Menardi Gras

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Tonight, I attended Menardi Gras 2018, held on the grounds of the Michel B. Menard House, site of Galveston Island’s first Mardi Gras celebration - held way back in 1853.

The grand event, hosted by the Galveston Historical Foundation, was a terrific evening of great food, fun and frivolity. Live music was provided by the Hustlers Brass Band, and partygoers showed up in festive and uniquely interesting Mardi Gras garb and ready to to party hearty

I enjoyed being part of this particular party as much as any I’ve attended since becoming a part-time resident of the island. Key to me was the size of the crowd - not too big! Tickets were limited, so walking around was easy. At the same time, my friends and I were able to secure places at one of the large round tables, so seated dining was available too. The offerings of the New Orleans-inspired buffet could not have been more perfect. Loved the muffuletta kabobs, spicy hot red beans and rice, Cajun sausage-stuffed mushrooms, pulled pork sliders and shrimp etoufee over white rice. All were yummy, and most of us went back for seconds. Champagne and signature adult beverages, to my surprise, were served from an open bar.

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About the Menard House
The Menard House, located at 1604 33rd Street, was built in in the Greek-revival style in 1838 and is the oldest surviving building on the island. The furniture and furnishings, with few exceptions, all date from the first half of the 19th century (1800-1850s). They are of the federal, empire, regency, Biedermeier and William IV styles, as interpreted by American, English, French and German artisans. Carpets, drapes and upholstery fabrics are reproductions appropriate for the period 1830-1850.

Menard died in 1856, and his descendants occupied the house until 1879. In 1880, the house was bought by Edwin N. Ketchum, who was the city’s police chief during the Great Storm of 1900. The Ketchum family owned the home until the 1970s.

During the early 1990s, the house was threatened with demolition by the City of Galveston. The current owners purchased the house and spent years researching, repairing and reconstructing it. Through a partnership with the Galveston Historical Foundation, the house is operated as a museum and is available for private events.