Josephine Gresham
Veterans of San Jacinto
One of the American Institute of Architects’ “100 most important buildings in America,” Bishop’s Palace was built in 1892 by Colonel Walter Gresham. The home was the scene of numerous events hosted by his wife, Josephine – an important social leader and officer of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas (DRT). A DRT reception she held in April 1896 honoring the veterans of the Battle of San Jacinto was particularly memorable, as elderly soldiers brought up to four generations of women to hear “harpers in the parlor” and a “university band on the lawn.”
The building served as a bishop’s residence before becoming a museum, now owned by the Galveston Historical Foundation. Tours are offered daily.
1892 Bishop’s Palace
- Hours: Daily, 10 a.m – 5 p.m.
- Admission: Adults: $12, Ages 6-18: $9, Ages 5 and under: free
- 1402 Broadway Avenue J, Galveston, TX
- 409-762-2475
- Visit Website
- National Register of Historic Places
