Regal Revelry: The Royal Connection of Mardi Gras Costumes

Send us Fan MailUnboxing History, Episode 1 is a conversation between Christine Hopkins, a Galveston author and local expert, and Jodi Wright-Gidley, director of the Galveston County Museum. As part of this series, they’ll unbox the treasures in the collection of the museum. In this episode, they discuss the history and significance of Mardi Gras and Treasure Ball in Galveston, focusing on the use of ermine fur in the costumes currently featured in the exhibit. They also discuss the history of Mardi Gras in Galveston and invite listeners to visit the Galveston County Museum.Show Notes:Unboxing History: Regal Revelry: The Royal Connection of Mardi Gras Costumes  In the first episode of 'Unboxing History,' hosts Christine Hopkins and Jodi Wright-Gidley explore connections between European royalty, ermine fur, and Galveston's Mardi Gras. The show delves into the history and symbolism of the ermine fur, its ties to royalty, and its presence in Mardi Gras costumes despite modern ethical shifts against real fur use. The hosts also discuss Mardi Gras's beginnings in 600 AD, its relevance in Galveston, Treasure Ball, and how it underwent a revival in 1985. Listeners are invited to visit the Galveston County Museum's Mardi Gras exhibit, featuring artifacts and costumes dating back to 1856.00:00 Introduction to Unboxing History00:31 Unveiling the Historic Treasure00:57 The History and Significance of Ermine01:43 Ermine and Mardi Gras Connection02:21 The Tradition of Mardi Gras in Galveston03:28 The Role of Mardi Gras in Community Fundraising03:56 Revival of Mardi Gras in Galveston04:05 Exploring the Mardi Gras Exhibit at the Galveston County Museum05:10 How to Get Involved with the Galveston County Museum05:37 Donating Mardi Gras Items to the Museum06:18 Conclusion: The Growth of Mardi Gras Since Its RevivalSpecial thanks to the Galveston Chamber of Commerce for their ongoing support and Shawn Schoellkopf for creating and performing the theme music.Thank you for listening to Unboxing History, presented by the Galveston County Museum.  For more information on the Museum, visit our website.History of the Galveston County MuseumThe Galveston County Museum was formed in 1976. It was located on Market Street for many years. After Hurricane Ike damaged the HVAC and electrical systems in 2008, the unharmed artifacts were moved. Now, the museum is located in the Galveston County courthouse building at 722 Moody/21st Street in Galveston.​Galveston County Museum is a joint project of the Galveston County Commissioners Court and Galveston County History, Inc. The museum is open for FREE on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, 10:00 to 4:00. Private tours and our fun Padlock Mystery Game can be scheduled on Tuesdays and Thursdays by calling 409.766.2340. The museum is located inside the Galveston County courthouse at 722 Moody/21st Street, Galveston, Texas.Follow us on FacebookFollow up on Instagram