The New Location at Magale; Courtesy GRCC

GALVESTON — The Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce is establishing a permanent home in Galveston’s historic Strand district after purchasing space in one of the island’s longtime commercial landmarks.

The chamber announced it has purchased the first floor of the historic Magale Building at 2313 Strand, marking the first time in its 181-year history that the organization will own its own office space after decades of leasing.

Located in the Strand National Historic Landmark District, the new home places the chamber in the heart of the area long considered the birthplace of Texas commerce.

Officials said the first-floor space was purchased from McLeod Properties, which has owned the building for the past 50 years.

The new location will house staff offices, a boardroom for meetings and training, and the Galveston Visitors Center operated by the Park Board.

Renovations are expected to begin in the coming months, with completion currently projected for January 2027.

The chamber said it plans to move into the new offices later that month, with a grand opening celebration scheduled for Feb. 3, 2027 — the anniversary of the signing of its original Articles of Incorporation during the Republic of Texas era.

The organization, founded in 1845, is recognized as the oldest chamber of commerce in Texas.