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Garten Verein History and Venue
Galveston Historical Foundation

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Transcript:
Garten Verein was established in 1876 by a group of German businessmen, initially established for the German immigrant population of Galveston, but had an open membership. The grounds of Garten Verein is where Kempner Park is located today.

The only surviving structure on the grounds after the 1900 storm is the 1880 Dancing Pavilion. This octagonal building is still a popular party and wedding venue. Before the devastation of the 1900 storm, Garten Verein enjoyed a clubhouse for gatherings, extravagant gardens, elaborate walkways, private dining rooms, a bowling alley, tennis courts, a croquet area, a bandstand for orchestra concerts, and a fountain with mini goldfish. Garten Verein was the first location in Galveston to install underground electricity, so the park was illuminated extravagantly at night. In 1923, Stanley Kempner bought the property and surrounding open space and opened it to the public.

Galvestonians have enjoyed Kempner Park as one of the city's most beautiful public gathering spaces for nearly a century. Kempner Park is a favorite stop for anyone looking to spot elusive migratory birds. Enjoy walking through Kempner Park, and watch out for squirrels. 

Key Words: Galveston, Texas, History, Island, Beach, cruise, cruise ship, vacation, Henry Rosenberg, Fountains, East End Historic District, Strand, Seawall, Bolivar, Houston, Audio Tour, Audio Guide, Free Tour, Free in Galveston, Grade Raising, civil engineering, first in Texas, German immigration, Garden Society, Kempner Park, 

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