Message from the President of GHF, 2008-2009

Tom Schwenk, GHF President, 2008-2009

According to Soren Kierkegaard, “Life can only be understood backwards; but it must be lived forwards.” Galveston Historical Foundation continues to be a driving force in the development and enrichment of the City of Galveston. The foundation is a major voice of preservation advocacy both locally and throughout the state. GHF's many departments, programs, events, and volunteers are all dedicated to its mission: preserving and revitalizing the architectural, cultural, and maritime heritage of Galveston Island for the education and enrichment of all.

We read and hear a lot these days about sustainability and the environment. The three R’s of sustainability are Reduce, Reuse and Recycle. Our Code Compliance and Paint Pals programs provide a way for those in need to stay in their homes and neighborhoods contributing to the stability of the area. Our real estate and preservation committee continues to identify, save and if necessary, move historically significant houses throughout the island. Two recent projects that illustrate our commitment to sustainability include the restoration of our very special Samuel May Williams Home. Recently closed as a house museum, it will soon become a private home again – the same purpose as when it was built over 169 years ago. This unique arrangement in which GHF retains ownership but leases the house to private individuals will allow the SMW home to be open certain times throughout the year, so please plan to visit this familiar family member in the upcoming year.

Our possession of the historic Rosewood Cemetery included Eagle Scout Sean Moran’s project that has exposed a new generation to preservation. Who would have realized what trendsetters we are at GHF!

GHF brings business to the area. We are at the forefront of the heritage tourism wave. Heritage tourists stay longer (on average 1.3 days) and spend more ($175.00 per trip) than average tourists.

This month GHF launched its newest venture, with the purchase of Galveston Island Tours, LLC. This tour company is a for-profit subsidiary of GHF with a mission of bringing tour destination services and tourist planning in Galveston. Its goals are right in line with the foundation’s mission of providing services that will expand awareness of the island’s heritage. On our plate for 2008 and 2009 are the Labor Day opening of the Bishop’s Palace Visitor Center and Gift Shop located in the former Newman Center along with the evaluation of and plan to increase the offerings at all of our retail spaces.

Additionally, our programs and events are estimated to bring over 150,000 visitors to our island each year. The publicity generated by these events, including Dickens on the Stran, and the Annual Galveston Historic Homes Tour produce millions of dollars in advertising for Galveston Island. With the management and stewardship of our properties and interests including such treasures as the Bishop Palace and the Elissa, the Official Tall Ship of Texas, tourism will continue to increase

The upcoming year promises to be one of challenges, opportunities and achievements.

I am honored to follow in the footsteps of so many committed leaders, volunteers and staff whose dedication and tireless efforts have contributed to the success of not only the foundation but to the City of Galveston. I have had wonderful mentors in the past two presidents, Bets Anderson and Raymond Lewis. Continuing the course they set shall be smooth sailing. I will continue GHF’s practice of reaching out to other organizations and partnering with them. My goals include marketing GHF to the local and county business community and public. I look to increase interest among Galveston county residents, particularly school age children and young adults. I would like to assist GHF in becoming an even greener organization and develop a recycling model for GHF as well as for the other non profits in town and throughout our community. The opportunities to become involved are limitless, either as an attendee at one of our many events, as a visitor to one of our historic properties, as a member, or as a member and committed volunteer. I invite everyone to find the door at GHF. You will discover what a wonderful organization it is.