The Texas Maritime Museum is proud to announce the award of a $1.8 million grant from the State of Texas, made possible through the support and advocacy of State Representative Todd Hunter and his staff. This funding marks a transformative milestone for the museum’s ongoing revitalization efforts following Hurricane Harvey.
“We are deeply grateful to Representative Hunter and the state for believing in the value of Texas maritime history and the museum’s role in preserving and sharing it,” said Michael Ables, Executive Director of the Texas Maritime Museum. “This grant is a powerful vote of confidence in our future—and it comes at a time when the museum is reimagining its role in our community, our region, and beyond.”
The grant will be used over the next two years to fund critical repairs and infrastructure improvements related to the devastation caused by Hurricane Harvey, as well as to support the development of new exhibits. These investments will directly contribute to increased tourism and economic impact for the Rockport area.
While this state support makes a significant impact, museum leaders note that additional funding is still needed to fully realize their broader vision. This includes further improvements to the building, expanding educational programming, developing interactive exhibits, and supporting day-to-day operations.
“This is a key milestone, but it’s not the finish line,” Ables continued. “We’re calling on our supporters—individuals, businesses, and community partners—to help us build on this momentum and make the Texas Maritime Museum a true cultural anchor for the Gulf Coast.”
The museum continues to raise funds through its ongoing membership campaign and is preparing for its signature winter fundraiser, The Maritime Ball, to be held in December. Community members can support the museum by donating, becoming a member, volunteering, or partnering through corporate sponsorships.
To learn more, contact the museum office for details on how to get involved at (361) 729-1271.
