Page 33 - Ma 2023 Galveston Monthly

quarters above an extra-large two-car garage. The realty firm is noted for not only selling many
Located at 1917 Postoffice Street, the U.S. Customs House residential historical properties but also many historical
is ideally situated within a short walking distance to the commercial properties.
Grand 1894 Opera House, numerous restaurants and retail Tramonte’s extensive knowledge of the local real estate
shops, art galleries, and charming antique stores. market and dedication to his clients make him the perfect
agent to handle this unique and historic property. Owning
a new cHapteR Is wRItten and living in one of the oldest buildings on Galveston Island
The Customs House has a fascinating history, having been is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and Tramonte can help
under federal ownership from 1861 until it was sold almost make that dream a reality.
150 years later. During the Civil War, it was occupied by This remarkable property is ideally located and offers a
the Confederate Army, and in 1865, it was the site of the unique combination of historical charm and modern luxury,
ceremony that officially ended the war in Galveston. he said.
In 1999, the Galveston Historical Foundation (GHF) “It’s still an office designed concept that GHF and DSW
signed a long-term lease with the U.S. General Services Homes used, but there are a variety of other uses available.
Administration to use the Customs House as its One mentioned quite often by prospective buyers has
headquarters and began a $1.5 million major renovation been to develop into a boutique-type hotel and condos,”
project on it. The GHF purchased the property in late 2009. Tramonte said.
The property was later sold to DSW Homes, one of the “The extra added value to this unique listing is that you not
premier experts in the disaster recovery industry, and which only get the Customs House building and its grounds but
helps communities, including Galveston, recover in the also the two lots at 1916 Church Street (10,000 square feet)
wake of natural disasters. with the two-car garage and efficiency apartment; plenty of
The Customs House is a significant landmark in Galveston, room for additional parking.”
and GHF remained dedicated to its preservation and Tramonte said it’s a building like no other, and those who
stewardship. have vision and dreams have an opportunity to turn them
“Joe Tramonte Realty had the original listing with the GHF into a reality.
when one of my agents, Hudson Holmes, sold it to DSW “It offers the continued usage of a 160-plus-year-old
Homes,” said Tramonte, who was born and raised on the building that has weathered major hurricanes throughout
island by parents who were also native Galvestonians. its history but remains as one of the most beautiful, well-
“Once I learned DSW Homes had recently vacated the built structures on Galveston Island.”
building, I contacted them to offer my real estate services. I The property is currently listed at $2,400,000. For more
received the listing and am very honored to be selected as information contact vJ Tramonte at 409.765.9837 or visit
the listing agent.” www.tramonterealty.com. GM

MAY 2023 | GALVESTON MONTHLY | 33