Galveston's Gilded Age Tour

1402 Broadway Avenue J,Galveston TX 77550

20 March, 2022

Description

TAKE A TOUR OF THE GILDED AGE AT THE 1892 BISHOP'S PALACE Galveston led the way when it came to municipal innovations as the state’s first city with electricity, gas, and streetlights. And, with its busy port, bustling streetcars, and a multitude of railway lines, Galveston became an increasingly popular resort destination for visitors from all over the country. Walter and Josephine Gresham were the epitome of Galveston’s Upper Class at the time and this home, originally called the Gresham House, reflects that period of prosperity. Designed by the most skilled architect and built by the finest artisans using the very best materials available, it embodies the city’s own gilded age. As you explore Bishop’s Palace, today, you will see and experience the history of Galveston in every stone, every inch of hand-carved wood, and piece of intricate design work present. Champagne will be provided at the start of your tour. Please arrive 15-minutes before the start time for check-in. Photos are allowed and encouraged and there are no refunds. ABOUT THE 1892 BISHOP'S PALACE | Bishop’s Palace, also known as the Walter and Josephine Gresham House, is one of the island’s best known and most popular tourist attractions. Bishop’s Palace is recognized as one of the nation’s most important late 19th century Victorian residences. Nicholas Clayton, Texas’ most accomplished architect of the period, designed the house for the Gresham family. In 1921, Galvestonians raised money to buy the house for the Galveston-Houston Archdiocese to make it the home of Bishop Byrne. ABOUT GALVESTON HISTORICAL FOUNDATION | GHF was formed as the Galveston Historical Society in 1871 and merged with a new organization formed in 1954 as a non-profit entity devoted to historic preservation and history in Galveston County. Over the last sixty years, GHF has expanded its mission to encompass community redevelopment, historic preservation advocacy, maritime preservation, coastal resiliency, and stewardship of historic properties. GHF embraces a broader vision of history and architecture that encompasses advancements in environmental and natural sciences and their intersection with historic buildings and coastal life and conceives of history as an engaging story of individual lives and experiences on Galveston Island from the 19th century to the present day. Galveston Historical Foundation (GHF) was formed as the Galveston Historical Society in 1871 and reincorporated in 1954 as a non-profit organization devoted to historic preservation and history in Galveston County. Over the last 60 years, GHF has expanded its mission to encompass community redevelopment, historic preservation advocacy, maritime preservation, coastal resiliency and stewardship of historic properties. GHF embraces a broader vision of history and architecture that encompasses advancements in environmental and natural sciences and their intersection with historic buildings and coastal life, and conceives of history as an engaging story of individual lives and experiences on Galveston Island from the 19th century to the present day.