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.