2013-01-09 18:46:29 - Events such as this stimulate public appreciation of all that has made Palm Beach County what it is today and perpetuate the mission and programs of the Historical Society

PALM BEACH, Fla. – A great turn out set the festive mood at Club Colette in Palm Beach recently [December 13] during the annual Archival Evening to perpetuate the mission and programs of the Historical Society of Palm Beach County.

George G. Mathews and George J. Michel, Jr. were Honorary Chairmen for the evening, while Sonja and Mark Stevens served as Grand Corporate Chairs, and Karen and Dan Swanson along with Frances and Jeff Fisher were Archival Evening Chairs of this year’s leading benefit event for the non-profit organization. Jeffrey Sabean was Corporate Chairman. Also lending their support were Grand Corporate Benefactor PNC Wealth Management, Corporate Patron Tiffany & Co., and Corporate Sponsor Palm Beach Illustrated.

The elegant evening celebrated 75

years of preserving the county’s history as well as honored Alexander W. Dreyfoos, Jr., an American icon in business, culture and philanthropy. Among Dreyfoos’ most noteworthy local philanthropic achievements was the founding of the Palm Beach County Cultural Council and the Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts. He is further recognized for making a generous donation to a Florida public school, the Palm Beach School of the Arts, which was renamed the Dreyfoos School of the Arts.

Befitting the occasion, several students from the Dreyfoos School performed a song they dedicated to Alexander Dreyfoos. It was a story of his life with all of his wonderful accomplishments. In addition, guests dined and danced to the sounds of Euphoria, making the evening a particularly memorable one.

“Social events such as this one not only entertain community residents and visitors, but also stimulate public appreciation of all that has made Palm Beach County what it is today,” Karen Swanson noted.

Established in 1937, the Historical Society continues to collect, preserve and share the rich history and cultural heritage of the county. Among the Society’s programs is bringing local history to life for children in a relevant, engaging manner. This promotes social and intergenerational understanding, provides powerful intellectual inspiration, and helps children feel a sense of place and sense of pride about their heritage.

A “Museum Experience” is also offered to the general public, within a restored
1916 courthouse in downtown West Palm Beach, enabling the Society to weave the community into the fabric of daily life. Popular classroom programs on Florida History and History and Civics are provided by the Society to students in the 4th and 7th grades. The Society also offers educational programs within the community and at the Museum.

For further information about the Historical Society of Palm Beach County, please call (561) 832-4164.