Last weekend’s fire at the historic George Ball House has left Galveston residents heartbroken—and reflecting on the city’s long, fiery past. The 168-year-old structure suffered extreme damage, echoing a lesser-known but far more destructive fire in 1885 that destroyed 40 blocks of the East End.
A fire that ravaged the 168-year-old George Ball House last weekend has evoked both grief and profound contemplation in Galveston—a city renowned for its historic architecture and rich heritage. As fire marshals evaluate the damage, described by one official as “extreme,” numerous residents are making comparisons to a previous blaze that once left a lasting mark on the island: the devastating East End fire of 1885.
The George Ball House, an impressive Victorian-era building located on 24th Street, was among three historic residences affected by the recent fire. Officials are optimistic about the possibility of saving the mansion, as structural evaluations are still forthcoming. This incident has brought back memories of Galveston's other significant fire, which has often been eclipsed by the Great Storm of 1900.
The earlier fire broke out in the early hours of November 13, 1885, at the Vulcan Iron Works foundry. The fire rapidly and uncontrollably spread, driven by fierce north winds and a dense cluster of wooden homes and buildings. Within a matter of hours, over 500 structures—grand estates, commercial properties, and humble residences—were turned to ash. Approximately 100 acres and 40 blocks of the East End were devastated, resulting in more than 2,000 families without homes.
In spite of the extensive devastation, there was only one reported indirect death—an elderly man who is thought to have suffered a heart attack amidst the turmoil. The extent of the damage was significant enough to draw national attention. Days later, The New York Times captured the scene, depicting citizens gathered in the cold, powerless as flames consumed their homes.
Today, almost 140 years later, the George Ball House fire serves as a poignant reminder of history's fragility and the resilient spirit of Galveston. As the community gears up for the forthcoming Historic Homes Tour, the incident highlights the significance of safeguarding and cherishing the city’s invaluable heritage.
