Handcrafted Tribute Honors Civic Leader Kempner

A handcrafted wooden model of Galveston’s historic tall ship Elissa is set to become a permanent exhibit at the Rosenberg Library Museum. This installation will pay tribute to the ship’s maritime legacy as well as to the contributions of longtime civic leader Harris L. “Shrub” Kempner.

Officials at the library have announced that a detailed model of the three-masted sailing vessel from 1877 is currently under construction. The library will place the finished model on long-term public display. A donation from Balmorhea Ranches, Inc. has provided funding for the project, which is associated with the library’s forthcoming maritime exhibit.

The Elissa stands out among contemporary tall ships as an original iron-hulled vessel, a rare remnant of the concluding years of the Age of Sail. The ship continues to stand as one of Galveston's most iconic historic symbols.

In a statement, Rosenberg Library Board President Dancie Ware emphasized that the model stands as a testament to Kempner’s extensive leadership and dedication to the institution over the years.

In a statement, Ware expressed the Board of Trustees' privilege and honor in presenting a model of the tall ship Elissa as a tribute to esteemed Trustee Emeritus, Harris L. ‘Shrub’ Kempner. He commended Kempner for his exemplary leadership and dedication.

Generations of the Kempner family have played a significant role in supporting the library and preservation initiatives throughout Galveston Island, according to Ware. “Their most recent contribution is a lasting testament to the family’s shared reverence for history, preservation, and community,” she stated.

Dominic Zachorne, a ship modeler from Rhode Island, is currently working on the construction of the piece. The library building will soon feature an addition to its collection of historic ship models.

Library Interim Executive Director Jay Sims expressed gratitude to numerous longtime Elissa supporters who played a significant role in the project's success.

“The Rosenberg Library expresses gratitude to four dedicated Elissa enthusiasts who have played crucial roles in the development of this model,” stated Sims, acknowledging Zachorne, Paulie Gaido, Michael Creamer, and Kurt Voss.

Upon completion, the model will be showcased in the library’s second-floor Sandy’s Room, a serene reading area honoring Lt. Marion Lee “Sandy” Kempner, the second son of Harris and Ruth Kempner. Sandy Kempner lost his life in combat during the Vietnam War in November 1966. The room, donated to the library by the Kempner family in 1967, features a portrait by Texas artist Robert Joy and includes books from Sandy’s personal collection.

The announcement follows Elissa's preparations for a national appearance scheduled for later this year. The ship is set to begin a multi-month voyage along the East Coast, marking an important moment in the Sail250 initiative, which celebrates the 250th anniversary of the United States. The upcoming voyage is set to conclude with a significant appearance on July 4 in New York Harbor, signifying the vessel’s first return to the iconic location since the centennial celebration of the Statue of Liberty in 1986.

Library officials announced that the new model is set to enhance the museum’s maritime offerings and strengthen Galveston’s long-standing commitment to preservation and public service.