Rob Giardinelli
Highly Revered Museum In Texas Highlights The Best Of The State’s History
By Rob Giardinelli Photography by: Dave Rossman
THE SCENE: The Bryan Museum in Galveston was the setting for the city’s most anticipated and successful fundraising gala of the year. A sold-out crowd of over 500 of the area’s most notable community leaders, sociables, and philanthropists turned out for the 10th Annual Bryan Museum Gala. With a Wildcatter’s theme, the crowd came to play, and the result was a record-breaking night for the organization.
and Dancie Ware
THE VIBE: The black-tie with a country twist crowd featured an elegant mix of traditional black-tie fare that seamlessly blended with bright colors, prints, metallics, Texas ties, cowboy boots, and cowboy hats. The result was a festive environment where everyone was treated like family.
and Lindsay Holstead
The night kicked off with a VIP reception where guests had the opportunity to meet the iconic Billy Bob Thornton, star of the hit Paramount Plus show Landman. Revelers then had the chance to commemorate the evening with an elaborate Boomtown building façade, which provided the perfect backdrop for taking a photo to mark the occasion.
The party continued with a lively cocktail hour, where, after grabbing their favorite spirit of choice, attendees mingled and enjoyed the museum’s notable collection, including the much-talked-about Kermit Oliver & Hermes: Storytelling on Silk and Canvas. Guests also browsed the impressive selection of silent auction items, bidding on a variety of luxury goods and experiences. All of this was done against the backdrop of live music courtesy of Libby Koch.
and Courtney Hopson
Revelers then took to their seats for the main program. As diners enjoyed their delectable, multi-course meals catered by Culinaire Catering, they were treated to words from organization and event leaders, including J.P. Bryan. Next, an array of oil and gas legends critical to the industry’s success in Galveston, Texas, and beyond including Ernie H. Cockrell, Mary Ralph Lowe, Trevor Rees-Jones, and the families of Eddy C. Scurlock and R.E. “Bob” smith were honored with the Bryan Museum History Medal of Honor that was created specifically for the evening.
Randolph Holford led a spirited live auction where paddles feverishly went up an array of once-in-a-lifetime experiences. The most popular items of the night included a San Miguel de Allende villa getaway, a trip to Croatia, and a 2026 American Friends of Versailles Gala Experience.
The night was capped off with an epic performance. Billy Bob Thornton and The Boxmasters took to the stage for a show-stopping performance that brought the crowd to their feet, ending the night on a high note.
THE NON-PROFIT: The 2025 Wildcatter’s Gala, co-chaired by Dancie and Jim Ware and Renee and Scott Rice, raised a record-breaking $1.3 million for The Bryan Museum. Proceeds raised from the event will support educational and outreach initiatives at the museum.
