The Rosenberg Library, Galveston, a TroysArt photo
It’s no secret that Galveston Island is rich in history. The best known cultural attractions are without a doubt architectural—such as The Bishop’s Palace. And for connoisseurs of fine art there is a multitude of art galleries downtown. But I must admit that I had no idea that there is actually fine art available for viewing in a museum setting. The Rosenberg Library isn’t just a repository for books.
Born in Switzerland, Henry Rosenberg immigrated to Galveston in the 1840s and got crazy rich. When he died in 1893 he left almost a million dollars to charity, including $400,000 to Galveston for a public library.
With funding from his bequest, the Rosenberg Library Association was organized and the stunning Beaux-Arts style building opened in 1904; it is now the oldest continuously operating library in Texas.
Louis Amateis was commissioned by the Daughters of the Republic of Texas to create a life-size bronze statue of Rosenberg; it was dedicated in 1906 and is located front and center as visitors approach the door.
Gallagher’s Dairy by Julius Stockfleth, image Courtesy of Rosenberg Library, Galveston, Texas
Artwork and artifacts are displayed throughout the grand structure but the fourth floor is specifically designated as a museum. Holdings include historical displays pertaining to Galveston and early Texas as well as a vast array of paintings, including early Galveston depictions by Julius Stockfleth.
Incorporating a museum into a historic library building is brilliant, and makes for a well-rounded attraction for both tourists and locals.
Portrait of a Woman in the manner of Modigliani, image Courtesy of Rosenberg Library, Galveston, Texas
One of the favorite art attractions is a painting that was believed to be a Modigliani. An original painting by Amedeo Modigliani is worth millions; last year a major portrait “Doomed Lover” sold at auction for $42 million. In 2013 the Galveston portrait underwent examination by experts and was determined to be “in the manner of” the master. But despite the disappointing outcome the painting of a woman with almond shaped eyes and elongated neck is on display next to a small placard telling its story. Kudos, as other museums might have hidden it away… But it really does look like a Modigliani!
“Sailing” (Marion Lee Sandy Kempner) by Robert Joy, image Courtesy of Rosenberg Library, Galveston, Texas
Sandy’s Room is a spacious and serene reading room named in honor of Marion Lee “Sandy” Kempner. Sandy was grandson to the wealthy industrialist-financier I.H. Kempner. He went to Duke, spent time in the Peace Corps, and at 24 enlisted in the US Marine Corps. In 1966 he was sent to Vietnam and shortly thereafter killed. Awe, poor Sandy; it makes you kind of sad… The primary painting in Sandy’s Room is a stunning life-size portrait by one of my favorite 20th Century portrait artists, Robert Joy (one of two Joy portraits in the museum).
I know how hot it can be at the beach or at the Galvez’ swim up bar. The next time you are in Galveston take a break from the sun, have a bite to eat, and get some culture! I visited last Tuesday before hitting the beach.
Located at 2310 Sealy, not far off Broadway Blvd., the Rosenberg Library Museum is free to the public with plenty of free parking too. It is the kind of exhibit space to move at your own pace—you can hit the highlights or become ensconced.