The trend reversed when tourists and new businesses started revitalizing the old seaport, locally known as the Old Port.
Noted for its antique architecture, Thomaston is an old seaport popular with tourists.
Sailing ships were still built in the shipyards of the old seaport, but not in the same numbers as before.
But if all the clamorous tourism gets to you over there, head a few blocks north for a taste of the old seaport.
The oldest seaport in Texas is getting a boost from a customer that has returned after a 40-year absence - Cuba.
Should he detour down to the second level of the sea bottom and climb again when he reached the old seaport?
Still, if Captain Hook's fails, there will be only two solely maritime shops left at the old seaport.
A battle is raging for the soul of this old seaport gone chic.
Traveling the few blocks from the old seaport to the 19th-century resort of Bellevue Avenue and the Atlantic side, the visitor must change focus.
But now the old seaport is attracting residents and investment.