FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 13, 2010
Contact: Molly Dannenmaier,
Director of Marketing and Public Relations
409-765-7834
molly.dannenmaier@galvestonhistory.org

Galveston Historical Foundation to Extend Battle of Galveston Harbor Tours through January

The Civil War Battle of Galveston, which took place during the early morning hours of January 1, 1863, is widely acknowledged as the most important military event in Galveston’s history.

To continue the 2010 commemoration, GHF has extended its Battle of Galveston Harbor Tour throughout the month of January. Tours will be offered every remaining Saturday in the month (Jan.16, 23 and 30) at 1 p.m. One-hour tours board at Texas Seaport Museum, Pier 22 in Galveston. Adults $10, Students (4-18) $8; Children 3 and under free. To purchase advance tickets call the Texas Seaport Museum at (409) 763-1877.

Played out on both land and sea, in a drama that unfolded over the course of several months, the Battle of Galveston ended with Confederate forces driving out the Union ships that had held Galveston Harbor since October, 1862. As part of the Union blockade of the Texas coast, Commander William B. Renshaw and his squadron of eight Union ships demanded surrender by Confederate Forces of Galveston Harbor, the most important Texas port, on October 4, 1862.

But Confederate Major General John Bankhead Magruder led a successful campaign to retake Galveston early on New Year’s morning, January 1, 1863. Confederate “cottonclads” struck from the rear of the Union squadron. A naval battle ensued with Magruder’s forces retaking Galveston. Confederate losses numbered 26 killed and 117 wounded. Union losses included the captured infantry and the Harriet Lane, about 150 casualties on the naval ships, and destruction of the Westfield. The port remained under Confederate control for the rest of the war.

For more information about Battle of Galveston Harbor Tours or to make reservations, 409-763-1877. Limited spaces are available for the tours. To make tour reservations, go to www.galvestonhistory.org.