About the Galveston Historical Foundation
One of the Nation's Largest Local Preservation Organizations
The Galveston Historical Foundation, originally formed as the Galveston Historical Society in 1871 and reorganized in 1954, has grown into one of the nation's largest local preservation organizations. For over sixty years, GHF has been a nationally recognized leader in preserving historic and maritime properties while providing innovative solutions in building preservation, museum interpretation, and maritime programming. The foundation serves as steward and operator of many of Galveston's most significant historic properties dating from 1838 to 1907.
The foundation operates two major museums: the 1892 Bishop's Palace and the Texas Seaport Museum, home to ELISSA, a National Historic Landmark tall ship and one of the finest ship restorations in the world. Additional historic sites include the Michel Menard House (1838), Ashton Villa (1859), St. Joseph Catholic Church (1860), and Garten Verein (1880). These buildings serve as historic reference points and rental venues, while the foundation's Preservation and Conservation Services Department operates an architectural salvage warehouse and provides grants to help homeowners with repairs and restoration.
GHF's programs have national significance, including the development of Galveston's East End and Strand Historic Districts in the early 1970s, the Green Revival House that achieved Platinum LEED certification as one of the nation's first historic buildings to do so, and one of the largest coastal resiliency programs using historic sites in the nation. Their signature events, including Dickens on the Strand and the Historic Homes Tour, attract visitors from across Texas and beyond, playing a major role in heritage tourism on Galveston Island. Educational programs serve students through field trips, summer camps, demonstration classes on preservation techniques, and partnerships with local school districts.
Plan Your Visit
The Galveston Historical Foundation's administrative offices are located at 2002 Strand in the historic Strand District, open Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. GHF operates multiple historic sites throughout Galveston Island, including the 1892 Bishop's Palace and the Texas Seaport Museum. For information on tours, events like Dickens on the Strand and the Historic Homes Tour, or individual property hours and admission, visit www.galvestonhistory.org.
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