Galveston Historical Foundation To Host Lecture On Civil War Blockade Runners Sunday, July 15

As part of its ongoing Civil War summer lecture series, Galveston Historical Foundation will feature a presentation by Andrew Hall, Marine Archaeological Steward for the Texas Historical Commission on “Patriots for Profit- Blockade Runners of the Confederacy”. The lecture will be held at the Menard Campus at 3302 Avenue O on Sunday, July 15th at 2 p.m. and will focus on blockade runners slipping in and out of Texas ports during the war. The price for the lecture is $12 for non-members and $10 for GHF members. Reservations are recommended and can be made by calling (409) 765-3409.

“The discovery of the paddle steamer Denbigh in 1997 and of a wreck believed to be the famous Will o' the Wisp in the aftermath of Hurricane Ike, opens the door to a long-overlooked story of patriotism, avarice and daring during those last desperate months of the conflict.” says speaker Andrew Hall.

In addition to the summer lecture series, the historic Menard House will be open for tours the first Saturday in July and August. Built in 1838 by John and Augustus Allen for the founder of Galveston, Michel Branamour Menard, it is the oldest surviving residential dwelling in Galveston and the only structure to be owned by the founders of both Galveston and Houston. Tours will be available 12 p.m- 4 p.m. July 7 and August 4. Admission is $7 per person.

For more information on the Menard Summer Lecture Series at Menard Hall or public tours of the 1838 Menard House, call Jami Durham at (409)765-3409 or e mail Jami.Durham@galvestonhistory.org.