Free State of Galveston but authorities were never able to make the charges stick, and indeed some sources claim that they were genuinely false. Like much of the country, and particularly Texas, Galveston boomed in the 1920s. But even the Great Depression did not stop Galveston's run of prosperity. Despite the financial ruin that faced much of the country during the Depression, not a single Galveston bank failed and unemployment was almost unheard of. Key business sectors in Galveston during the "Free State" era were casinos and prostitution, in addition to many legitimate businesses. During much of the period, the vice industries provided the
Galveston Bay snapper. In 2007, the Port of Galveston produced of seafood with a value of $40.1 million. Galveston Bay supports a significant recreation and tourism industry, especially as a result of its proximity to major population centers. Over 40% of Greater Houston residents participate annually in hiking and swimming along the bay, while 20% go fishing and 15% go boating. The five counties surrounding the bay are home to 88,000 registered pleasure crafts. Fishing expenditures (such as the purchase of fishing bait or lodging) along Galveston Bay and Sabine Lake generate approximately $650 million annually. The recreational fishing industry supports over