Michel B. Menard House, Galveston

The Michel B. Menard House, built in 1838, holds the distinguished title of being Galveston's oldest residence. Designed in the Greek Revival style, the home reflects the refined elegance of the early 19th century and now serves as a museum and intimate event venue. Originally the residence of Michel B. Menard-one of the founding figures of Galveston-the house stands as a monument to the island's formative years. Menard, born near Montreal in 1805, arrived in Texas in 1829 and became a key player in land speculation, founding the Galveston City Company in 1838 alongside other notable businessmen. His efforts led to Galveston’s incorporation the following year.

Inside, the Menard House is a time capsule of 19th-century style and craftsmanship. With its original furniture and furnishings reflecting Federal, Empire, Regency, Biedermeier, and William IV influences, the home offers a rare, immersive look into pre-Civil War domestic life. Most of the textiles, from carpets to drapes, are carefully reproduced to match the period between 1830 and 1850. Each room evokes the elegance and cultural diversity of early Galveston society, shaped by American, French, English, and German artisanship.

After Menard’s death in 1856, the house remained in his family until 1879 before being purchased by Edwin N. Ketchum, Galveston’s police chief during the catastrophic 1900 hurricane. The Ketchum family held the home until the 1970s. By the 1990s, it had fallen into severe disrepair and faced demolition-until it was saved by preservation-minded owners who undertook a meticulous restoration. In partnership with the Galveston Historical Foundation, the Menard House now welcomes visitors as a museum and hosts private events, continuing to play an active role in the city Menard helped create.