Why I Believe in Galveston: A “Realistic” Love Letter to the Island
Discover the Untold Stories Behind Iconic Moments
This isn’t a postcard. It’s not polished or perfect. It’s just an honest reflection on a place I’ve spent my life coming back to—physically, emotionally, and in memory.
Galveston has a hold on me. It’s complicated, beautiful, stubborn, soulful—never quite what you expect, but always exactly what you need.
Over the years, this island has shaped who I am. My wife Christy and I have built memories here, raised dreams here, and watched the community come together in ways that defy explanation. That’s why we created The 1839—not as a news site, but as a love letter. A place to honor Galveston’s past, reflect its present, and help shape its future through stories that feel real, grounded, and true.
At the 1839, we believe you should have choices in how you consume your news and entertainment, so we offer you four options on learning more about this topic. Pick the one that appeals to you the most, and then be sure and follow us on social media to let us know what you think in our online forums.
Watch Video
Short Read
Listen to Audio
Share on Social
Prefer to watch instead?
Not in the mood to read the whole thing? That’s okay.
This short video isn’t a retelling of the article—it’s a visual reflection. A few quiet, coastal moments that capture why sea turtles—and this island—mean so much to me.
It’s not about facts or stats. It’s about feeling. About seeing Galveston the way I see it: a place where nature still speaks, if we’re willing to slow down and listen.
— David Landriault
Podcast: Voices from the Past
Prefer to Listen
Here’s an audio version of the story, read in my own words. Whether you’re on a walk, driving, or just taking a moment, I hope you enjoy it!
TL;DR Section
Galveston isn’t perfect—but it’s home. I was born here, raised nearby, and some of my best memories live on its beaches, in its bars, and along its seawall.
- The people here are fiercely loyal and show up when it matters most.
- Resilience is in the island’s DNA—we rise, rebuild, and somehow do it with style.
- Our food, culture, and spirit deserve more than passing coverage.
- That’s why we built The 1839—to tell the stories that make this place unforgettable.
→ Read the full piece for memories, meaning, and why Galveston still matters.
— David Landriault
The Real Galveston Story Begins Here
Why I Believe in Galveston: A “Realistic” Love Letter to the Island
An honest reflection on memory, place, and why Galveston still matters—to me, and maybe to you too. ~ David Landriault
Ask anyone who loves Galveston what makes this island special, and you’ll get a million different answers, all of them genuine, each one worth printing. For me, Galveston is more than a place. It’s a feeling. A rhythm. A stubborn, salt-breezed spirit that never quits. And if you know, you know.
That’s what we want to bring you with The 1839. Those stories that are authentically Galveston and that you won’t find anywhere else except maybe on the front porch of your neighbor’s house after a couple of bourbons and a long talk about the weather.
You may be asking why we created an online site dedicated to everything Galveston. The world is a big place, so why only focus on Galveston you may ask? There are so many things about Galveston that are truly unique and deserve recognition but may get lost in the shuffle of the everyday. I can’t tell you why you should love Galveston. Again, there are a million answers, and all of them are right. All I can tell you is why my wife Christy and I love Galveston.
One of the things that is so special about Galveston is its people—fiercely loyal, unexpectedly artistic, and relentlessly supportive. You don’t truly understand community until you’ve seen the way this island comes together after a crisis. After Hurricane Ike, there were no divisions—just neighbors helping neighbors, businesses donating what they could, and strangers becoming family overnight. That’s Galveston. We fight like cats and dogs when things are good, but we show up for each other when we’re needed. Always have. Always will.
Before I continue, I do have to apologize for the biggest misstep of my life. While I was born in Galveston I was not raised here. My family chose to live in nearby Texas City, much to my disappointment as a child.
Don’t get me wrong, I love the mainland too, but growing up, all of our most important moments as a family were spent in Galveston, and the city is very special to us. I grew up on every inch of its waters fishing on my dad’s boat, and on East beach with my sister and cousins, and with my childhood friends as we attempted to surf near the Pleasure Pier.
When I was older, I spent time “cruising” the seawall in my 77 Corvette with some of my best friends, creating moments we all still remember fondly. As a young adult I spent many many hours in Yaga’s and other bars watching live music and trying (and failing) to look cool drinking Red Stripes. I went on my first date with my wife in Galveston and later married her here. Over the years I have made so many priceless memories that connect my heart to this island. I think that is why I have spent most of my career trying to advance Galveston businesses and helping the city itself to become a place we all will continue to love for generations.
Another thing that I believe has not gotten enough attention is the food. I spent my entire life frequenting Galveston restaurants with my family and friends, and the cuisine here is truly unique and special. That’s why we’ll be covering it through the 1839 and highlighting outstanding restaurants, dishes, and chefs.
There is so much more that we cannot wait to share with you. Galveston is an island of unlimited possibilities. There’s a certain magic here, a belief that no matter what your background is or how crazy your dream sounds, you can make it happen.
“We fight like cats and dogs when things are good, but we show up for each other when we’re needed. Always have. Always will.”
Of course, it doesn’t hurt that we’ve got the beach. I’ve walked that seawall more times than I can count—sometimes with purpose, sometimes just to clear my head. There’s something about the waves crashing and the smell of salt that resets you. And somehow, it’s never the same beach twice. One morning, you’ll see dolphins chasing shrimp boats. Another day, a couple saying “I do” in the sand. It’s a living, breathing postcard.
But what really stuns me—still, after all these years—is Galveston’s resilience. This city has been knocked down more times than most, and every single time, we get back up. Stronger. Smarter. And usually with a little more style. The history of this island isn’t just in our museums and architecture (although, hello, they’re amazing). It’s in every shiplap board, every creaky floorboard, every family name that’s been here for generations, and every new person who makes memories here. We carry our past like a badge of honor—but we’re never stuck in it.
And then there’s the best surprise: the businesses. Galveston may be a small island, but it punches way above its weight when it comes to creativity and entrepreneurship. From world-class seafood restaurants to the best healthcare around, the island is bursting with bold ideas and passionate people. I’m constantly amazed by what’s being dreamed up here—and even more excited about what’s coming next.
I am not an endless dreamer with stars in my eyes. I know that Galveston has serious problems, but I am confident that if we continue to work together, we can overcome them. We just need to extend the spirit of cooperation we have when things are bad into the good times and address the issues we are facing head-on.
I am confident we can do that because of the quality of people we have here who want what is best for the Island. We will be highlighting them through our magazine and we ask that you participate as we build a better future.
That’s why my wife and I started The 1839. Because Galveston deserves a platform that matches its energy. A place to tell our stories, spotlight our leaders, support our businesses, and—most importantly—believe in our future. This is the island that made me. This is the community I’m proud to serve. And this is just the beginning. So whether you’re new to town or have saltwater in your veins, welcome to The 1839. We built this for you.
Sincerely and with all humility,
David Landriault
Founder of The 1839
David Landriault
Founder of The 1839
David is the co-founder (alongside his brilliant, infinitely patient wife Christy) of The 1839 and Falcontail Marketing & Design — two ventures built on storytelling, strategy, and an almost obsessive love for community.
At Falcontail, David has quietly helped shape the marketing presence of organizations ranging from Stanford University to local legends like Sunflower Bakery & Café. He’s known for turning big, messy ideas into sharp, strategic campaigns — the kind that move people, not just pixels.
He’s been called a creative powerhouse, a strategic Swiss Army knife, and the guy who always ‘has a guy’ for everything. But despite his track record, David avoids the spotlight, preferring to elevate others, solve impossible problems, and deliver dad jokes with unnerving confidence. His work is serious. He just refuses to take himself too seriously.
Join the Conversation on Facebook
See the Pretty Pics and Video on IG
Get Involved with The 1839 by Getting in Touch
Sign Up for Our Newsletter and Stay on the Inside