Name the Reddish Egret: Galveston’s Washed Ashore Conservation Sculpture

Washed Ashore is a non-profit organization in Oregon that transforms ocean plastic pollution into large sculptures. Through art and education, Washed Ashore raises awareness of marine debris's impact on sea life and inspires communities to take action. Local artist Evan McClimans created the Reddish Egret sculpture, with the support of the Galveston Park Board, as part of Washed Ashore's pilot residency program. Evan used marine debris from the Galveston Island beachfront in the construction of the sculpture.

This Reddish Egret sculpture highlights how wading birds like egrets are vulnerable to pollution, especially abandoned fishing line. Discarded monofilament can entangle birds, leading to serious injury or death. Visitors are encouraged to recycle fishing line at one of Galveston’s 43 collection tubes to help protect local wildlife.

Now, we need your help to name the sculpture! Each name honors an influential woman in Galveston’s history:

Magnolia Jane
Inspired by the Magnolia League, symbolizing Southern grace, resilience, and Texas pride.

Miss Bettie
Inspired by Bettie Brown, the bold heiress who helped shape Galveston’s rich cultural life.

Gerty of the Gulf
Inspired by Gertrude “Gerty” LeClaire, an educator and suffragist who championed public education and women’s rights.

Rosanna
Inspired by Rosanna Osterman, a philanthropist and nurse who cared for the sick during Galveston’s yellow fever outbreaks.

Maude
Inspired by Maude Jeannie Young, Texas' first state botanist and a pioneer in environmental education.

Alva
Inspired by Alva Ellisor, one of North America’s first female stratigraphers, who advanced Gulf Coast geology and conservation.

Jessie McTide
Inspired by Jessie McGuire Dent, a prominent Black educator and civil rights activist who fought for equal pay and educational equity in Galveston.