Murdoch’s Bathhouse has been a Galveston landmark since the late 19th century. During the month of July, Rosenberg Library will display several items related to this island institution. Among these will be historic photos, tickets, and other souvenirs.

The original Murdoch’s Bathhouse opened in Galveston during the late 19th century. Located directly on the beach near the foot of 23rd Street, Murdoch’s offered bathing suit rentals, changing rooms, and shower facilities. Because Galveston lacked a seawall at the time, the beachside structure was completely destroyed by the Great Storm of 1900.

By February 1901, proprietor George Murdoch had rebuilt the bathhouse at the same site. According to an interview with the Galveston Daily News in January 1901, Murdoch said that he believed Galveston’s recovery would be dependent upon its future as a tourist destination. Establishments such as his bathhouse attracted visitors to the island during the summer season and helped boost the local economy.

Unfortunately, just eight years later, another powerful hurricane struck the Gulf Coast and destroyed the bathhouse. In 1911, a new and improved Murdoch’s opened at a cost of $35,000 (nearly $1 million in today’s dollars). The bathhouse stood upon 160 10”x10” wood piles and was designed to withstand hurricanes. It featured 542 rooms with separate changing areas for men and women. A promenade deck on top of the building offered excellent views of the Gulf of Mexico and could accommodate up to 2,000 guests for special events.

In addition, the bathhouse featured a life-saving station for emergencies.  This more substantial facility allowed for independent businesses to operate within Murdoch’s.  One such enterprise was a souvenir and gift shop managed by William Guyette, whose descendants became the owners of Murdoch’s bathhouse for several generations.  The first Gaido’s restaurant was also located inside Murdoch’s.

Sadly, the improved construction was not a match for the devastating hurricane that hit Galveston a few years later in 1915.  However, Murdoch’s was rebuilt once again in 1916, this time with its floor raised ten feet above the seawall.  The facility was expanded to accommodate 1,000 bathers.

Over the years, Murdoch’s evolved to meet the changing needs of its customers.  When bathing suit rentals and changing rooms were no longer in demand, Murdoch’s began selling refreshments, beach supplies, and tourist souvenirs.

The 1916 Murdoch’s bathhouse continued to stand strong until Hurricane Carla in 1961.  As with the previous storms, it was reconstructed.  Most recently, Murdoch’s was destroyed by Hurricane Ike in 2008.   The Galveston landmark was rebuilt and reopened its doors to visitors once again.  The iconic structure is a symbol of Galveston’s resilience and willingness to weather storms for well over a century.  It remains a popular destination for island tourists.

Murdochs is located at 2215 Seawall Blvd and is home to the Galveston.com Murdochs Webcam.