January 22, 2003

Galveston Historical Foundation
  by Jim Guidry

Galveston Historical Foundation Executive Director Marsh Davis told the Galveston Rotary Club that the GHF "fleet" is expanding.

"We are in the process of acquiring one of the few remaining historic shrimp boats," Davis reported.  The new vessel will join the Seagull II tour boat and tall ship Elissa at the Texas Seaport Museum.  Elissa will be back in operation at Pier 21 following a period in dry dock in Houston.

Davis said the annual Dickens on the Strand festival is a major economic event in Galveston.  "Conservatively, well over $5 million in local commerce, just on the island alone, and it swells hotel occupancy by three-fold, at the same time producing a quality, family-oriented event."

He said that the annual Historic Homes Tour in May will feature some "really stunning properties."

The annual Sacred Places Tour is from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday.

Davis stressed that the special events support GHF's mission of historic preservation.

Gulf Coast E-news is a publication of Guidry News Service, with offices at 926 Broadway in Galveston and 2500 South Shore Boulevard, Suite C Marina in Clear Lake.  Call (409) 763-NEWS (6397) or (281) 334-NEWS (6397) in the Clear Lake area.  For additional information, or to order a free, one-week complimentary subscription to Gulf Coast E-news, email News@guidrynews.com.