A Letter From Our President & CEO

“Those who do not know history are doomed to repeat it.” - Edmund Burke

“At its best, preservation engages the past in a conversation with the present over a mutual concern for the future.” - William Murtagh

“We are not makers of history. We are made by history.” - Martin Luther King, Jr.

It’s like having a miniature museum in your pocket — minus the security guard who eyes you suspiciously.

Thanks to the collaboration of insightful organizations — including the Historical Society of Martin County, the Black Heritage Initiative, Stuart Heritage, and many others — and the benevolent funding from ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act), Impact100 Martin, and the Library Cooperative Grant Program, this archive is living proof that government, philanthropy, and heart can actually share a dinner table.

Whether you’re a lifelong local reminiscing about the old icehouse on Confusion Corner or a newly arrived resident wondering what your backyard looked like before the screen porch, you’ll find your place in our past. And in case you're wondering what all the fuss looks like, take a gander at the July issue:

Now, if you’re the sort who believes that preserving history is just as important as making it (and we hope you are), we invite you to be part of the story. The Historical Society of Martin County is proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with MDH (Martin Digital History), and we encourage you to join us. By any measure, this initiative is crucial to the integrity of our community. After all, the past isn’t going to preserve itself.

Warmly (and historically yours),

REALLY COOL EXHIBITS

THE FIRST MUSEUM-BASED SYSTEM OF ITS KIND IN THE U.S.!

ELLIOTT MUSEUM'S "BOOMERANG" CAR RACKING SYSTEM

Experience a fully mechanized, robotic car storage-and-retrieval marvel—originally an industrial innovation, now dramatically reimagined inside the Elliott Museum. This three-story, climate‑controlled system dynamically showcases 50+ classic and antique automobiles, bringing them forward at the touch of a button.

It's not just for storage—it’s a showcase attraction!

NEW PERMANENT EXHIBIT ANNOUNCEMENT

FRANCES LANGFORD, LEGENDARY, AMERICA'S SWEETHEART!

Julia Frances Langford was far more than a generous philanthropist—she was a national treasure and a hometown hero whose legacy continues to inspire. The Elliott Museum is home to a curated collection of her memorabilia, Hollywood costumes, records, photographs, and personal items—a tribute to a woman whose talents and compassion knew no bounds.

We are forever grateful for her generous spirit.

LEARN MORE

INCREDIBLE STORIES AND SO MUCH MORE!

UFOS DENIAL-DISCLOSURE-DISCERNMENT

ENDING Aug 31, 2025



Venture through decades of secrecy, where government agencies have concealed evidence and sightings have been dismissed.

LEARN MORE

THE CAPTAIN'S CORNER

Now through Dec. 31, 2025



Patrick Armstrong and son began collecting Derek Jeter memorabilia since the early 1990’s commemorating Jeter’s unique baseball career.

LEARN MORE

ROGER VAIL PAINTINGS

PERMANENT EXHIBIT

We are honored to be the stewards of eight extraordinary paintings that stood out immediately when we began inventorying our collection.

LEARN MORE

GRUMMAN'S LEGACY

PERMANENT EXHIBIT

From the F-14 Tomcat to community impact, Grumman’s legacy lives on in Martin County. Discover how Plant 77 and Witham Field helped shape aerospace history and local life.

LEARN MORE

WELCOME GRACE PHILLIPS TO HSMC!

Please join me in welcoming Grace Phillips to our HSMC family!

Monday, July 7^th, Grace joined us as Development Manager, and I couldn’t be more pleased, proud and excited. For the past four years she has been an Executive Development Manager at Carr, Riggs & Ingram (CRI), a Top 25 nationally ranked accounting and advisory firm with a location in downtown Stuart.

Grace’s responsibilities include Elliott facility rentals, developing relationships with condo and homeowner’s associations, creating and developing lectures/workshops/classes, facilitating corporate events, securing sponsorships and managing current revenue generating programs and creating new ones.

Her responsibilities are all encompassing and varied, but as she and I will tell you, nothing is more important than the relationships we have with you. You make the difference every day and Grace and I are here for you.



Excitement abounds at the Elliott, and I invite you to experience, explore and enjoy it every day! When you visit, please let me know, because I’d love the opportunity to introduce you to Grace ... You’ll understand very quickly why I’m so pleased, proud and excited, she is part of our HSMC family!

Contact me anytime directly at 772.225.1961 ext 110 or email: linda@hsmc-fl.com. Of course, I always prefer talking with you in person ... Let’s make it happen soon!

As always, I truly appreciate your thoughtful consideration and continued support,

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

RENT A VENUE WITH A "WOW!" FACTOR

The Elliott Museum has 50,000 sq’ of WOW! and offers a truly unique setting for your special event!

Unlike any other museum, experience, explore and enjoy the Elliott for its:

• Renowned Car Gallery with 50+ vintage autos/trucks/motorcycles
• The only three-tier car racking system in the United States
• 5,000 sq’ of changing premier exhibit space
• Exhibit of The Ashley Gang, local bad boys in the ‘20s, who robbed the Stuart Bank twice
• Seminole Tribe and other local history
• 1880’s General Store featuring a Soda Fountain, Post Office, Classroom and more
• Baseball Gallery second only to Cooperstown because the Elliott has more than 200 signed baseball cards
• Walls and walls of outstanding local art throughout both floors of the Elliott
• Popular and affordable Gift Shop
• And so much more!

When you host your event at the Elliott, all of it can be available to you and your guests. So, whether you’re planning a small or large private or corporate reception, meeting, seminar, cocktail party, birthday party, or celebration, you’ll want to contact us soon.

Catering and full beverage service including beer, wine and alcohol are available exclusively through Philly Down South at the Elliott, our in-house full-service restaurant and catering service.

To check date availability and for more information, please contact me at 772.225.1961 ext 124 or gphillips@hsmc-fl.com. If you’d like to meet, walk the Elliott and see your options, let’s talk soon!

VOLUNTEER HIGHLIGHTS

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. This month’s Volunteer Spotlight shines the light on our beloved volunteer, Jack Chayet.

JACK CHAYET

What did you do for a living in your career life?

I was in the fashion business for 40 years involved with manufacturing women's shoes in Italy.



What are your special interests/passions?

My special interests are raising money for our veterans, softball & boating.

What is someting that would surprise us about you?

I am a great dancer.

What’s your favorite thing about volunteering at the HSMC?

My favorite part of volunteering is that I am allowed to tell my stories in my own way not reading from a script. I've been telling the stories for 12 years now and most of the guests seem to like it.

CALLING ALL VOLUNTEERS

Join the Heartbeat of Historical Society of Martin County!

Our amazing volunteers bring history, art, and culture to life—creating exciting and enriching experiences for our visitors every day! Whether you love engaging with guests, or assisting behind the scenes, there’s a place for you on our team. From customer service to special programs, your passion and enthusiasm make all the difference!

Ready to be part of something special?

JOIN OUR VOLUNTEER FAMILY TODAY!

BIG NEWS AT THE ELLIOTT MUSEUM!

We now offer our GUIDE ID Audio tours in FOUR languages:

English | French | Spanish | German

Whether you're visiting from across the globe or just brushing up on a second language, your museum experience just got a major upgrade!

So, What is Guide ID?

It’s our super cool handheld audio guide device that lets you explore the museum at your own pace. With 33 stops throughout the museum, it shares stories, facts, and insights you won’t find on the display labels.

How does it work?

Just point and listen! Aim the device at the marked exhibits and it will instantly play the audio—like magic!

Want to try it?

Just ask for a Guide ID at the front desk when you arrive!

EXPLORE | LISTEN | LEARN - in your language!

Thank you for your continued support!

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 Cultural Council for Palm Beach County.

MY GOAL - COMPLETE AN AMBITIOUS INVENTORY

Every August I celebrate just a little because it’s about halfway through the dog days of summer (the extended-cut FL version). Once school starts up, it’s a fast rush towards Halloween and the culmination of all this summer’s carefully laid plans. This fall we have Wonderful Things going on here at The Elliott. Two immense exhibits opening in September, an exclusive movie premiere alongside Roger Lightle’s Highwaymen exhibit in November and as a mental respite from the heat, we are already planning for the Annual Christmas Party...

OUR FEATURED CAR OF THE MONTH.

YOU HAVE TO COME AND SEE THIS!

1974 Jaguar XKE Roadster – A Timeless Icon of British Elegance

If you're a car lover, this one’s for you! This month, we’re proud to feature a true classic — the 1974 Jaguar XKE Roadster, finished in a striking light royal blue with a luxurious tan leather interior. This beauty isn’t just a car — it’s a statement.



Renowned for its sleek lines, powerful V12 engine, and smooth handling, the XKE (also known as the E-Type) is often called one of the most beautiful cars ever made — even Enzo Ferrari said so.

Whether you're a lifelong Jaguar fan or just love great design and craftsmanship, this roadster is a must-see.

If you would like to feature your car in our museum for the car of the month please contact Jim Ferrare at 305-878-7795.

Here are a few ideas to get the family or friends out and about! JOIN US...

• CARS N COFFEE on the second Saturday of the month (08/09/25)
• INSIDE GARAGE TOURS every Thursday at 11 AM (Please call to confirm)
• TAKE A CRUISE in one of our classic cars (minimum donation required - FREE for The Sterling Society members)
• FIX THAT OLD CAR TAKING UP SPACE! 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)
• SEE OUR EVER GROWING COLLECTIONS from motorcycles, cars, bicycles, plane 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

EXPLORE THE WORLD WITH

THE MUSEUM TRAVEL ALLIANCE

EXCLUSIVE MEMBER OPPORTUNITY

MEXICO CITY

Featuring Zona Maco & Art Week Mexico City

FEBRUARY 2 - 8, 2026

With Platinum Passes to Zona Maco, Latin America’s premier art event, enjoy the most exclusive access to private previews and collector circles. Beyond the exhibits, your journey will be a curated immersion into one of the world’s most creatively charged cities. You’re specially invited inside the homes and studios of some of Mexico City’s revered artists and collectors—with some tantalizing surprises.

Mexico City is one of the world’s museum capitals. Experience it firsthand with specially arranged tours —spaces are limited!

YOU HAVE SO MANY OPTIONS!

We look forward to seeing you on your next elegant cultural journey!

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

PLEASE WELCOME OUR NEW ASSISTANT KEEPER OF THE HOUSE

We are thrilled to announce that Lindsay Famiglietti has joined our team as the new Assistant Keeper of the House, working alongside Assistant Keeper Kenda Bedford and Keeper of the House Catherine Larsen. Lindsay brings enthusiasm, dedication, and a deep respect for our mission of preserving and sharing the remarkable history of the House of Refuge. Please join us in giving her a warm welcome as she settles into her new role!

We’re also excited to share that The Tradesmen Group have started restoration as of July 21, a day we have all been eagerly awaiting. Their work marks a major milestone in our commitment to caring for this historic treasure.

And keep an eye out for Chronicles of a Restoration: The House of Refuge, where Keeper Catherine Larsen puts her nose under the tent to highlight the craftsmanship, stories, and behind-the-scenes work that will ensure our House stands strong for generations to come.

Welcome, Lindsay, and welcome to all who continue to support the House of Refuge as we embark on this important next chapter!

MINDFULNESS CORNER

PHILLY DOWN SOUTH - AT THE TIKI HUT

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