The history of Kingsville is closely intertwined with the city's main creek, the Santa Gertrudis. The first recorded inhabitants of the area were the Coahuiltecan Malaquites, surviving on seafood from nearby Baffin Bay, with settlements along the Santa Getrudis and San Fernando creeks, and the Cayo del Grullo branch of Baffin Bay. Large herds of mustangs roamed the south Texas plains, often drinking from the waters of spring fed creeks in and around present-day Kingsville. In 1803, Jose Lorenzo de la Garza established a settlement along the Santa Gertrudis. In 1846, General Zachary Taylor and his army camped along the banks of the Santa Gertrudis prior to their campaign into Mexico.

In 1899, after many failed attempts, King ranch manager Robert J. Kleberg, Jr., was finally able to tap into an underground lake of water.The discovery of readily accessible water paved the way for a future settlement next to the ranch.

Executive Inn Kingsville, Kingsville TX

A short drive from Highway 77, this unpretentious hotel is 4 miles from Naval Air Station, Kingsville. Minifridges and microwaves are offered in each room, plus free WiFi and TVs with premium cable channels. Complimentary amenities include continental breakfast served each day, an area shuttle and large-vehicle parking.