As Texas' earliest prominent city, literally scores of
fascinating historic structures were built by sea captains,
merchants, businessmen, and prominent officials. Among most notable
are:
Ashton Villa, showplace of Galveston Historical
Foundation in restored 1859 Italianate house-museum reflecting
opulence of era in carved moldings, elaborate mantel-work, and
lavish furnishings. Guided tours include the ornate Gold Room and
elegant family quarters upstairs. Open Mon. - Sat. 10 a.m. - 4
p.m.; Sun. noon - 4 p.m. 2328 Broadway. Admission.
Bishop's Palace, Galveston's most celebrated
landmark, is Texas' only structure on the list of nation's 100
outstanding buildings by American Institute of Architects. Built as
a private home by Col. Walter Gresham in 1886, purchased in 1923
for the bishop of the Galveston-Houston Diocese. Showplace
furnishings include a mantel that was first-prize winner at 1876
Philadelphia World's Fair, Venetian crystal chandelier, damask wall
coverings from London, and grand staircase of rosewood, satinwood,
and mahogany. Open daily noon - 4 p.m. during winter; summer hours
Mon. - Sat. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Sun., noon - 5 p.m. 1402 Broadway.
Admission.
Fort Crockett was a primary artillery defense
installation built 1897. Closed 1947, several buildings remain in
use by Galveston College, Texas A&M Univ. at Galveston, and
National Marine Fisheries Service. Massive coastal artillery
bunkers can still be seen, but most have been incorporated into the
foundation of the nearby hotel and conference center. Seawall Blvd.
between 45th and 53rd sts.
Grand 1894 Opera House, a performing arts hall
built in 1894. Multimillion-dollar restoration returned the ornate
structure to its original grandeur. Theatre has showcased such
theatrical icons as John Philip Sousa, Helen Hayes, and most
recently, Gregory Hines. The 73rd Legislature named it the "Texas
Official Opera House." Stage productions frequently scheduled; open
daily for self-guided tours. 2020 Post Office St.
Menard Home, Galveston's oldest home, the Michel
B. Menard Home, was built in 1838 by Galveston's founder in the
days of the Republic of Texas. It was host to the city's first
Mardi-Gras celebration. The mansion has been retored and furnished
with an outstanding collection of Federal and American Empire
antiques. Open weekends, but hours vary. Call ahead for information
at 409/762-3933. At 1605 33rd St. Admission Fee.
Moody Mansion and Museum, Historic home built,
circa 1892, is prime example of transitional Victorian
architecture. It is the former home and center of the business
empire of Texas entrepreneur W.L. Moody, Jr. from 1900 until his
death in 1954. With a steel frame, construction is of red brick,
Texas limestone and terra cotta tile. The interior includes stained
glass, custom-designed carved woods, tile work, fancy plaster work,
and stenciles in 42 rooms covering 28,000 square feet. Collections
include antiques, silver, photographs, and other works of art. Gift
shop. Self-guided tour. Open Mon.-Sat. 10am - 4pm; Sun 1pm -
4:30pm. Closed Mon. Jan.-Mar. At 2618 Broadway. Admission Fee.
The Strand, once the "Wall Street of the
Southwest," is one of the finest concentrations of 19th century
iron-front commercial buildings in the U.S. Lined with gaslights,
now restored and readapted. The Strand features art galleriees and
studios, specialty shops, restaurants, pubs, delicatessens,
historical exhibits, and even an old-fashioned candy factory within
a 36-block area. Often site of annual city festivals, especially
Dickens on The Strand each Dec. and Mardi Gras celebrations in
early spring. National Historic Landmark District is on Strand and
Mechanic sts. between 20th and 25th sts.