technology. From the world's largest rodeo to the world's largest medical complex, Houston is a unique global city and cultural melting pot like no other. Houston, Texas: A Photographic Portrait takes you on a journey of exploration through the heart of Houston with extraordinary imagery and narrative. Photographer Eric Pohl reveals unique perspectives on Houston's grandeur, historic architecture, entertainment venues, landmarks, and cultural celebrations in the shadow of Houston's soaring skyline.