Unboxing History

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Unboxing History, hosts Christine Hopkins and Jodi Wright-Gidley, director of the Galveston County Museum, explore the historical significance of the Galveston Movement, an immigration plan that redirected Jewish immigrants from overcrowded Ellis Island to Galveston, Texas, between 1907 and 1914. The episode features personal anecdotes from sisters Shelly Kessler and Francine Beckman, whose grandparents emigrated from Austria-Hungary as part of the Galveston Movement. The sisters share touching family stories, old photographs, and even a wedding dress from 1911. The episode also highlights the critical role played by Rabbi Henry Cohen in welcoming and assisting these immigrants. Additionally, viewers learn about the various exhibits and artifacts on display at the Galveston County Museum, as well as the museum's efforts to continue enriching its collection through community contributions.#GalvestonMovement #Immigration #ImmigrationHistory #TexasSpecial 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 cares for a collection of 20,000 artifacts and archives. We also maintain the Historical Commission's library. If you are interested in research or donating an artifact related to Galveston County history, please call 409.766.2340.Follow us on FacebookFollow up on Instagram

Send us Fan MailUnboxing History: The Typewriter that Survived the 1900 Galveston StormIn this episode of 'Unboxing History,' hosts Christine Hopkins and Jodi Wright Gidley explore the intricate history of an 1891 Oliver typewriter used by RB Spangler, a compositor for the Galveston Daily News. The discussion delves into Spangler's pivotal role during the 1900 Galveston Storm and the importance of the local newspaper in chronicling such significant events. Special guest Leonard Woolsey, the publisher of the Galveston County Daily News, joins to provide further insight into the newspaper’s historical legacy and its role in documenting the hurricane and other critical events in Texas history. You can’t talk about Texas History without The Galveston Daily News. The episode highlights the enduring relevance of local journalism and the museum’s efforts to preserve and share these fascinating stories.Special 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 cares for a collection of 20,000 artifacts and archives. We also maintain the Historical Commission's library. If you are interested in research or donating an artifact related to Galveston County history, please call 409.766.2340.Follow us on FacebookFollow up on Instagram

Send us Fan MailJoin hosts Christine Hopkins and Jodi Wright-Gidley as they unbox the rich history of Galveston County’s schools in this special Back to School edition of Unboxing History! Discover unique artifacts ranging from an 1885 teaching certificate to a 1920s report card, and hear the stories behind them. Whether you’re a history buff or just curious about Galveston’s past, this episode offers a glimpse into some unique artifacts in the museum’s collection. Special 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 cares for a collection of 20,000 artifacts and archives. We also maintain the Historical Commission's library. If you are interested in research or donating an artifact related to Galveston County history, please call 409.766.2340.Follow us on FacebookFollow up on Instagram

Send us Fan MailGalveston's Pictorial Legacy of JuneteenthIn this episode of Unboxing History, hosts Christine Hopkins and Jodi Wright-Gidley explore a World War I poster commemorating the Emancipation Proclamation. They are joined by historian Sam Collins III, who discusses the historical significance of the poster, which links the Civil War to World War I, and highlights key figures like Abraham Lincoln, Paul Dunnbar, and Frederick Douglas. Collins also elaborates on the significance of General Order No. 3 and the Absolute Equality mural in Galveston. The mural, an outdoor classroom, and other initiatives such as the Nia Cultural Center aim to educate and inspire visitors about the history of Juneteenth in Galveston, the birthplace of this pivotal celebration of freedom.Special 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 cares for a collection of 20,000 artifacts and archives. We also maintain the Historical Commission's library. If you are interested in research or donating an artifact related to Galveston County history, please call 409.766.2340.Follow us on FacebookFollow up on Instagram

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Unboxing History, Christine Hopkins and Jodi Wright Gidley, executive director of the Galveston County Museum, delve into fascinating artifacts from Galveston County's rich history. They uncover a Colombian mammoth bone and discuss the area's prehistoric fossils, explore the origins of the town of Algoa, and highlight the significance of early settlers bringing trees and crops to the region. Additionally, quirky historical facts are shared, such as deer swimming across Galveston Bay. The episode also promotes the newly released book 'Galveston County, Texas, A Narrative and Pictorial History,' offering a comprehensive view of the county’s development and interconnected communities.Special 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 cares for a collection of 20,000 artifacts and archives. We also maintain the Historical Commission's library. If you are interested in research or donating an artifact related to Galveston County history, please call 409.766.2340.Follow us on FacebookFollow up on Instagram

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Unboxing History, hosts Christine and Jodi explore a colorful artifact from the Galveston County Museum's collection – a crown from the 1961 Treasure Ball Royal Court. They delve into the rich history of Mardi Gras celebrations in Galveston, detailing key events and traditions that have shaped the festivities over the years. The discussion covers the origins of Mardi Gras in Galveston, the prominent krewes, and the significance of the Treasure Ball. Listeners are also introduced to the museum's permanent Mardi Gras exhibit, which features a vast collection of capes, trains, crowns, and more, highlighting the community's enduring connection to this vibrant tradition.Special thanks to the Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce. Special 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 cares for a collection of 20,000 artifacts and archives. We also maintain the Historical Commission's library. If you are interested in research or donating an artifact related to Galveston County history, please call 409.766.2340.Follow us on FacebookFollow up on Instagram

Send us Fan MailCould the oldest Christmas tree in the United States be in Galveston? In this special holiday episode of Unboxing History, Christine Hopkins and Jodi Wright-Gidley, hosts of the Unboxing History Podcast, presented by the Galveston County Museum, discuss a 114-year-old artificial Christmas tree, potentially the oldest in Texas or the country. The tree, donated by Mr. Lynn Ringh, features ornaments with rich histories, including a straw hat from Tampico, Mexico, and a World War II-era cardboard and foil ornament. Mr. Ringh shares heartfelt stories about his family's traditions, the Great Depression's impact, and why the tree holds significant sentimental value. The episode highlights the importance of preserving and donating family heirlooms to museums to keep history alive.Special 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 cares for a collection of 20,000 artifacts and archives. We also maintain the Historical Commission's library. If you are interested in research or donating an artifact related to Galveston County history, please call 409.766.2340.Follow us on FacebookFollow up on Instagram

Send us Fan MailDid you know Camp Wallace once served as a training facility for soldiers, housed POWs, and even served as a morgue? In this episode of Unboxing History, hosts Christine Hopkins and Jodi Wright-Gidley from the Galveston County Museum, delve into the history of Camp Wallace, a World War II military camp located in what is now Jack Brooks Park in Galveston County. They examine artifacts related to the camp, including a handkerchief, a pillowcase, a postcard, and a separation center brochure. Guest speaker Shana Rawls, who wrote a book on Camp Wallace, shares detailed insights about the camp's functions, its layout, and its significance during and after the war. The episode also highlights the Galveston County Museum's efforts to preserve and educate the public about the area's rich military history, inviting listeners to visit the museum and explore the remnants of Camp Wallace.Special 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 cares for a collection of 20,000 artifacts and archives. We also maintain the Historical Commission's library. If you are interested in research or donating an artifact related to Galveston County history, please call 409.766.2340.Follow us on FacebookFollow up on Instagram

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Unboxing History, hosts Christine Hopkins and Jodi Wright-Gidley explore intriguing artifacts from the Tremont Hotel's past, including an 1879 menu and postcards. Special guest Kathleen Maca, a historian who authored a book on the Tremont Hotel, shares fascinating insights into the hotel's rich history, its notable guests, and its connection to Galveston's historical events like the Civil War and the 1900 Storm. Discover the transformation of the Tremont Hotel over the years and learn about the Galveston County Museum's crucial role in preserving this history.Special 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 cares for a collection of 20,000 artifacts and archives. We also maintain the Historical Commission's library. If you are interested in research or donating an artifact related to Galveston County history, please call 409.766.2340.Follow us on FacebookFollow up on Instagram

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Unboxing History, co-hosts Christine Hopkins and Jodi Wright-Gidley unbox a special artifact from the Galveston County Museum: a portrait of the pioneering meteorologist Dr. John Freeman. They discuss Dr. Freeman's contributions to meteorology, including his work with the U.S. Weather Bureau and the founding of the Weather Research Center. Special guest Dr. Hal Needham, also known as Hurricane Hal, provides expert insights into the historical weather instruments on exhibit and compares past and present meteorological practices. The episode explores the history of weather forecasting, the impact of historical storms like the 1900 Galveston Hurricane, and the importance of learning from history to prepare for future weather events. The museum features a recreated 1940s weather forecasting office and a variety of meteorological tools, underscoring the evolution of weather science.Special 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 cares for a collection of 20,000 artifacts and archives. We also maintain the Historical Commission's library. If you are interested in research or donating an artifact related to Galveston County history, please call 409.766.2340.Follow us on FacebookFollow up on Instagram

Send us Fan MailUnboxing History: The Inquest Record of the 1900 Storm-In this episode of Unboxing History, co-host Christine Hopkins and Jody Wright-Gidley, director of the Galveston County Museum, delve into the story behind an inquest record book from the Bolivar Peninsula post-1900 Storm. They discuss the history and significance of the ledger, which contains detailed descriptions of victims to aid identification after the devastating hurricane. The episode also touches on the broader context of the 1900 Storm, including Galveston's importance as a port, the impact on the community, and the efforts made for rebuilding. Listeners are invited to explore this part of the museum's exhibit, featuring the ledger, related personal artifacts, and more historical insights.Special 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 cares for a collection of 20,000 artifacts and archives. We also maintain the Historical Commission's library. If you are interested in research or donating an artifact related to Galveston County history, please call 409.766.2340.Follow us on FacebookFollow up on Instagram

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Unboxing History, Christine Hopkins and museum staffer Shelby Rodwell unbox a woman's bathing suit from 1890-1910 from the Galveston County Museum collection. This swimsuit is featured in a new exhibit at the Museum created by Rodwell. The podcast highlights beach-related artifacts in the exhibit and the history of segregated beaches in Galveston. Additionally, they talk about historic bathhouses, Electric Park, and beach events like the Bathing Girl Revue. The episode concludes with an invitation to visit the museum and explore its exhibits and resources. Unboxing History Podcast is presented by the Galveston County Museum. Theme Music: 🎼G COUNTY JAZZ, Shawn Schoellkopf ©️2024Special 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 cares for a collection of 20,000 artifacts and archives. We also maintain the Historical Commission's library. If you are interested in research or donating an artifact related to Galveston County history, please call 409.766.2340.Follow us on FacebookFollow up on Instagram

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Unboxing History, hosts Christine Hopkins and Jodi Wright-Gidley share a rare fire bucket from the early 1900s held in the Galveston County Museum's collection. They are joined by James Anderson, author of 'Galveston Burning: A History of the Fire Department and Major Conflagrations,' to discuss significant fires that reshaped Galveston, including the devastating 1885 fire. Anderson provides fascinating insights into early firefighting techniques, fire station history, and the importance of fire maps from the Sanborn Fire Insurance Company. The discussion highlights historic buildings lost to fire and the evolution of fire safety measures. The episode concludes with information about the museum's resources for historical research and visiting details.Theme Music: 🎼G COUNTY JAZZ, Shawn Schoellkopf ©️2024Chapters and Timestamps00:00 Introduction to Unboxing History00:28 This Month's Artifact: The Fire Bucket02:06 Interview with James Anderson: Author of Galveston Burning03:07 Firefighting Measures and Historical Fire Maps07:52 Historic Fires and Their Impact on Galveston13:57 Notable Buildings Lost to Fires17:40 The Texas City Explosion of 194718:36 The Role and Decline of Fire Boats19:32 Where to Find James Anderson's Book21:50 Resources at the Galveston County Museum23:14 Visiting the Galveston County Museum23:58 Conclusion Special 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 cares for a collection of 20,000 artifacts and archives. We also maintain the Historical Commission's library. If you are interested in research or donating an artifact related to Galveston County history, please call 409.766.2340.Follow us on FacebookFollow up on Instagram

Send us Fan MailUnveiling the Maceos: From Immigrants to Galveston's Power Duo - Featuring Kimber Fountain, Author of "The Maceos and the Free State of Galveston, An Authorized History"This episode of 'Unboxing History' delves into the intriguing history Galveston County, Texas, through the lens of Sam and Rose Maceo, who played a pivotal role in transforming the city in the early to mid-20th century. Hosted by Christine Hopkins and Jodi Wright Gidley, the podcast unveils artifacts from the Galveston County Museum's collection, including a sealed deck of cards from the renowned Balinese Room and memorabilia from the Turf Athletic Club. Author  Kimber Fountain shares the remarkable journey of the Maceo brothers from Sicilian immigrants to influential entrepreneurs in Galveston, emphasizing their rum running during Prohibition, and their lasting impact on the city's development and culture. Their legacy shaped Galveston's identity as a premium resort destination, and they created a model that influenced modern-day Las Vegas.Special 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 cares for a collection of 20,000 artifacts and archives. We also maintain the Historical Commission's library. If you are interested in research or donating an artifact related to Galveston County history, please call 409.766.2340.Follow us on FacebookFollow up on Instagram

Send us Fan MailUnearthing Galveston's Past: The 1900 Storm Through Thomas Edison's LensThis episode of 'Unboxing History' features Christine Hopkins and Jodi Wright Gidley, who introduce two unique films. One film was captured after the 1900 Storm by Thomas Edison’s crew, and another reel is from the early 1950s. Guest J.R. Shaw, host of Galveston Unscripted, shares insights into Thomas Edison's pioneering work in film, specifically Edison's team's efforts to document the devastation of Galveston Island shortly after the storm. The discussion also covers the technological innovations of the time, the challenges faced by Edison's crew in capturing the footage, and the cultural impact of sharing such imagery with the world. Additionally, the episode mentions another cinematic gem -- a 1950s film showcased at the Martini Movie Theater, providing a nostalgic glimpse of Galveston's community, architecture, and fashion. The episode emphasizes the importance of preserving and exploring historical footage to understand past events' impact on communities and cultural shifts Unboxing History is a podcast presented by the Galveston County Museum. Special 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 cares for a collection of 20,000 artifacts and archives. We also maintain the Historical Commission's library. If you are interested in research or donating an artifact related to Galveston County history, please call 409.766.2340.Follow us on FacebookFollow up on Instagram

Send us Fan MailThis episode of Unboxing History provides a detailed discussion about the history of a tamale cart once belonging to Mr. Serrato, known as Dan the Tamale Man, in Galveston. It includes interviews with a local Texas Star Bakery owner and tamale expert, Cris Chapa, and Chef Mary Bass of La Cocina Market, discussing the process of making tamales and the influence of different cultures on Galveston's food. The episode also highlights the evolution of food convenience and the impact of immigration on the island's diverse culinary scene. The tamale cart is now part of the Galveston County Museum's collection.Special 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 cares for a collection of 20,000 artifacts and archives. We also maintain the Historical Commission's library. If you are interested in research or donating an artifact related to Galveston County history, please call 409.766.2340.Follow us on FacebookFollow up on Instagram

Send us Fan MailUnboxing History Episode 2: From Storefronts to Memories: The Vanishing World of Corner Stores is a conversation between Christine Hopkins, Jodi Wright-Gidley, and Alfio Tropea. They discuss the history and significance of a unique artifact, a bicycle that was used for grocery store deliveries in the 1950s. The bicycle has been through various events, including being displayed at the Smithsonian and surviving Hurricane Ike. The podcast also touches on the history of corner stores and their decline over the years. The restored bicycle is currently on exhibit at the Galveston County Museum. More on the museum at www.galvestoncountyhistory.orgSpecial 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 cares for a collection of 20,000 artifacts and archives. We also maintain the Historical Commission's library. If you are interested in research or donating an artifact related to Galveston County history, please call 409.766.2340.Follow us on FacebookFollow up on Instagram

Send us Fan MailExplore the past with Unboxing History as we take you on a journey into the captivating collection of the Galveston County Museum. Uncover the hidden stories behind artifacts, delve into the intricacies of local history, and discover the treasures that connect us to bygone eras. Join us for a unique and insightful exploration of our heritage, one unboxing at a time.The Galveston County Museum is located on Galveston Island in Texas. The museum is open Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 10 am to 4 pm and is available for private tours on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The Museum is in the Galveston County Courthouse, 722 Moody (21st Street), Galveston, TX 77550. The Museum accepts artifacts relating to the region from all over the world. Special 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 cares for a collection of 20,000 artifacts and archives. We also maintain the Historical Commission's library. If you are interested in research or donating an artifact related to Galveston County history, please call 409.766.2340.Follow us on FacebookFollow up on Instagram

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 cares for a collection of 20,000 artifacts and archives. We also maintain the Historical Commission's library. If you are interested in research or donating an artifact related to Galveston County history, please call 409.766.2340.Follow us on FacebookFollow up on Instagram