February 5-6, 2021 Dwyers in Houston/Galveston, TX

 On Friday, we drove to Galveston.  It was a cold windy day, but we made the most of it.  We located a bed and breakfast named the Schaefer Haus.  That was our grandparent’s name, even spelled correctly.  

  

We toured the Bishop’s Palace.  It was built between 1887 and 1893 and known as the Gresham’s Castle.  Gresham was a lawyer and politician and lived here with his wife and 9 children.  It is a Victorian style house made of stone and has survived several hurricanes.  People have even taken shelter in the home during hurricanes.   In 1923, Catholic Diocese of Galveston purchased it, since it was across the street from the Sacred Heart Church.  It became the residence for the Bishop.  It was opened to the public in 1963 and is now owned by the Galveston Historical Foundation.  There was also an interesting exhibit of hurricane damage to Galveston over the years.

 

Sacred Heart Catholic church

 

interesting how the half circle frames around the circular windows continued around the dome, even where there wasn't a wall to support them

this chapel was added when it became the Bishop's residence

can you find me in the photo?

We drove back to their home past the Houston Space Center and enjoyed a nice dinner at their home.  It’s always nice to visit with them. 

Beverly, Mary, Gary Dwyer on the boardwalk

blustery day on the Gulf of Mexico

Beverly, Lindy Dwyer, Mary

Beverly, Gary Dwyer, Mary

Wonderful host and hostess

Saturday Feb 6, after our great breakfast, we drove to Brownsville, TX.  We met Janice at our condo for the week.  Jim had driven her over from Donna, TX that afternoon.  We picked up BBQ and enjoyed the evening at the condo.