First celebrated in Galveston in 1867, Mardi Gras began as a traditional religious festival and quickly evolved into an annual party.

Name File- Lucy Dean Haden

By 1871, two organizations, the Knights of Myth and Knights of Momus vied with one another to create the most lavish and successful celebration. In 1914, the Kotton Karnival Kids [known informally as "KKK"] were in change of the festivities, and only a snowfall and cancellation of the annual parade could damper the spirits of the celebration.

The Kids continued sponsoring the festival's concerts and balls until through the 1920s, changing to the Mystic Merry Makers in 1923. In 1928, the cost of running Mardi Gras caused the group to discontinue sponsorship.

Name File- Cecile Kempner

In 1929, the Galveston Booster Club took over sponsorship, and after merging with the exsisting Galveston Chamber of Commerce in 1938, continued sponsoring the festival until 1953 when Mardi Gas was no longer held on the island. Galveston native George P. Mitchell and his wife Cynthia revived Mardi Gras in 1985 by hosting a city-wide celebration. Galveston continues to celebrate Mardi Gras to the present day.

Begin Exhibit

Mardi Gras in the 1930s

Junior Mardi Gras

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