“Gresham’s Castle” or Bishop’s Palace? You choose. Today we stand before the Bishop’s Palace, an exuberant and eerie Victorian residence in Galveston. It is also known as Gresham’s Castle. This extravagant structure has earned its reputation as one of America’s finest examples of Victorian exuberance.
The Bishop’s Palace was designed by Nicholas J. Clayton for Walter Gresham and his family. Construction took place between 1887 and 1892. The estimated cost was a whopping $250,000. The Greshams themselves named the property Gresham’s Castle. This referred to its ChÂteauesque style.
Walter Gresham was a lawyer, politician, and railway magnate. He commissioned the home in 1887. Six years later in 1893, Walter and Josephine formally opened Gresham’s Castle. Josephine Gresham loved throwing parties. She was thoughtful about her guests’ comfort. She even placed pillows on the staircase for guests who grew tired. Josephine was also an artist. She painted murals throughout the home.
The Bishop’s Palace spans 19082 square feet. Its facade features etchings of people, animals, plants, and mythical creatures. Inside, stained glass windows flank fireplaces. Floors and staircases are made from rare wood. One fireplace is even lined in silver.
Now let’s talk about its resilience. The Gresham mansion was built of stone. It withstood the great hurricane of 1900. The Greshams welcomed hundreds of survivors into their home. Over 200 Galvestonians sought refuge here.
In 1923, the Galveston-Houston Diocese of the Catholic Church purchased Gresham’s Castle for $40500. It was renamed Bishop’s Palace. This was in honor of the Most Reverend Christopher C. E. Byrne. The Bishop lived here until his death at age 82.
The Catholic Church made a few changes. One of the bedrooms was transformed into a consecrated Chapel. You can identify the Chapel by the colorful stained glass on the second floor. In 1963, the diocese opened the estate to the public.
Today, the Galveston Historical Foundation owns the Bishop’s Palace. They acquired the property in 2013. They maintain it and keep it open for public tours. The American Institute of Architects listed Bishop’s Palace as one of the 100 most important buildings in America.
But there’s more to this place than meets the eye. Galveston is infamous for ghosts. The Hurricane of 1900 killed thousands. Bishop’s Palace stood strong. Witnesses report inexplicable pushing, scratching, and tripping. Some believe the spirits of Walter and Josephine Gresham still roam here. Walter is known to pace the halls, especially during hurricanes. Josephine’s card box moves about on its own.
So, keep your eyes peeled for paranormal activity. The Bishop’s Palace offers tours during the full moon. Are you ready to explore this architectural treasure and perhaps encounter a ghost or two?