Before and after: Two historical Galveston homes undergo amazing transformations

3608 Avenue O, Before

This home, built in 1913, was rehabilitated by Michael and Ashley Cordray, who purchased the home in 2015. 3608 Avenue O, Before

This home, built in 1913, was rehabilitated by Michael and Ashley Cordray, who purchased the home in 2015. Photo: Galveston Historical Foundation Photo: Galveston Historical Foundation Image 1 of / 56 Caption Close Before and after: Two historical Galveston homes undergo amazing transformations 1 / 56 Back to Gallery

Among several Galveston home projects receiving awards in October are two that have undergone incredible transformations, trading boarded-up windows for gorgeous interiors that pay tribute to the properties' history.

The Galveston Historical Foundation's Sally Wallace Preservation Awards are open to Galveston County projects that preserve, restore and enhance the county's historic buildings and neighborhoods.

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Every year, the public submits nominations in six categories: rehabilitation, stewardship, new construction/infill, green revival and crafstmanship.

The two homes pictured above have been selected as the 2017 winners in the rehabilitation category.

3608 Avenue O

This property dates back to 1913 and was built by railroad engineer John T. Gilbert. Michael and Ashley Cordray purchased the home in 2015, saving it from demolition.

The rehabilitated home features modern updates, but retains Victorian aspects such as the asymmetrical design, gabled attic window, diamond glass and turned columns.

In 2017, the home was designated as a City of Galveston Historic Landmark.

1509 Mechanic

This property was built in 1854 by German immigrant Ernest Seiling and has a two-story addition that was built in 1885.

Joan and Melody Oelze purchased the property in 2013, and it is under review to become a City of Galveston Historic Landmark.

The current owners repaired the home's foundation and windows, and used period-appropriate materials. To reconstruct the porch railings, the Oelzes used historical photos of the property as a guide.

For more information on the Sally Wallace Preservation Awards and to see the winners in the other five categories for 2017, click here.