At one time Galveston was the largest city in Texas. Wealthy merchants from around the country flocked to the island to bathe in it's overwhelming success. With southern wealth comes southern living, and mansion upon mansion was built to prove one's fortune.
Each house in unique, however a mix of Spanish, French, and German architecture is obvious when driving up and down Broadway today. Some of these impressive houses were either lost in the 1900 hurricane or severely damaged during Hurricane Ike in 2008 (a hurricane who's damage dominated the beginning of my senior year at high school). However, some houses faired more than others, Bishops' Palace being one of the lucky ones.
Bishop's Palace, originally known as Gresham's Castle, was built in 1892 by the Virginian couple Walter and Josephine Gresham. Walter Gresham, a civil war veteran, founded the Gulf, Colorado, and Santa Fe Railroad before becoming a successful Texan politician. By 1923 however, the house had been purchased by the Galveston Catholic Diocese. The bishop called this mansion his home until it was opened to the public in 1963.
As I have mentioned before, Galveston was one of my favorite day-cation places growing up in the Houston area. Just a short 45 minute drive away lies this beautiful island/city that is frozen in the the early late 19th and early 20th century. If you want to read more on the city's unique history, check out my previous post, An Hour in Galveston, Texas.
Happy Monday!
xoxo
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