A Letter From Our President & CEO | |
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“If you would keep your secret from an enemy, tell it not to a friend.” - Benjamin Franklin
“The severest test of character is not so much the ability to keep a secret as it is, when the secret is finally out, to refrain from disclosing that you knew it all along.” - Sydney Harris
“The quality of life is more important than life itself.” - Alexis Carrel
“Our job is improving the quality of life, not just delaying death.” - Robin Williams
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As my six-year anniversary as a happy resident of the nicest corner of Florida approaches, I am mindful of my sworn commitment to never reveal to another living person just what an amazing place the Treasure Coast is. It is abundantly clear that virtually everything about this area harkens back to a happier and calmer time in our history. A time when neighbors looked out for each other, and a time when people actually looked around and appreciated the beauty that surrounds them. A time when everyone took time to savor and enjoy a good song, a good meal, a kind word, and common courtesy. It seems the people who populate our community hold fast to many of these ideals, and so far, we are not populated by so many people that it requires them to be stacked up like cord wood. We are all informally duty-bound to never tell anybody just how wonderful it is here, to prevent hordes of covered wagons from coming here and staking claims. Recent events in the budgeting process of the State of Florida have drawn focus on something we may all have to do, in addition to keeping the location of our quiet paradise a secret.
Arts and Culture are irrefutably a cornerstone of any truly great place to live. I realize everyone has their own personal interests, and many people would not give a passing thought to the arts as long as they have a fish on the line, a tennis ball over the net, or a hole in one. Yet many of us find our personal refuge in the beauty and stimulation of a vibrant arts and culture community. For many years, the state has provided a minute slice of the annual budget in support of hundreds of vital and valiant non-profit organizations that bring a steady stream of artistic engagements to our area. Many of these dedicated organizations have been hard-hit by the budget cuts and are scrambling to continue to provide the opportunities that they have long provided to all of us. I urge everyone who is able to make whatever provision you can to help keep our beloved arts community strong. Please take a moment to make a contribution to help all of these organizations through these difficult days. Your gifts will go a long way to preserving a community that is indeed a secret worth keeping.
My best,
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Rob Steele
President & CEO
Historical Society of Martin County
Elliott Museum
Gilbert's Bar House of Refuge Museum
P: (772) 225-1961 Ext. 109
rsteele@hsmc-fl.com
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SURFING FLORIDA, a photographic history
Now through Aug 16, 2024
Showcasing the history of surfing in South Florida to include Images, videos, photographs, and the actual surf boards that were used.
LEARN MORE
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THE CAPTAIN'S CORNER
Now through Dec. 31, 2024
Patrick Armstrong and son began collecting Derek Jeter memorabilia since the early 1990’s commemorating Jeter’s unique baseball career.
LEARN MORE
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COASTAL VIBE
Now through Oct. 24, 2024
Explore the stunning local artwork that beautifully captures the essence of Florida Coastal Vibes.
LEARN MORE
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TESSELLATIONS
Now through Dec. 27, 2024
Tom Prestopnik’s artwork isn’t just for viewing, it’s an invitation to interact and interpret.
LEARN MORE
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THIS MONTH'S SPECIAL EVENTS & LECTURES | |
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TESSELLATIONS
Thu. Aug. 1 at 5:30PM
Join us for an immersive art experience where bold colors and large canvases draw you in!
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FLORIDA'S HIDDEN HISTORY
Wed. Aug. 7 at 3:00PM
Fascinating series of events exploring the rich and often overlooked history of Florida.
LEARN MORE
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TITANIC TALES
Thu. Aug. 22 at 3:00PM
Steve Mattis will share several fascinating facts about one of the most infamous voyages of modern history
LEARN MORE
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OBSERVE THE CREATIVE PROCESS
Sun. Aug. 11 at 1:00PM
More than 20 artists will be stationed throughout the Museum Sketch/Painting live in a diversity of mediums
LEARN MORE
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CLOSING NIGHT FOR SURFING FL EXHIBIT
Thu. Aug. 15 at 6:00PM
You won’t want to miss a great musical sendoff for the Elliott’s tribute to our local surfing history.
LEARN MORE
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MORE WISHES CROSSED OFF THE LIST! | |
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In May, I shared with you a few of the 24 items that were on our Wish List. I’m thrilled to report that because of your generosity, we were able to cross off five more wishes!
In the last two months, the Bea M. Rais Merkle Fund and the Freed Foundation Fund both at The Community Foundation of Martin County St Lucie provided funding for Mila Museum Walls and three mobility scooters at the Elliott and exterior didactics for the House of Refuge. The Horizon Foundation provided two secure display cases for the Elliott and Deb Duvall made all the men working in the garage extremely happy with new power equipment.
How wonderful that no one need wait a single moment to improve the world.
Anne Frank
Our world – and your world – has been improved by the generosity of these people. Sure, we still have items on our Wish List and I’ll share the list with you if you like, but please know how appreciative I am to be surrounded by such a caring, giving, and generous “family.”
As always, I truly appreciate your thoughtful consideration and continued support,
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Linda Prange
Vice President Development
Historical Society of Martin County
Elliott Museum
Gilbert's Bar House of Refuge Museum
P: (772) 225.1961 Ext. 110
E: linda@hsmc-fl.com
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THE BENEFITS OF BEING A MEMBER! | |
As a Family Level Member or higher, you have access to free or discounted admission to 134 museums in Florida alone with the NARM and SERM reciprocal benefits. One of the participating museums is the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium in Sanibel, Florida. | | |
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Passionate About Offering In-Depth Information On Local Shelling & Identification.
They also provide an exquisite variety of mollusks and exotic shells from around the world—many of which you most likely never knew existed!
They offer several temporary exhibits and more than 30 permanent exhibits, including the Great Hall of Shells which displays highlights of the Museum’s collection of some 550,000 shells. The Beyond Shells living gallery of aquariums displays over 60 species of marine life.
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There are many other creative ways to support the Elliott and House of refuge Museums that are fun and beneficial! Below are just a few opportunities. Check them out and call Linda at
(772) 225-1961 Ext. 110
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TRULY A UNIQUE VENUE TO HOST A SPECIAL EVENT | |
The Elliott Museum is a truly unique venue to host a most memorable special event, and an exciting backdrop to showcase your next private or corporate reception, meeting, seminar, or celebration. Individuals, businesses, civic groups as well as organizations may book event space for groups small or large. | |
I’m waiting to talk with you so I can help you plan an event you’ll enjoy and be proud of! Contact me today! | |
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Debbie Banta
Director of Engagement
Historical Society of Martin County
Elliott Museum
Gilbert's Bar House of Refuge Museum
P: (772) 225.1961 Ext. 124
E: dbanta@elliottmuseumfl.org
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ART & HISTORY COLLECTION CURATOR, CHESSY RICCA | |
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Bridges of all shapes and sizes stretch over the waterways of Martin County. Old, new, tall, small. Some bridges are around 100 years old! The Gaines-Annie bridge used to be the gateway to Indiantown but today it is a quaint foot bridge going over the South Fork of the St. Lucie. The bridge onto Hutchinson Island was a toll bridge. Most of the old bridges were either swing bridges or ferry rides. There was even a road named Bridge Road (in Hobe Sound). But why?
The one bridge in Hobe Sound takes you across the dredged intracoastal, onto the exclusive barrier island called Jupiter Island. Once there, you are immediately surrounded by the thick canopies of Ficus tress planted just after World War II by the Reed Family. If you head west back onto the mainland, Bridge road stretches over what used to be a massive slough.
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Chessy Ricca
Curator of Art & History Collection
Historical Society of Martin County
Elliott Museum
Gilbert's Bar House of Refuge Museum
P: (772) 225.1961 Ext. 125
C: (561) 308.8309
E: cricca@elliottmuseumfl.org
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FUN THINGS TO DO ON THOSE HOT DAYS!!!
Here are our routine fun car events for this month:
- Cars N Coffee on the second Saturday of the month (8/10/24)
- INSIDE Garage tours every Thursday at 11 AM (Please call to confirm)
Come and take a cruise in one of our classic cars
(minimum donation required except for Sterling members)
Use of the museum garage and tools.
You can bring your classic car or daily driver into our garage for simple repairs or maintenance (appointments only, donation required)
Come and see all our Collections from motorcycles, cars, and more!
Please don’t hesitate to contact us for any questions and note, some of our outdoor events will be canceled for lightning or steady rain. Please call before to confirm at (772) 225-1961
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Jim Ferrare
Car Curator
Historical Society of Martin County
Elliott Museum
Gilbert's Bar House of Refuge Museum
P: (772) 225.1961 Ext. 111
E: jferrare@elliottmuseumfl.org
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The Elliott Museum and the House of Refuge are blessed with a legion of vibrant and gifted volunteers from across the country who bring their own rich histories from all walks of life. The common thread among them is their shared passion for our museums, and their enthusiasm to make your visitor experience the best that it can be. Charlie is a volunteer in our garage where he gets to play with cars from our collection! | |
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CHARLIE ULRICH
What did you do for a living in your career life?
At the time of retirement I was Vice President of an oil and gas manufacturing company in Corpus Christi, Texas. Also a Commander in the Navy reserve as a ship salvage/diving officer.
What are your special interests/passions?
Besides the museum I am deeply involved in antique cars. At present I have 5.
What is something that would surprise us about you?
Sherry and I lived aboard our boat on the Caribbean for about 7 years.
What’s your favorite thing about volunteering at the HSMC?
Cars! Highlight was accompanying the museum’s Cunningham to a reunion in Greenwich, Connecticut. All of Briggs Cunningham’s 36 cars were there.
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Ales Day
Vice President Guest Experience
Historical Society of Martin County
Elliott Museum
Gilbert's Bar House of Refuge Museum
P: (772) 225-1961 Ext. 102
E: aday@elliottmuseumfl.org
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Fast Fact: When were the first electric cars manufactured?
Practical electric vehicles appeared during the 1890s but their high cost, low top speed, and short-range (compared to internal combustion engine vehicles) led to a worldwide decline in their use as private motor vehicles. Source: Wikipedia
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GET YOUR DREAM TRAVEL FOR 2025 | |
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Oaxaca, Mexico City & Puebla: Ancient to Contemporary Art & Architecture
Jan 12 2025 - Jan 19 2025
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Epic Journey Across Time: Cyprus, Rhodes & Turkey's Lycian Coast Aboard Emerald Azzurra
Apr 9 2025 - Apr 18 2025
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Turkey to Greece: Heroes, Saints & Emperors Aboard Emerald Azzurra
Apr 16 2025 - Apr 26 2025
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Timeless Islands of the Mediterranean: Valletta to Genoa Aboard Sea Cloud II
Oct 10 2025 - Oct 20 2025
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YOU HAVE SO MANY OPTIONS!
Explore more exciting adventures that come with knowledgeable guides who bring each trip to life with education and engaging stories. Whether you're looking for relaxation, adventure, culture, or education, MTA has the perfect trip for you!
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Museum Travel Alliance (MTA) is a consortium of more than 115 museums who offer travel to museum members only, so you can enjoy cultural travel world wide. As a member of the Historical Society of Martin County, YOU choose your destination, YOU choose when to travel, YOU can travel with friends you’ve made on previous Elliott Cruises, and YOU can meet new friends from all over the globe.
Here are a few other Museum members of MTA
The Ringling in Sarasota
Frost Museum in Miami
Lowe Museum at UMiami
The Harn Museum in Gainesville
The Cummer in Jacksonville
The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York
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We are aligning with our cool exhibit, Surfing Florida, A Photographic History. Come on in and browse our fun surfing gift items. It makes the perfect gift for any occasion! We also have Jewelry, notecards, soaps, clothes, original art and so much more waiting for you. You’ll be amazed with the variety and quality! AND members receive 10% off purchases.
Shop today at the Elliott and at the House of Refuge!
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WE NEED VOLUNTEERS FOR THE HOUSE OF REFUGE! | | |
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EVERY WEEK AT THE ELLIOTT:
Tune Up Tuesday: Weekly at 2 PM
Wednesday SoundWaves: Weekly at 6 PM
Saturday Sound Healing: Weekly at 6 PM
Sound Healing Sunday: Weekly at 2 PM
Deena Rahill: Certified Sound Practitioner and Founder of Sound Vibrational Healing. Find out more about sound healing, upcoming events, and what Deena does to make you feel refreshed and relaxed.
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Lion's Gate
Activation Portal
The Lion’s Gate Portal occurs when the star Fixed Star Sirius, Earth and the Orion constellation are all aligned in the sky.
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Speaking to Heaven with Joseph LoBrutto
Witness Joseph’s outstanding demonstration of his Evidential Mediumship style as often seen on TV!
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August Sturgeon
Full Moon
Join me for a powerful Sound Vibrational Journey during the Sturgeon Full Moon!
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PHILLY DOWN SOUTH - AT THE TIKI HUT | |
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CHECK OUT OUR
LIVE MUSIC!
Every Friday and Saturday Night
from 6 to 9 PM
Jam Session every Tuesday Night
from 6 to 9 PM
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