Galveston Unscripted | Free. Texas History. For All.

I sit down with Eddie Janek, one of the few living WWII veterans. At just 17 years old and barely 5 feet tall, Eddie stormed the beaches of Peleliu as a beachmaster, later he witnessed atomic bomb tests from just miles away, after that he served again in the Korean War. But his story doesn’t stop with the military, he came home to coach baseball for decades, serve as a county commissioner, and raise a family rooted in service and community. 

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Lucy Parker Shaw was an early American settler who played a notable role in the development of Galveston, Texas, during the Republic of Texas era. Born in Eastport, Maine, she was the daughter of Jonathan Weston, a prominent local figure. In December 1838, Lucy, her husband Joshua Clark Shaw, and their two-year-old child relocated to Galveston, joining a group of fellow New Englanders seeking new opportunities in the burgeoning republic.

James Valentino is the author of From Maine to Galveston: The Life and Letters of Lucy Parker Shaw, a book that compiles and contextualizes the personal letters of Lucy Parker Shaw, an early settler in Galveston, Texas. While specific details about Valentino's personal background or any familial connection to Lucy Parker Shaw are not readily available, his work indicates a scholarly interest in early American history, particularly the experiences of settlers during the Republic of Texas era. His compilation provides valuable insights into the challenges and daily life of that period through Lucy's firsthand accounts.

James Valentino's Website: https://www.jamesvalentinobooks.com/

From Maine to Galveston, Republic of Texas https://www.amazon.com/Maine-Galveston-Republic-Texas-Letters/dp/1532307101

Subscribe to Galveston Unscripted on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts for more historical insights and stories from this remarkable island: https://www.galvestonunscripted.com/podcasts

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Ed's New Book: Decisions of the Galveston Campaigns
The Twenty-One Critical Decisions That Defined the Operations: https://utpress.org/title/decisions-of-the-galveston-campaigns/

Watch on Youtube: https://youtu.be/V00bBPQJcLE

Exploring with Ed around the Strand: https://youtu.be/gUqIEIl9UUg

The Battle of Galveston With Ed Cotham: https://youtu.be/H7vg0FeYS68

Ed Cotham's Books: https://www.edcotham.com/

Mr. Ed Cotham retired in 2023 as the Chief Investment Officer of the Terry Foundation, the largest private source of scholarships at Texas universities. He holds an undergraduate degree in Economics from the University of Houston, a Masters Degree in Economics from the University of Chicago, and a Law Degree from the University of Texas. Ed is an active member of various historical organizations, including the Houston Civil War Round Table, the Civil War Preservation Trust, and the Society of Civil War Historians. He has received several awards for his volunteer service and contributions to preserving Civil War heritage, including the Frank C. Vandiver Award of Merit and the Dan and Marilyn Laney Prize. Ed is also an accomplished author, with notable works such as "Battle on the Bay: the Civil War Struggle for Galveston" and "Sabine Pass: the Confederacy's Thermopylae." With his expertise and passion for history, Ed Cotham is a distinguished figure in the field of Civil War preservation and an engaging history presenter.

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Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oAztqlphMdE

Texian Navy Day 2024 https://www.texasnavy.org/event-5812705

I sit down with the President of the Texas Navy Association, Scott Powell & discuss a few aspects to the Texas Navy Association. Scott is a commissioned Admiral in the Texas Navy, only made possible by the Governor of Texas. 

Today, the Texas Navy exists primarily as a symbol of historical pride and maritime heritage rather than a functioning military force. It is maintained and celebrated through the nonprofit organization The Texas Navy Association, which works to preserve its legacy and educate the public about the Navy's historical significance to Texas. 

Key efforts include organizing events like Texian Navy Day, supporting museums like the Texas Maritime Museum, and promoting historical preservation projects, including those involving notable vessels. These initiatives help keep the spirit of the Texas Navy alive and honor its contributions to Texas history.

Subscribe to Galveston Unscripted on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts for more historical insights and stories from this remarkable island: https://www.galvestonunscripted.com/podcasts

Check out the podcast and audio tour that is transforming Galveston into the world's largest free museum! https://www.galvestonunscripted.com/

Support the show! Buy me a book! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/jrshaw409

Galveston Unscripted Digital Market: https://www.galvestonunscripted.com/store

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Watch with subtitles on YouTube: 
https://youtu.be/-NqYMZiQ2Ww

Ever wondered how hurricanes have shaped the Texas Gulf Coast and our modern-day preparedness strategies? Join us as we sit down with the legendary Dr. Hal Needham, aka Hurricane Hal, and uncover the fierce history of storms from the catastrophic 1900 Galveston hurricane to modern-day challenges. You'll gain insights into how technological advancements, such as Dan Rather's pioneering coverage during Hurricane Carla, have revolutionized hurricane tracking and how engineering marvels like Galveston's seawall have stood the test of time.

Dr. Needham takes us through a fascinating journey, highlighting how historical storms have informed present-day mitigation strategies and how climate change is altering hurricane characteristics. We delve into the complex dynamics of rapidly intensifying hurricanes and the implications for evacuation plans in vulnerable areas like the Houston-Galveston corridor. Learn about the innovative Fortified Project by Smart Home America and how resilient building practices are becoming essential in combating coastal flooding.

We wrap up with inspiring stories of resilience from both local and international communities, drawing lessons from extreme weather events worldwide. Dr. Needham shares his vision for Galveston's future, emphasizing the city's potential to lead in flood resiliency and technological innovation. This episode is packed with valuable information, from historical engineering feats to modern flood data analysis, ensuring you walk away with a comprehensive understanding of hurricane impacts and the forward-thinking strategies necessary for disaster preparedness.

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I sit down with Director of the Rosenberg Library, Mike Miller and discuss the history and importance of the Rosenberg Library over the past 12 decades in Galveston, Texas.

Watch this episode on YouTube: The Evolution of Galveston's Rosenberg Library with Mike Miller
https://youtu.be/HireM8O2BnE

Subscribe to Galveston Unscripted on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts for more historical insights and stories from this remarkable island: https://www.galvestonunscripted.com/podcasts

Check out the podcast and audio tour that is transforming Galveston into the world's largest free museum! https://www.galvestonunscripted.com/

Support the show! Buy me a book! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/jrshaw409

Galveston Unscripted Digital Market: https://www.galvestonunscripted.com/store

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I sit down with Kyle O’Haver, Superintendent of Galveston Island State Park to discuss Galveston’s Coastal Ecology, Birding, Avian Migration, and Galveston’s balancing acre between conservation and economic expansion.

Kyle O’Haver is an avid birder, wildlife enthusiast, and has been with Texas Parks & Wildlife Department for over 16 years.

Galveston Island State Park: https://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/galveston-island

Watch this episode on YouTube: Coastal Conservation and Avian Migration at Galveston Island State Park with Kyle O’Haver
https://youtu.be/M5vc--aFWus

Subscribe to Galveston Unscripted on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts for more historical insights and stories from this remarkable island: https://www.galvestonunscripted.com/podcasts

Check out the podcast and audio tour that is transforming Galveston into the world's largest free museum! https://www.galvestonunscripted.com/

Support the show! Buy me a book! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/jrshaw409

Galveston Unscripted Digital Market: https://www.galvestonunscripted.com/store

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Bernard Cunningham Jr. is a Ball High and Prairie View A&M University Grad and currently works in architecture. He has had a hand in designing the potential Juneteenth Museum here on Galveston Island, which we discuss in this episode. 

Bernard's Article in The Daily News: https://www.galvnews.com/opinion/guest_columns/guest-commentary-juneteenth-museum-project-far-more-than-architecture/article_563a550e-d393-504f-b932-6bce3b4d961f.html

Check Out Bernard's apparel and clothing brand: https://www.instagram.com/bryte_apparel?igsh=MXEwaGJtbm8wbnBvcw==

Galveston Unscripted is your gateway to the heart and soul of Galveston, Texas. Dive into captivating tales of Galveston's history, explore the breathtaking stories, and discover the vibrant cultural gems of Galveston. Subscribe for engaging narratives, exclusive insights, and an immersive journey through the essence of Galveston, Texas. #GalvestonUnscripted #galvestonhistory #texashistory 

Subscribe to Galveston Unscripted on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts for more historical insights and stories from this remarkable island: https://www.galvestonunscripted.com/podcasts

Check out the podcast and audio tour that is transforming Galveston into the world's largest free museum! https://www.galvestonunscripted.com/

Support the show! Buy me a book! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/jrshaw409

Galveston Unscripted Digital Market: https://www.galvestonunscripted.com/store

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Watch this episode on YouTube:
https://youtu.be/AkEvK8AT3uI

I sit down with Sepp Haukebo and explore one of North America's only Native Caffeinated plants that can be found right here on Galveston Island. Yaupon Holly has been used as a stimulant for thousands of years in North America and Yaupon is making a comeback in the world of caffeinated beverages and products.

Information on Yaupon Holly: https://plants.usda.gov/DocumentLibrary/factsheet/pdf/fs_ilvo.pdf

Foraging Texas: https://www.foragingtexas.com/2008/08/yaupon-holly.html?m=1

Galveston Unscripted is your gateway to the heart and soul of Galveston, Texas. Dive into captivating tales of Galveston's history, explore the breathtaking stories, and discover the vibrant cultural gems of Galveston. Subscribe for engaging narratives, exclusive insights, and an immersive journey through the essence of Galveston, Texas. #GalvestonUnscripted #galvestonhistory #texashistory 

Subscribe to Galveston Unscripted on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts for more historical insights and stories from this remarkable island: https://www.galvestonunscripted.com/podcasts

Check out the podcast and audio tour that is transforming Galveston into the world's largest free museum! https://www.galvestonunscripted.com/

Support the show! Buy me a book! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/jrshaw409

Galveston Unscripted Digital Market: https://www.galvestonunscripted.com/store

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Watch this full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/hUIY1lq-jYQ

Galveston Unscripted Video on U Boats in the Gulf of Mexico: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3rLQODjyP8c

Galveston.com history video series: https://www.galveston.com/?s=Artifacts


Step back in time with George Osborne, our esteemed guest, whose rich tales from World War II-era Galveston weave a narrative that's as mesmerizing as it is educational. In our latest episode, George, a retired history teacher brings to life the island's 1940s landscape, marked by German U-boats prowling the Gulf of Mexico and the personal sagas of individuals Like Captain Gus Darnell.  With each story, George's deep personal links to the island and his experiences as a volunteer on the Elissa and a seasonal park ranger shine through, offering a uniquely intimate perspective on this pivotal moment in history.

Galveston Unscripted is your gateway to the heart and soul of Galveston, Texas. Dive into captivating tales of Galveston's history, explore the breathtaking stories, and discover the vibrant cultural gems of Galveston. Subscribe for engaging narratives, exclusive insights, and an immersive journey through the essence of Galveston, Texas. #GalvestonUnscripted #galvestonhistory #texashistory 

Subscribe to Galveston Unscripted on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts for more historical insights and stories from this remarkable island: https://www.galvestonunscripted.com/podcasts

Check out the podcast and audio tour that is transforming Galveston into the world's largest free museum! https://www.galvestonunscripted.com/

Support the show! Buy me a book! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/jrshaw409

Galveston Unscripted Digital Market: https://www.galvestonunscripted.com/store

Support the show

Galveston Unscripted Digital Market