Regal Revelry: The Royal Connection of Mardi Gras Costumes

Unboxing History

Unboxing History, Episode 1 is a conversation between Christine Hopkins, a Galveston author and local expert, and Jodi Wright-Gidley, director of the Galveston County Museum. As part of this series, they’ll unbox the treasures in the collection of the museum. In this episode, they discuss the history and significance of Mardi Gras and Treasure Ball in Galveston, focusing on the use of ermine fur in the costumes currently featured in the exhibit. They also discuss the history of Mardi Gras in Galveston and invite listeners to visit the Galveston County Museum.

Show Notes:

Unboxing History: Regal Revelry: The Royal Connection of Mardi Gras Costumes

In the first episode of 'Unboxing History,' hosts Christine Hopkins and Jodi Wright-Gidley explore connections between European royalty, ermine fur, and Galveston's Mardi Gras. The show delves into the history and symbolism of the ermine fur, its ties to royalty, and its presence in Mardi Gras costumes despite modern ethical shifts against real fur use. The hosts also discuss Mardi Gras's beginnings in 600 AD, its relevance in Galveston, Treasure Ball, and how it underwent a revival in 1985. Listeners are invited to visit the Galveston County Museum's Mardi Gras exhibit, featuring artifacts and costumes dating back to 1856.

00:00 Introduction to Unboxing History

00:31 Unveiling the Historic Treasure

00:57 The History and Significance of Ermine

01:43 Ermine and Mardi Gras Connection

02:21 The Tradition of Mardi Gras in Galveston

03:28 The Role of Mardi Gras in Community Fundraising

03:56 Revival of Mardi Gras in Galveston

04:05 Exploring the Mardi Gras Exhibit at the Galveston County Museum

05:10 How to Get Involved with the Galveston County Museum

05:37 Donating Mardi Gras Items to the Museum

06:18 Conclusion: The Growth of Mardi Gras Since Its Revival

Thank you for listening to Unboxing History, presented by the Galveston County Museum.
For more information, visit our website.
History of the Galveston County Museum
The Galveston County Museum was formed in 1976. It was located on Market Street for many years. After Hurricane Ike damaged the HVAC and electrical systems in 2008, the unharmed artifacts were moved. Now, the museum is located in the Galveston County courthouse building at 722 Moody/21st Street in Galveston.

​Galveston County Museum is a joint project of the Galveston County Commissioners Court and Galveston County History, Inc. The museum cares for a collection of 20,000 artifacts and archives. We also maintain the Historical Commission's library. If you are interested in research or donating an artifact related to Galveston County history, please call 409.766.2340.

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Chapters

1. Introduction to Unboxing History (00:00:00)

2. Unveiling the Historic Treasure (00:31:00)

3. The History and Significance of Ermine (00:57:00)

4. Ermine and Mardi Gras Connection (01:43:00)

5. The Tradition of Mardi Gras in Galveston (02:21:00)

6. The Role of Mardi Gras in Community Fundraising (03:28:00)

7. Revival of Mardi Gras in Galveston (03:56:00)

8. Exploring the Mardi Gras Exhibit at the Galveston County Museum (04:05:00)

9. How to Get Involved with the Galveston County Museum (05:10:00)

10. Donating Mardi Gras Items to the Museum (05:37:00)

11. Conclusion: The Growth of Mardi Gras Since Its Revival (06:18:00)