PONCE, the largest and most important city on the southern coast of Porto Rico and the second city in size and importance on the island. The population in 1930 was 53,43o. The population of the municipal district in 1930 was Although the name of the city appears in public documents since early in the history of Spanish colonization, it was not until 1836 that it became an independent municipality. After that its growth increased and its importance was greatly magnified. Ponce was one of the first places at which the American forces landed in Porto Rico during the Spanish-American War. They were most cordially and enthusiastically welcomed by the citizens. They took possession of the city, after having entered into an agree ment with the Spanish forces who withdrew into the interior of the island.
Ponce has an agreeable climate, the temperature being mod erated by the constant breezes prevailing during the greater part of the year. Industrially and commercially it is one of the fore most cities of the island. It is the principal shipping port on the Caribbean sea, and has an increasing commerce with the southern islands and the northern countries of South America. This im
portance has been recognized by the Government at Washington, and extensive improvements of the harbour are now under way under the direction of the U.S. service.
Ponce is a well managed city and its streets, plazas, parks and recreation grounds are well kept and attractive. Its public build ings and private residences are well built, and the beautiful setting among the tropical foliage and blossoms excite admiration.
The city is on the line of the American railroad, and is the terminus of important highways, north, east and west. There are several banks and some important commercial and industrial firms, producing cigars and cigarettes, bay rum, mineral waters, hats, shoes, clothing, laces, embroidery, cut diamonds, foundry and iron products, ice, brick, chocolate, soap and candy. The city has water-works, electric light and power, telegraph, telephone and cable service. It has two daily newspapers and several weekly publications. (H. M. T.)