Boddeker House
Galveston, Galveston County, Texas
Marker Inscription
Boddeker House The son of German immigrants, Joseph Boddeker came to Galveston with his parents about 1850. After service in the Civil War, he worked as a riverboat pilot and purchased this lot for his family home in the 1870s. When the original Boddeker House was destroyed in the 1900 storm, Capt. Boddeker purchased and relocated this 1893 house from 12th and Sealy. His son James (1875-1940), who lived here with his wife, Elizabeth, was a successful businessman and civic leader, serving as county commissioner from 1912 until 1940. Upon his death, Elizabeth completed his term as commissioner, becoming the first woman in Galveston County to hold that post. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 2001
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Joseph Boddeker, son of German immigrants, came to Galveston around 1850, served in the Civil War, and worked as a riverboat pilot before buying this lot in the 1870s. After the catastrophic 1900 storm destroyed the family's first house, he relocated an 1893 house here. His son James served as county commissioner from 1912 until his death in 1940, and his widow Elizabeth completed the term to become the first woman in Galveston County to hold that office.
Why it matters
The Boddeker family's story links German immigration, the 1900 Galveston hurricane, and an early milestone for women in local public office.
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Related people
- · Joseph Boddeker
- · James Boddeker
- · Elizabeth Boddeker
Related events
- · 1900 Galveston hurricane
Themes & tags
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