A Letter From Our President & CEO

“Exceed your customer’s expectations. If you do, they’ll come back over and over. Give them what they want – and a little more.” - Alice Walton

“Some people say, ‘Give the customers what they want.’ Our job is to figure out what they’re going to want before they do.” - Walter Isaacson



“You can’t just ask customers what they want and then try to give that to them. By the time you get it built, they’ll want something new.” - Steve Jobs

INCREDIBLE EXHIBITS AND SO MUCH MORE!

WONDERFUL THINGS...THE RETURN OF KING TUT

Now through Apr. 30, 2026

Step into a breathtaking exhibition featuring spectacular replicas of prized artifacts from the tomb of Tutankhamun, one of the greatest archaeological discoveries in history. Included in this exhibition is our AI Avatar Howard Carter.

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THE FABERGÉ IMPERIAL EGG COLLECTION

Now through Apr. 30, 2026



A breathtaking exhibit featuring over 50 meticulously crafted replica Fabergé Imperial Eggs with dazzling secrets wrapped in gold, enamel, and gems, holding a hidden surprise inside.

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THE HIGHWAYMEN

Now through April 30, 2026

Featuring over 60 original paintings from the private collection of Roger Lightle, Highwaymen Art Specialists, Inc.

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WHEELS OF CHANGE

PERMANENT EXHIBIT

Experience a fully mechanized, robotic car storage-and-retrieval marvel. Originally an industrial innovation, now dramatically reimagined inside the Elliott Museum.

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EXTRAORDINARY EVENTS

SUNDAY CONCERT SERIES
PIANIST GREGORY HARTMANN

Sunday, Feb 1  |  3:00PM - 4:30PM

Prepare for an afternoon of expressive brilliance as the Elliott’s Sunday Concert Series welcomes Gregory Hartmann, a rising star whose performances have captivated audiences across America and Europe. With remarkable sensitivity, power, and poise, Hartmann brings classical masterpieces to life in an intimate setting designed to let every note resonate.

This is the kind of performance that stays with you long after the final chord fades.

UNIQUE & THRILLING LECTURES

THE WONDERFUL WORLD OF PENGUINS: STORIES FROM BEHIND THE LENS

Monday, February 23 | 1:00 – 2:00 PM

Step into the icy, playful, and surprisingly charismatic world of penguins with international photographer Gary Krosin. Drawing from his travels across the globe, Gary shares stunning close-up photographs that capture penguins in moments of curiosity, humor, and resilience! His images are only possible through patience, passion, and time spent behind the lens.

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MYSTERIES OF TUTANKHAMUN’S TOMB

Friday, Feb. 6, 2026 | 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM

What secrets did the Boy King take to the grave? Join Michael Marfleet for a riveting dive into the lingering mysteries, myths, and marvels surrounding Tutankhamun’s tomb.

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THE ORIGINS OF THE HIGHWAYMEN MOVEMENT

Wednesday, Feb 18 | 2:00pm – 3:00pm

Go behind the scenes of the Highwaymen exhibit with Roger Lightle, one of the foremost experts on Florida’s legendary Highwaymen artists.

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THE WRECK OF THE 1715 TREASURE FLEET

and the real pirates of the Caribbean

Thursday, Feb 26th, 2026 | 1pm – 2pm

Join us for an exciting and informative lecture as Al Simbritz dives into the fascinating history behind the wreck of the 1715 Spanish treasure fleet that gave the Treasure Coast its name. Explore the true story of the Caribbean pirates who flocked to the Florida shores to “fish the wrecks” for treasure, and discover the untold stories of those perilous times.

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ENGAGING WORKSHOPS

BREAKFAST CLUB: WATERCOLOR & CARD MAKING WORKSHOP

Thursday, Feb 12 | 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Love is in the air… and so is the smell of DOUBLE CHOCOLATE POUND CAKE. Join Debbie Roberts for a sweet, creative morning where you’ll paint, sip, savor, and make beautiful Valentine keepsakes...all before lunch!

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ALL DAY PLEINAIR PAINTING WORKSHOP WITH MARY LOU PULTS

Monday, Feb. 16 | 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Join award-winning plein air artist Mary Lou Pults for a FULL-DAY, skill-boosting painting workshop designed to help you paint with confidence and expression. Perfect timing tp prepare for our Coastal Colors Paint Out in April.

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THE ELLIOTT IS A MUSEUM FOR ALL

At the Elliott, we believe that art, history, and culture should be welcoming and accessible to everyone. That’s why we are proud to offer a variety of programs and free services designed to ensure all visitors can fully enjoy their experience.

Through Museums for All, we welcome individuals and families who receive SNAP benefits by offering reduced or free admission, helping remove financial barriers to museum visits. In addition, our partnership with Wheel the World makes it easier for visitors with disabilities to plan ahead, providing detailed accessibility information so guests know what to expect before they arrive.

We also offer several free on-site services to enhance every visit. Complimentary audio guides are available in four languages, English, Spanish, German, and French allowing visitors from around the world to explore our exhibits at their own pace. For guests who need mobility assistance, mobility scooters are available at no cost, ensuring comfort and ease while navigating the Elliott.

These programs and services reflect our ongoing commitment to inclusion, access, and hospitality. We look forward to welcoming you and sharing everything the Elliott offers.

If you have questions, suggestions or ideas how we can be better, please contact me directly at 772.225.1961 ext 110 or email: linda@hsmc-fl.com.

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

NEVER A DULL MOMENT AT THE ELLIOTT

As many of our members know, we like to keep things dynamic and extraordinary around here at the Elliott Museum. From engaging talks about King Tut to whimsical Eat Cake & Create Workshops, there is never a dull moment here!

With that said, we are always looking for interesting people to provide lectures and creative artists to teach workshops. If you or someone you know may be searching for a place to share a unique skill or fascitinating story, please reach out to me today!

Lastly, don't forget that we have beautiful venue spaces for every special occasion.



We are here to help bring your visions to life!

THE BENEFITS OF BEING A MEMBER!

What an amazing January Member Mixer!

So many laughs, great conversations, new friendships formed, and wonderful reunions with familiar faces.

Our February Mixer is underway so GET READY for our MARCH Members-Only Mixer!

Our Members-Only Mixers are part of an exclusive, year-long series of intimate gatherings designed to connect, inspire and express our gratitude.

GAMES & GUINESS

Friday, March 13 | 5:00 – 8:00 PM

Think fast and laugh faster at Trivia Night, Games & Guinness at the Elliott Museum!

Enjoy a spirited, after-hours evening of clever trivia, friendly competition, and St. Paddy’s cheer, plus a chance to win a raffle prize.

Good fun. Great company. A little Irish luck.

RSVP by March 6, 2026.

We look forward to welcoming you at our next Member Mixer!

WHAT? YOU'RE NOT A MEMBER?

No worries—there’s still time to join the fun!

Our friendly Front Desk team would love to help you become part of the experience.



Call us at 772-225-1961

Email: membership@hsmc-fl.com

MORE 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 Morean Arts Center in St. Petersburg.

WE LOVE OUR DOCENTS (AND YOU WILL TOO!)

This Valentine’s season, we’re celebrating the heart of the Elliott Museum, our incredible docents. When you book a guided group tour, you’re not just visiting galleries, you’re experiencing the museum through the passion, knowledge, and care of volunteers who truly love what they do. Our docents are the best of the best, and they take pride in making every tour engaging, thoughtful, and memorable.

From the wonder and mystery of Wonderful Things: The Return of King Tut, to the powerful stories behind the Florida Highwaymen in Highwaymen: From Street Corner to the Smithsonian, to the sparkle, craftsmanship, and elegance of the Imperial Fabergé Egg Collection, our docents bring each exhibition to life with insight, enthusiasm, and plenty of memorable moments. Whether you’re planning an outing for a condo association or HOA, social club, school group, or community group, a guided tour adds that extra something you’ll absolutely fall for.

Group tours of 10 or more receive discounted admission, making it an easy and meaningful way to plan a group outing. For details or to book your tour, please contact Victoria McAteer, Operations Manager. I’d love to help you plan a visit you’ll adore!

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, Debbie Cooper.

DEBBIE COOPER

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

I worked for the Department of Defense in Cleveland OH for 31 years. I finished my career as a Personnel Director/Training Director responsible for over 2000 employees nationwide.



What are your special interests/passions?

I love to travel. My husband, Fred, and I have been lucky enough to travel to Australia, New Zealand, the Alpine countries, the Scandinavian countries, Italy, Greece, Iceland and so many locations in the US. My new passion is painting. Maybe you’ll see one of my paintings in the museum!

What is someting that would surprise us about you?

I rode down the Grand Canyon on a mule, even though I had never ridden a four- legged animal previously.

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

The staff at the museum is the best and just like family. And, it is so wonderful to see visitors, especially first-timers, get so excited about OUR museum. I love telling people about all of our treasures.

FEBRUARY, A PERSONAL MILESTONE

February marks a personal milestone for me: two years at the Historical Society of Martin County. It is hard to believe how quickly time moves when the days are filled with stories, objects, and people who care deeply about preserving this place.

Winter remains our busiest season, and the museum has been alive with activity. The Audubon of Martin County exhibition continues in the lower east gallery, while the Martin Artisans Guild Open Studio Preview Show will bring fresh energy and creativity into the Elliott on Feb 5th. For visitors who have not been here recently, the museum truly feels like a brand-new place, with evolving exhibits and deeper storytelling throughout.

Behind the scenes, I continue a comprehensive inventory of the collection, working closely with volunteers to document and better understand the objects and books entrusted to our care. This work is foundational and ensures that the stories we share are grounded in thoughtful stewardship and accuracy.

As early settler Homer Hine Stuart Jr. reminded us through his writings, the river connected people long before modern roads did. That sense of connection guides my work every day.

Thank you for being part of this shared history. I look forward to what comes next.

OUR FEATURED CAR OF THE MONTH.

FEBRUARY'S FEATURED CAR OF THE MONTH - GENE BARNES' 1963 CORVETTE COUPE

Meet Gene Barnes 1963 Corvette Coupe! It isn’t just a classic, it’s a moment when American automotive design changed forever. This is the legendary Split-Window Sting Ray, produced for one year only, instantly recognizable by its dramatic divided rear window and razor-sharp lines. Inspired by racing yachts and fighter jets, the ’63 Coupe introduced a bold new vision: low, aggressive, and unapologetically modern.

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 and friends out and about! JOIN US...

• CARS N COFFEE on the second Saturday of the month (02/14/2026)
• 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

EXPLORE THE WORLD WITH

THE MTA BY ARRANGEMENTS ABROAD

SEOUL & JEJU ISLAND, SOUTH KOREA

From Ancient Traditions to Contemporary Art

October 13 – 24, 2026

Join Asian art scholar Chris Noey for a thrilling, exclusive cultural journey to Seoul and Jeju Island, contrasting destinations that showcase South Korea’s distinctive traditions alongside contemporary innovations.

YOU HAVE SO MANY OPTIONS!

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

Museum Travel Alliance (MTA) by Arrangements Abroad, 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 by Arrangements Abroad

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

NO FLURRIES! JUST FUN!

AT THE ELLIOTT'S GIFT STORE

We have NO FLURRIES...JUST FUN!!! AND it never stops at the Elliott's Gift Store!

Browse unique gifts, coastal treasures, and museum must-haves at the Elliott Museum Gift Shop. Discover a thoughtfully curated collection of one-of-a-kind, artful finds that celebrate the season! From vibrant Home Grown artwork by talented local artists to whimsical, charming gifts perfect for every taste. There’s something special here to spark joy and take home a piece of the museum experience.

Stop by during your next visit to the Elliott Museum, you’ll be surprised at what you find!

THE TRANSFORMATION OF THE HOUSE OF REFUGE

Restoration is moving steadily forward, anticipation is building, and spring promises a powerful new chapter filled with immersive exhibits, breathtaking art, renewed spaces, and unforgettable moments by the sea.

From a monumental new mural and storm-filled storytelling to fresh galleries, community programs, and meaningful ways to be part of our future—this is a moment worth watching closely.

If you would like to learn more about becoming a docent, lecturer, or workshop artist, please reach out to us at 772-225-1875 or email clarsen@elliottmuseumfl.org.

Warm regards,

MINDFULNESS CORNER

Spirit Speaks/Valentine Special: Beth Lynch Medium

Friday, Feb 13 at 6 pm

Beth Lynch returns to explore more about life, death, and the in-between as she channels spirits to convey their messages for you.

Acupuncture & sound healing

Friday, Feb 20 at 6 pm

A healing journey through acupuncture points and vibrational sound. A fusion of acupuncture and sound for deep energetic harmony.

GREAT BITES AT PHILLY DOWN SOUTH TIKI BAR

WORKED UP AN APPETITE AFTER EXPLORING THE MUSEUM?

Head over to Philly Down South Tiki Bar, just a short stroll away! Keep the good vibes going with great food, refreshing drinks, and a laid-back outdoor atmosphere.