Texas history is not known for its civility. Rather, it is famed throughout the world for being a part of the wild west with saloon fights, handsome cowboys atop muscular horses, and painted ladies who weren’t meant to mingle in polite society. Discovered by Spanish explorer Álvar Núñez Cabeza de Vaca when his ship wrecked in the waters just offshore of the island, Galveston was not like most Texas towns, and was often considered more genteel than the tough and ready desert towns found throughout the state (with the exception of that approximately 50-year period when Galveston was turned into a pirate colony, but we don’t talk about that!). This is where civilized men built grand mansions and filled them with respectable wives, expensive furniture, and more than a few children, and the Willis-Moody Mansion is one such example.
Located at 2618 Broadway Avenue J
Construction of the Willis-Moody Mansion began in 1893 and lasted for approximately two years; homes took longer to build in the days before power tools, but it was definitely worth the wait for this 28,000-square-foot home with its 31 rooms (20 of which are on the tour today!). The Willis family only lived it in for two years before the Great Storm of 1900 hit, selling it to the successful Moody family who lived in for the next 86 years. Successful in nearly every venture they tried, the Moody empire was a strong one, and when you tour the mansion, you have the opportunity to view firsthand the lifestyle they led.
Self-Guided and Behind the Scenes Tours Offered
The craftmanship of this incredible mansion will take your breath away from your first steps inside the grand doors. Parquet wood floors, stained glass windows, and velvet curtains create an air of elegance and sophistication just not seen in today’s world. Each of the rooms on the tour are filled with furnishings, décor, and even photographs of the family who lived here for so long, allowing visitors to get a true feeling of the times—even the vehicles that belonged to the Moody’s over the years are housed in the garages. The gardens on the exterior are lush and mature, featuring flowers and plants from the time of construction. Every detail was considered when renovations were first completed.
Sterling Realtors Holds the Key to Your Vacation Adventures!
While not as grand as the Willis-Moody House, your Sterling Realtors luxury beach side guaranteed is special as well! Reserve yours today and discover the beauty in our history and the wonder of our future and the joy of the present!
