Historical Marker

Ursuline Nuns in Galveston

Historical marker location:
2601 Avenue N, Galveston, Texas
( Holy Family Catholic School campus near cemetery)
Marker installed: 1997
Marker size: 27" x 42"

In January 1847 seven nuns of the Ursuline Order, the first order of religious women in Texas, came to Galveston and established a convent and academy. The school opened with 25 students in February 1847, and quickly added more pupils, some of whom boarded.

In addition to educating the youth of the area, the Ursuline nuns ministered to the community through numerous tribulations. During yellow fever epidemics of 1847, 1853, 1858, and 1868, the convent served as a hospital. Both Union and Confederate soldiers were treated by the nuns during the Civil War without regard for the sisters' personal safety.

The convent and academy also provided shelter to the citizens of Galveston when hurricanes struck the area. During a hurricane in 1900 more than 1,000 people found shelter in the Ursuline building, the only structure standing near the Gulf area. The nuns rescued many people, at times risking their own lives.

The nuns set about in purposeful activity following each trial. The Ursuline Academy continued until the 1960s when it became part of the Catholic school system. The sisters staffed the parochial schools. The number of Ursuline nuns dwindled until 1993 when the last sister left the area, signaling the end of an era. (1997)

As one of the most visible programs of the Texas Historical Commission (THC), historical markers commemorate diverse topics in Texas history, including: the history and architecture of houses, commercial and public buildings, religious congregations, and military sites; events that changed the course of local and state history; and individuals who have made lasting contributions to the state, community organizations, and businesses.

women
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Texas random facts
Galveston County, located on the Gulf Coast of Texas, has a rich and fascinating history that dates back centuries. The area was inhabited by Native American tribes for thousands of years before European explorers arrived in the 16th century. Spanish explorers were among the first to visit the region, followed by French and English explorers in the 17th and 18th centuries.

In 1816, Pirate Jean Lafitte established a short-lived settlement on Galveston Island, which became a haven for smugglers and criminals. However, the pirate era came to an end when the Mexican government took control of Texas and drove out Lafitte and his fellow pirates.

The 19th century saw Galveston County become a major seaport and commercial center. In 1839, the city of Galveston was founded and quickly grew in size and prosperity. The city became an important hub for the Texas cotton industry and played a significant role in the Texas Revolution and the Civil War.

However, Galveston faced numerous challenges throughout its history, including devastating hurricanes. The most notable was the Great Storm of 1900, which remains the deadliest natural disaster in U.S. history, claiming thousands of lives and causing extensive damage. Despite the destruction, Galveston rebuilt and implemented engineering projects, including the construction of a seawall, to protect the city from future hurricanes.

Today, Galveston County is a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful beaches, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. The county has successfully preserved its rich heritage while embracing modern development, making it a unique and diverse place to visit and live.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Galveston County, Texas.

  • 1528 - Spanish explorer Cabeza de Vaca becomes the first known European to set foot on Galveston Island
  • 1816 - Pirate Jean Lafitte establishes a base on Galveston Island
  • 1825 - Galveston becomes a port of entry for the newly formed Republic of Mexico
  • 1836 - Galveston becomes an important port during the Texas Revolution
  • 1839 - The City of Galveston is officially incorporated
  • 1854 - Galveston becomes the largest city in Texas
  • 1900 - Galveston is struck by a devastating hurricane, resulting in over 6,000 deaths
  • 1901 - Oil is discovered in nearby Spindletop, leading to a period of economic growth
  • 1957 - The world's first offshore drilling rig is built in Galveston
  • 2008 - Hurricane Ike causes significant damage to Galveston