The exhibit on Pullman Porters, on permanent exhibit at the Galveston Railroad Museum, stands as a tribute to Juneteenth. The extraordinary story of human resilience, tenacity, and fortitude laid the ground for future generations and had a profound impact on the railroad and American history.

Pullman Porters, primarily African American men, who served passengers aboard luxury railroad sleeping cars. The accompanying film documentary, Rising from the Rails, is a vivid example of the tenacity punishing working hours and conditions that led to the founding of the first African American union.

In addition to the oral history interview with Mr. George Lewis, the last Pullman Porter, the exhibit features founder of the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters, Asa Philip Randolph, who was an American labor unionist and civil rights activist. Under his leadership Congress amended the Railway Labor Act to specifically cover workers in sleeping cars and won a collective bargaining agreement and contract with Pullman that recognized the union, reduced porters’ monthly work hours and raised wages.

In addition to a display that includes porter uniforms and memorabilia, the film documentary titled Rising from the Rails runs throughout the day. A companion book written by NY Times bestselling author Larry Tye with the same title, Rising from the Rails, is available for purchase in the museum store.

An additional interview features Valida Breakfield, , who is the first African American, and one of the few female Amtrak engineers, who paved the way  for future generations to move through corporate ranks.

The Oral History Program is supported by the Dr. Leon Bromberg Charitable Trust.  For more information, or to watch the Oral History interviews,  go to www.GalvestonRRMuseum.org or call (409) 765-5700.

The Galveston Railroad Museum is open daily, 10 am – 5 pm. Parking is complimentary. Admission is Adults $12 Seniors $9  Kids 12 $6  3 & Under Free. Groups welcome.