The Bryan Museum

Founded by Mary Jon and J.P. Bryan, Galveston’s The Bryan Museum is the result of the Bryan family’s lifetime commitment to historic preservation and education. An avid collector of books, documents, artifacts and works of fine arts documenting the history of the Southwest, the couple have amassed the largest and most significant collection of its type in the world.With 70,000 items spanning 12,000 years, it includes treasures ranging from ancient Native American cultural artifacts to 21st century pieces—rare German, French, Spanish, and English documents; exquisite saddles; spurs; antique firearms; exceptionally rare maps and books; fine art; religious and folk art; portraits; and documents. The museum unfolds in Galveston’s Orphan’s Home. The stately building boasts warm, elegant interiors with large rooms and soaring ceilings. The museum is open Thursday through Monday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Note: In order to preserve the artwork and documents, the museum maintains a 65-degree indoor temperature, so it’s recommended that guests bring a sweater.