Unboxing History

Unboxing History | History Expert Jodi Wright-Gidley & Galveston Author Christine Hopkins
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Explore the past with Unboxing History as we take you on a journey into the captivating Galveston County Historical Museum collection. Uncover the hidden stories behind artifacts, delve into the intricacies of local history, and discover the treasures that connect us to bygone eras. Join us for a unique and insightful exploration of our heritage, one unboxing at a time. Hosted by local author and Galveston expert Christine Hopkins and Museum Director Jodi Wright-Gidley, "Unboxing History" will delve into the treasures of the Galveston County Museum, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the artifact collection and exhibits.  The museum is located inside the courthouse at 722 Moody/21st Street in Galveston, Texas. It is free and open to the public on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, 10 to 4—private tours and a Padlock Mystery game available by appointment.#historypodcast #texashistory

  1. Unboxing History: Back to School Edition

    AUG 13

    Unboxing History: Back to School Edition

    Send us a text Join hosts Christine Hopkins and Jodi Wright-Gidley as they unbox the rich history of Galveston County’s schools in this special Back to School edition of Unboxing History! Discover unique artifacts ranging from an 1885 teaching certificate to a 1920s report card, and hear the stories behind them. Whether you’re a history buff or just curious about Galveston’s past, this episode offers a glimpse into some unique artifacts in the museum’s collection.  Special thanks to the Galveston Chamber of Commerce for their ongoing support and Shawn Schoellkopf for creating and performing the theme music. Thank you for listening to Unboxing History, presented by the Galveston County Museum. For more information on the Museum, visit our website. History of the Galveston County Museum The Galveston County Museum was formed in 1976. It was located on Market Street for many years. After Hurricane Ike damaged the HVAC and electrical systems in 2008, the unharmed artifacts were moved. Now, the museum is located in the Galveston County courthouse building at 722 Moody/21st Street in Galveston. ​Galveston County Museum is a joint project of the Galveston County Commissioners Court and Galveston County History, Inc. The museum cares for a collection of 20,000 artifacts and archives. We also maintain the Historical Commission's library. If you are interested in research or donating an artifact related to Galveston County history, please call 409.766.2340. Follow us on Facebook Follow up on Instagram

    14 min
  2. From Posters to Murals: Commemorating Juneteenth

    JUN 11

    From Posters to Murals: Commemorating Juneteenth

    Send us a text Galveston's Pictorial Legacy of Juneteenth In this episode of Unboxing History, hosts Christine Hopkins and Jodi Wright-Gidley explore a World War I poster commemorating the Emancipation Proclamation. They are joined by historian Sam Collins III, who discusses the historical significance of the poster, which links the Civil War to World War I, and highlights key figures like Abraham Lincoln, Paul Dunnbar, and Frederick Douglas. Collins also elaborates on the significance of General Order No. 3 and the Absolute Equality mural in Galveston. The mural, an outdoor classroom, and other initiatives such as the Nia Cultural Center aim to educate and inspire visitors about the history of Juneteenth in Galveston, the birthplace of this pivotal celebration of freedom. Special thanks to the Galveston Chamber of Commerce for their ongoing support and Shawn Schoellkopf for creating and performing the theme music. Thank you for listening to Unboxing History, presented by the Galveston County Museum. For more information on the Museum, visit our website. History of the Galveston County Museum The Galveston County Museum was formed in 1976. It was located on Market Street for many years. After Hurricane Ike damaged the HVAC and electrical systems in 2008, the unharmed artifacts were moved. Now, the museum is located in the Galveston County courthouse building at 722 Moody/21st Street in Galveston. ​Galveston County Museum is a joint project of the Galveston County Commissioners Court and Galveston County History, Inc. The museum cares for a collection of 20,000 artifacts and archives. We also maintain the Historical Commission's library. If you are interested in research or donating an artifact related to Galveston County history, please call 409.766.2340. Follow us on Facebook Follow up on Instagram

    14 min
  3. Unboxing Lesser-Known Stories of Galveston County History

    APR 9

    Unboxing Lesser-Known Stories of Galveston County History

    Send us a text In this episode of Unboxing History, Christine Hopkins and Jodi Wright Gidley, executive director of the Galveston County Museum, delve into fascinating artifacts from Galveston County's rich history. They uncover a Colombian mammoth bone and discuss the area's prehistoric fossils, explore the origins of the town of Algoa, and highlight the significance of early settlers bringing trees and crops to the region. Additionally, quirky historical facts are shared, such as deer swimming across Galveston Bay. The episode also promotes the newly released book 'Galveston County, Texas, A Narrative and Pictorial History,' offering a comprehensive view of the county’s development and interconnected communities. Special thanks to the Galveston Chamber of Commerce for their ongoing support and Shawn Schoellkopf for creating and performing the theme music. Thank you for listening to Unboxing History, presented by the Galveston County Museum. For more information on the Museum, visit our website. History of the Galveston County Museum The Galveston County Museum was formed in 1976. It was located on Market Street for many years. After Hurricane Ike damaged the HVAC and electrical systems in 2008, the unharmed artifacts were moved. Now, the museum is located in the Galveston County courthouse building at 722 Moody/21st Street in Galveston. ​Galveston County Museum is a joint project of the Galveston County Commissioners Court and Galveston County History, Inc. The museum cares for a collection of 20,000 artifacts and archives. We also maintain the Historical Commission's library. If you are interested in research or donating an artifact related to Galveston County history, please call 409.766.2340. Follow us on Facebook Follow up on Instagram

    10 min
  4. Galveston's Mardi Gras Majesty Legacy

    FEB 7

    Galveston's Mardi Gras Majesty Legacy

    Send us a text In this episode of Unboxing History, hosts Christine and Jodi explore a colorful artifact from the Galveston County Museum's collection – a crown from the 1961 Treasure Ball Royal Court. They delve into the rich history of Mardi Gras celebrations in Galveston, detailing key events and traditions that have shaped the festivities over the years. The discussion covers the origins of Mardi Gras in Galveston, the prominent krewes, and the significance of the Treasure Ball. Listeners are also introduced to the museum's permanent Mardi Gras exhibit, which features a vast collection of capes, trains, crowns, and more, highlighting the community's enduring connection to this vibrant tradition. Special thanks to the Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce.  Special thanks to the Galveston Chamber of Commerce for their ongoing support and Shawn Schoellkopf for creating and performing the theme music. Thank you for listening to Unboxing History, presented by the Galveston County Museum. For more information on the Museum, visit our website. History of the Galveston County Museum The Galveston County Museum was formed in 1976. It was located on Market Street for many years. After Hurricane Ike damaged the HVAC and electrical systems in 2008, the unharmed artifacts were moved. Now, the museum is located in the Galveston County courthouse building at 722 Moody/21st Street in Galveston. ​Galveston County Museum is a joint project of the Galveston County Commissioners Court and Galveston County History, Inc. The museum cares for a collection of 20,000 artifacts and archives. We also maintain the Historical Commission's library. If you are interested in research or donating an artifact related to Galveston County history, please call 409.766.2340. Follow us on Facebook Follow up on Instagram

    6 min
  5. Vintage Celebrations: The Timeless Story Behind a 114-Year-Old Christmas Tree

    12/11/2024

    Vintage Celebrations: The Timeless Story Behind a 114-Year-Old Christmas Tree

    Send us a text Could the oldest Christmas tree in the United States be in Galveston? In this special holiday episode of Unboxing History, Christine Hopkins and Jodi Wright-Gidley, hosts of the Unboxing History Podcast, presented by the Galveston County Museum, discuss a 114-year-old artificial Christmas tree, potentially the oldest in Texas or the country. The tree, donated by Mr. Lynn Ringh, features ornaments with rich histories, including a straw hat from Tampico, Mexico, and a World War II-era cardboard and foil ornament. Mr. Ringh shares heartfelt stories about his family's traditions, the Great Depression's impact, and why the tree holds significant sentimental value. The episode highlights the importance of preserving and donating family heirlooms to museums to keep history alive. Special thanks to the Galveston Chamber of Commerce for their ongoing support and Shawn Schoellkopf for creating and performing the theme music. Thank you for listening to Unboxing History, presented by the Galveston County Museum. For more information on the Museum, visit our website. History of the Galveston County Museum The Galveston County Museum was formed in 1976. It was located on Market Street for many years. After Hurricane Ike damaged the HVAC and electrical systems in 2008, the unharmed artifacts were moved. Now, the museum is located in the Galveston County courthouse building at 722 Moody/21st Street in Galveston. ​Galveston County Museum is a joint project of the Galveston County Commissioners Court and Galveston County History, Inc. The museum cares for a collection of 20,000 artifacts and archives. We also maintain the Historical Commission's library. If you are interested in research or donating an artifact related to Galveston County history, please call 409.766.2340. Follow us on Facebook Follow up on Instagram

    21 min
  6. Unboxing the History of Camp Wallace

    11/20/2024

    Unboxing the History of Camp Wallace

    Send us a text Did you know Camp Wallace once served as a training facility for soldiers, housed POWs, and even served as a morgue? In this episode of Unboxing History, hosts Christine Hopkins and Jodi Wright-Gidley from the Galveston County Museum, delve into the history of Camp Wallace, a World War II military camp located in what is now Jack Brooks Park in Galveston County. They examine artifacts related to the camp, including a handkerchief, a pillowcase, a postcard, and a separation center brochure. Guest speaker Shana Rawls, who wrote a book on Camp Wallace, shares detailed insights about the camp's functions, its layout, and its significance during and after the war. The episode also highlights the Galveston County Museum's efforts to preserve and educate the public about the area's rich military history, inviting listeners to visit the museum and explore the remnants of Camp Wallace. Special thanks to the Galveston Chamber of Commerce for their ongoing support and Shawn Schoellkopf for creating and performing the theme music. Thank you for listening to Unboxing History, presented by the Galveston County Museum. For more information on the Museum, visit our website. History of the Galveston County Museum The Galveston County Museum was formed in 1976. It was located on Market Street for many years. After Hurricane Ike damaged the HVAC and electrical systems in 2008, the unharmed artifacts were moved. Now, the museum is located in the Galveston County courthouse building at 722 Moody/21st Street in Galveston. ​Galveston County Museum is a joint project of the Galveston County Commissioners Court and Galveston County History, Inc. The museum cares for a collection of 20,000 artifacts and archives. We also maintain the Historical Commission's library. If you are interested in research or donating an artifact related to Galveston County history, please call 409.766.2340. Follow us on Facebook Follow up on Instagram

    27 min
  7. From Corking Fees to Clara Barton: Timeless Tales from The Tremont

    10/16/2024

    From Corking Fees to Clara Barton: Timeless Tales from The Tremont

    Send us a text In this episode of Unboxing History, hosts Christine Hopkins and Jodi Wright-Gidley explore intriguing artifacts from the Tremont Hotel's past, including an 1879 menu and postcards. Special guest Kathleen Maca, a historian who authored a book on the Tremont Hotel, shares fascinating insights into the hotel's rich history, its notable guests, and its connection to Galveston's historical events like the Civil War and the 1900 Storm. Discover the transformation of the Tremont Hotel over the years and learn about the Galveston County Museum's crucial role in preserving this history. Special thanks to the Galveston Chamber of Commerce for their ongoing support and Shawn Schoellkopf for creating and performing the theme music. Thank you for listening to Unboxing History, presented by the Galveston County Museum. For more information on the Museum, visit our website. History of the Galveston County Museum The Galveston County Museum was formed in 1976. It was located on Market Street for many years. After Hurricane Ike damaged the HVAC and electrical systems in 2008, the unharmed artifacts were moved. Now, the museum is located in the Galveston County courthouse building at 722 Moody/21st Street in Galveston. ​Galveston County Museum is a joint project of the Galveston County Commissioners Court and Galveston County History, Inc. The museum cares for a collection of 20,000 artifacts and archives. We also maintain the Historical Commission's library. If you are interested in research or donating an artifact related to Galveston County history, please call 409.766.2340. Follow us on Facebook Follow up on Instagram

    27 min
  8. Galveston’s Weather Warriors: Unboxing History with Dr Hurricane Hal Needham

    09/26/2024

    Galveston’s Weather Warriors: Unboxing History with Dr Hurricane Hal Needham

    Send us a text In this episode of Unboxing History, co-hosts Christine Hopkins and Jodi Wright-Gidley unbox a special artifact from the Galveston County Museum: a portrait of the pioneering meteorologist Dr. John Freeman. They discuss Dr. Freeman's contributions to meteorology, including his work with the U.S. Weather Bureau and the founding of the Weather Research Center. Special guest Dr. Hal Needham, also known as Hurricane Hal, provides expert insights into the historical weather instruments on exhibit and compares past and present meteorological practices. The episode explores the history of weather forecasting, the impact of historical storms like the 1900 Galveston Hurricane, and the importance of learning from history to prepare for future weather events. The museum features a recreated 1940s weather forecasting office and a variety of meteorological tools, underscoring the evolution of weather science. Special thanks to the Galveston Chamber of Commerce for their ongoing support and Shawn Schoellkopf for creating and performing the theme music. Thank you for listening to Unboxing History, presented by the Galveston County Museum. For more information on the Museum, visit our website. History of the Galveston County Museum The Galveston County Museum was formed in 1976. It was located on Market Street for many years. After Hurricane Ike damaged the HVAC and electrical systems in 2008, the unharmed artifacts were moved. Now, the museum is located in the Galveston County courthouse building at 722 Moody/21st Street in Galveston. ​Galveston County Museum is a joint project of the Galveston County Commissioners Court and Galveston County History, Inc. The museum cares for a collection of 20,000 artifacts and archives. We also maintain the Historical Commission's library. If you are interested in research or donating an artifact related to Galveston County history, please call 409.766.2340. Follow us on Facebook Follow up on Instagram

    25 min
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Trailer

About

Explore the past with Unboxing History as we take you on a journey into the captivating Galveston County Historical Museum collection. Uncover the hidden stories behind artifacts, delve into the intricacies of local history, and discover the treasures that connect us to bygone eras. Join us for a unique and insightful exploration of our heritage, one unboxing at a time. Hosted by local author and Galveston expert Christine Hopkins and Museum Director Jodi Wright-Gidley, "Unboxing History" will delve into the treasures of the Galveston County Museum, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the artifact collection and exhibits.  The museum is located inside the courthouse at 722 Moody/21st Street in Galveston, Texas. It is free and open to the public on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, 10 to 4—private tours and a Padlock Mystery game available by appointment.#historypodcast #texashistory

Information

  • Creator
    Unboxing History | History Expert Jodi Wright-Gidley & Galveston Author Christine Hopkins
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    17
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Unboxing History
  • Show Website
    Unboxing History