In commemoration of the deadliest natural disaster in U.S. history, Galveston Historical Foundation is launching a powerful lineup of public events and educational programs to mark the 125th anniversary of the 1900 hurricane that forever altered the island's landscape and identity. On September 8, 1900, a powerful hurricane struck Galveston Island with winds estimated over 140 mph and a storm surge that engulfed the city, killing more than 6,000 residents. This tragedy, while devastating, also spurred one of the most significant civic recovery efforts in U.S. history. To honor this legacy, the Galveston Historical Foundation (GHF) is hosting a slate of public events that reflect on the city's past while celebrating its enduring spirit.
The commemorative weekend kicks off Saturday, September 6, with the Market Street Social at the historic 1904 GH&H Depot where attendees can enjoy live music, local food and drink vendors, historical displays, oral history recordings, and a sneak preview of the 1900 Storm Experience. Admission is free, offering the public a chance to gather in community and reflection.
Galveston's story is one of resilience,
says Dwayne Jones, Executive Director of the Galveston Historical Foundation. Through exhibitions, tours, lectures, and community gatherings, we're inviting residents and visitors to reflect on the past while deepening their connection to the people and places that shaped our island's remarkable recovery.
Throughout the first two weeks of September, visitors can dive deeper into the history and science behind the storm through GHF's expert-led lectures and tours. Highlights include:
- 09/03/25 | Hurricane History & The 1900 Storm at 1859 Ashton Villa
- 09/04/25 | Tropical Meteorology & The Oleander City at the 1920 City National Bank Building
- 09/06/25 | The Great Storm Open House Tour with access to five historic homes
- 09/07/25 | 1900 Storm Trolley Tours with two time slots
- 09/11/25 | Storm-themed Trivia Night at Galveston Historic Seaport
- 09/12/25 | 10th Step Tours of Ashton Villa after dark for added atmosphere
To honor the city's architectural survivors, GHF has launched two recognition initiatives: the Storm Survivor Sign Program, offering commemorative yard signs for properties that withstood the 1900 storm, and the Storm Survivor Plaque Program, which provides cast-bronze plaques for qualifying historic buildings. Both programs serve as tangible reminders of Galveston's layered history and steadfast character.
On the morning of September 6, history lovers can attend a special book club event at Rosenberg Library with author Shelly Henley Kelly, co-author of Through a Night of Horrors: Voices from the 1900 Galveston Storm. The presentation includes a curated selection of museum artifacts and firsthand survivor accounts. Complementing the commemoration, GHF is also offering a line of exclusive anniversary merchandise, available both online and at local retail locations, with proceeds supporting ongoing preservation efforts.
For full event listings, registration, and merchandise details, visit:
The Great Storm Anniversary
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