About Us – Galveston Railroad Museum

Mission Statement

The Galveston Railroad Museum is dedicated to the restoration, observation, and re-use of its historic facilities and equipment for the development of educational and interactive programs, which support railroading and transportation initiatives serving our regional community.

Museum Staff

David Robertson, Executive Director

David is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the Galveston Railroad Museum. He has a deep understanding and knowledge of visitor experience, events, and the hospitality industry, specifically relating to Galveston. David attended Texas Wesleyan University in Fort Worth, Texas before moving to Galveston in 1996. His decades of experience are a boon to the museum.

Sam Christensen, Curator & Collections Manager

Sam is from Fairhope, Alabama and received a Master’s Degree in history and museum studies from the University of Delaware. He joined the Museum’s staff in July of 2017, and is responsible for managing and interpreting the Museum’s collection.

Crystal Lopez, Gift Shop Manager

Crystal originally started with the museum in November 2019 as a seasonal employee. She has quickly proven how indispensable she is and now manages the Gift Shop inside the museum.

Jackie Pierre, Internet Retail Manager

Jackie is one of our newest hires, and came highly recommended to the museum staff. Jackie has a deep knowledge of e-commerce and will be spearheading the museum’s new online store. We look forward to seeing the new website!

Ticket Agents: Jim Boone, Debbie Shephard

Maintenance, Repair, & Custodial: Ramon Coles, Kelly Carroll, Josh Gracia

Museum Board of Directors

Board of Directors

Ramiro Barba
Dr. John Bertini, Chairman
Dr. Stephen Duncan
Dr. Don Harper, Secretary
Patrick Henry
James McLean
Doug Poole, Vice Chairman
Ken Zimmern, Treasurer

Advisory Board Members

Joe Adams
Tommy Blackburn
Jimmy Carter
Sandi Cobb-Villeneuve
Tim Cooper
Harry Gendel
Joseph Maytum
Pete Messina
Vic Pierson
Greg Smith
Bobby Theriot
Toby Thorsen
John von Briesen
Dave Ward
George Williamson
Dr. John Worsham

Jobs Opportunities

Unfortunately, we have no job openings at this time, please check back soon.

Photography Policy

Guests of the Galveston Railroad Museum are welcomed and encouraged to take pictures of their visit to the museum, however, any professional photos or still shots involving models (such as engagement pictures, senior pictures, family photography, portfolios, etc…) are subject to the Photo Shoot Fees below. Any use of special photography equipment (tri-pods, lighting, props) will be subject to the Photo Shoot Fees.

Photo Shoot Fee: $50 for the first hour then 30 minute increments may be added for $25 each (minimum of 1 hour required). This fee includes admission for 1 photographer and up to 4 guests. Groups larger than this will need to pay additional admission fees.
Photo Shoot Reservation: Walk-in photoshoots are permitted, however, it is helpful for the museum staff to know when a photoshoot is expected. Museum staff can advise on large group or events occurring at the museum that may interfere with a photo shoot. Walk-in photoshoots must be checked into the museum by 3:45 pm.

Before/After Hours Photoshoots
All Photo Shoots before or after regular museum operating hours require reservations and are subject to the below fees.

6:00 am – 10:00 am: $125 per hour
5:00 pm – 7:00 pm: $125 per hour
7:00 pm to Midnight: $175 per hour

These fees include the usage of non-operating equipment in the rail yard only (no access to buildings)

Filming
All professional filming is subject to additional fees. Please submit the form on this page or call our Marketing Director, Jennifer Kelso, with all inquiries at 409-765-5700.

Commercial Photography: The Galveston Railroad Museum retains all rights to images of their museum, and does not allow images of the museum to be used in a for-profit venture. Images of the museum, rolling stock, artifacts, facilities, exhibits or visitors and employees may not be sold. The museum allows for professional photography intended for private use only.