Port to host author talk, book sales and signing event for limited-edition, commemortative book at Ashton Villa in Galveston
GALVESTON, TX (Oct. 9, 2025) – The Galveston Wharves is marking the port’s 200th anniversary with the publication of a 140-page, hard-cover history book. The port will host a book release event 5:30-6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 29, in the Ashton Villa Ballroom, 2328 Broadway.
Published in partnership with Galveston Historical Foundation (GHF), the commemorative history book covers 200 years of commerce at the port and spotlights its bicentennial sponsors. Books may be purchased at the event or online at portofgalveston200.com/book.
The program will include presentations by Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves port director and CEO, and Dwayne Jones, book author and GHF executive director and CEO. The talks will be followed by a book signing, book sales and refreshments. Free parking is available behind Ashton Villa on Sealy Avenue.
The limited-edition book is filled with more than 200 historical images and recounts 200 years of commerce from the port’s designation as an official port of entry by the Mexican government on Oct. 17, 1825, through its position today as a major cruise and cargo port.
Jones said, “This new publication provides additional insight to Galveston’s dynamic and rich history. GHF was pleased to work with the port staff to document 200 years of accomplishments through historic images and new research. This publication is an important addition to our local history.”
Rees said, “We’re grateful for the expert research and writing by Mr. Jones and his staff, who made this unique book possible.”
He added that the book release caps off a memorable year of port-hosted, sponsor-funded celebrations, including National Maritime Day event presented by Wallenius Wilhelmsen in May; Party on the Pier presented by Royal Caribbean Friday, Oct. 17, at Pier 21; and the 200th Anniversary Gala presented by Carnival Cruise Line, with entertainment presented by Callan Marine, Saturday, Oct. 18, at Galveston Island Convention Center. Details for all events can be found at PortofGalveston200.com.
Rees said, “Thanks to the generous support of our bicentennial sponsors, we’re celebrating our 200th birthday and recognizing our many port partners in a big way, with net proceeds funding maritime scholarships at Texas A&M University at Galveston.”
200 Years of Commerce
Today, the 840-acre port is a thriving commercial center with infrastructure and assets to serve growing cruise, cargo and commercial businesses. The port is the fourth most popular cruise home port in the U.S., hosting five major cruise lines and moving more than 3.4 million cruise passengers a year.
The port also leases and maintains a wide range of cargo facilities on the deep-water Galveston Harbor, which is ranked among the top 40 busiest U.S. cargo waterways. More information at PortofGalveston.com.