GHF offers our Antique Treasures sale on March 5-6. The sale benefits the care and upkeep of the historic Williams House built in 1839. The rare house is one of the island’s most interesting buildings and is now occupied by a full time house curator. As the first property purchased for preservation by GHF in 1954, the Williams House is considered one of the most important for the island’s and state’s history.

Antique Treasures features quality antique and decorative objects as well as assorted collectibles. This year we host the sale at the GHF warehouse at 2010 Mechanic Street. A preview party and sale begins on Friday, March 5th with an opening for members from 5:30 to 6:30 ($10) and general public 6:30 to 7:30 ($12). The remaining items are for sale on Saturday, March 6th from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Stop by or donate for the sale! Check the web site for updates and more information. www.galvestonhistory.org

The next exciting adventure is the annual day sails for the tall ship of Texas, ELISSA. GHF annually sails its 1877 iron barque for about two weeks each March. The extraordinary vessel is the pride of Galveston. This year promises to be no different. Beginning on Saturday, March 20th through Sunday, March 28th, the well-trained and highly committed crew of ELISSA will show us how sailing in the 19th century made our natural port an economic giant and major point of immigration for Texas. Sailing is by invitation only, but you can see her take off from Pier 21 this year and catch a glimpse of her from the far eastern beach.

ELISSA’s volunteers train for nine months to sail this National Landmark. In 2008-2009, these remarkable men and women (and youth crew too) gave more than 28,000 hours to keeping her afloat and sailing. Volunteer recruitment begins each summer and is open to all who can commit. Watch for a new cast call for volunteers soon!

On a last note, our annual Historic Homes Tour is coming up the first two weekends in May. You will appreciate the fine line up of houses, most never before open to the public. Our special treat is the launch of our Green Revival house at 31st and Avenue Q. This is the most exciting new project for GHF in 20 years. Stay tuned for more information or check out the web site.

If you are not a member of GHF, we would love to have you join us as we make Galveston Island the treasure of Texas once again. Join at www.galvestonhistory.org.