• June 18, 2022
• 1:00 am

Galveston Railroad Museum Speaker Series Commemorates Juneteenth 

Legacy of the Railroad

Speaker George Lewis, Amtrak Porter

GALVESTON, TX -  The Galveston Railroad Museum will present the second speaker of the 2022 Oral History Program, Legacy of the Railroad, featuring Pullman Porter George Lewis, Saturday, June 18, 1 pm, at the train depot. The public is invited to attend. 

George Lewis had a front row seat to the Civil Rights Movement growing up in a railroad family, and specifically, how it impacted the future careers of Pullman Porters. American labor unionist and civil rights activist, A. Philip Randolph was made aware of the long working hours and low wages of Pullman Porters who were hired to serve while passengers aboard its luxury railroad sleeping cars. As a result, Randolph helped organize the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters, the nation’s first successful African American led Labor union. It was the first Black union to be chartered by the American Federation of Labor (AFL). A collective bargaining agreement and contract was signed with Pullman that recognized the union and reduced porters’ monthly work hours and raised wages.  

The Oral History Program is funded by the Dr. Leon Bromberg Charitable Trust Fund. 

Lewis Began his career with the Southern Pacific Railroad, which was sold to Denver Rio Grande Railroad and then to to Union Pacific . Amtrak acquired and retained the passenger service from Southern Pacific Railroad. George Lewis, like so many railroad employees, moved through the ranks prior to becoming a porter where he had the experience of meeting and serving numerous famous passengers, including President and Mrs. George H.W. Bush. 

Retiring in 2017, Lewis said, “I would do it all again, yes, I would.”         

George Lewis will speak at the Galveston Railroad Museum, Saturday, 1 pm,  to share his history with the railroad, experiences, and what it means to be a Pullman Porter. Reception to follow presentation. The museum currently has a Pullman Porter exhibit on view that relates the history, uniforms, photos and artifacts from this important part of American history.  

The Center for Transportation & Commerce, The Galveston Railroad Museum, is a 501 C3 non-profit organization 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. The is supported by admission, grants, special events, contributions and membership. To inquire about volunteer opportunities, go to the website or call the museum. 

 

Located at 2602 Santa Fe Place, the museum is open daily 10 am – 5 pm, and offers complimentary parking. Admission is Adults $12, Seniors $9, Students 12 yrs. and under $6, Under 3 free. Programs and admission are benefits of membership.  For additional information go to www.GalvestonRRMuseum.org or call 

(409) 765-5700.   ###

 

 

In observance of Juneteenth, the Board of Directors and Membership of the Galveston Railroad Museum proudly present and invite you to attend 

Legacy of the Railroad 

Oral History Presentation 

Mr. George Lewis 

‘My Experience as a Pullman Porter’ 

Saturday, June 18, 2022, 1 pm 

Train Depot 

2602 Santa Fe Place  

Reception to Follow * Complimentary Parking 

RSVP: mj@mjnpr.com (409) 762-3930  

GalvestonRRMuseum.org 

Legacy of the Railroad Oral History Program and 

Speaker Series 

Supported by  

Dr. Leon Bromberg Charitable Trust Fund