Matagorda’s marina turned into a living history lesson Saturday as the 30-foot replica ship La Petite Belle drew about 100 people down D-Dock for Texian Navy Day. The annual event, held every third Saturday in September, honors the Republic of Texas fleets that patrolled the Gulf and helped win independence in 1836. Organizers say the ship’s visit gave locals a rare hands-on look at maritime history dating back nearly two centuries. Guests learned how the early navy protected supply lines and shaped the young republic’s future.