A Letter From Our President & CEO | | |
In Defense of the Egg
“Put all your eggs in one basket and then watch that basket.” – Mark Twain
“A true friend is someone who thinks you are a good egg even though he knows you are slightly cracked.” – Bernard Meltzer
“If an egg is broken by outside force, life ends. If an egg is broken by inside force, life begins. Great things always begin from the inside.”
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Friends, today I rise—not in defense of some fragile notion of breakfast etiquette—but in defense of the humble, charming egg. That oval miracle, which looks so delicate in the carton, has kept civilizations nourished, puzzled poets, and inspired more breakfast menus than I dare count.
We’ve had a curious relationship with eggs in this country. Not long ago, we were urged to celebrate “the incredible, edible egg.” Then came the cholesterol scare, and folks eyed their omelets with suspicion. Now, science has circled back, and once again, the egg takes its rightful place on the breakfast table as a nutritional powerhouse. Especially those from true free-range hens, who spend their days basking in the sun and pecking at plants and bugs. Their yolks glow golden because they’re rich in vitamin D3, straight from nature’s lightbulb in the sky.
Even their storage habits are remarkable. In much of the world, unwashed eggs are safely stacked at room temperature, where they last weeks longer than most grocery shoppers would imagine. The shell, nature’s own Tupperware, does its job well—so long as we don’t meddle with it too much.
And let’s not forget the health benefits: those who enjoy free-range eggs savor not only richer flavors but also a cleaner conscience, knowing that their breakfast came from a chicken living a chicken’s proper life—scratching, strutting, and ruling the barnyard with authority. I can say this with some authority myself, having raised six chickens for five years. They were known affectionately as the Hogwarts Hens, each named after a heroine from the Harry Potter series according to the color of her plumage. I loved every feathered minute of it, and those hens taught me firsthand the joy of fresh eggs and barnyard theater.
Speaking of eggs, our museum will soon be crowned with a different kind altogether. On September 19th, the Elliott Museum will unveil Crowned in Jewels: The Imperial Fabergé Egg Collection—a dazzling display of over 50 meticulously crafted reproductions from artists around the globe. Each one tells a story of opulence, devotion, and the twilight of the Russian Empire. To sweeten the omelet, that same day marks the triumphant return of Wonderful Things… The Return of King Tut. Two world-class exhibits under one roof. These are, without question, very egg-citing days at the Historical Society of Martin County.
| | | Warmly (and historically yours), | |
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
| | | REALLY COOL UPCOMING EXHIBITS | | |
WONDERFUL THINGS...
The Return of King Tut
Step Into the Tomb…
Opening September 19, 2025, our main gallery will be transformed into a breathtaking recreation of one of the greatest archaeological discoveries in history — the tomb of Tutankhamun. Like Howard Carter peering into the boy king’s tomb in 1922, visitors will enter a mysterious, dimly lit chamber shimmering with gold, mystery, and wonder.
Come see what Carter saw. Enter the tomb. Discover the wonder!
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CROWNED IN JEWELS
The Fabergé Imperial Egg Collection
Opening September 19, 2025, a breathtaking exhibit featuring over 50 meticulously crafted replica Fabergé Imperial Eggs! Originally created between 1885 and 1916 for the Russian Imperial family, these eggs were more than Easter gifts—they were dazzling secrets wrapped in gold, enamel, and gems, each holding a hidden surprise inside.
Walk among royal wonders and uncover the magic hidden inside the eggs!
| | INCREDIBLE STORIES AND SO MUCH MORE! | | |
FRANCES LANGFORD
PERMANENT EXHIBIT
Julia Frances Langford was more than a generous philanthropist—she was a national treasure and a hometown hero whose legacy continues to inspire.
LEARN MORE
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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
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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
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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.
LEARN MORE
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WATERCOLOR GREETING CARDS WORKSHOP
Tuesday, Sep. 16 at 1PM
Watercolor Greeting Cards Workshop where you’ll paint, doodle, and design your very own hand-painted greeting cards.
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BOUNTIFUL BONSAI WORKSHOP
Tuesday, Sep. 23 at 2 PM
Create your very own living work of art—and all supplies are included! ONLY $40/Person
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THE SEARCH FOR, DISCOVERY & CLEARANCE OF TUTANKHAMUN’S TOMB
Friday, Sep. 26 at 1 PM
Join us for an extraordinary journey into one of history’s greatest archaeological adventures with author Michael J. Marfleet.
| | YOU CAN CHOOSE TODAY … OR TOMORROW! | | | | Today, in addition to your membership, you can financially support us through donations, our popular programs such as Adopt a Car, Buy a Brick, Adopt an Artifact or our prestigious Sustained Giving program, The Sterling Society. The Sterling Society provides significant and consistent funding to the Historical Society of Martin County (HSMC) over a five-year period with annual giving levels beginning at $2,500. This significant and consistent commitment provides funding that offers stability and an increased ability to forecast and plan for the future of the Elliott and The House of Refuge. And there are incredible benefits of Sterling Society Membership. | | Tomorrow you can support HSMC, The Elliott, and The House of Refuge by including HSMC in your estate planning. What a great way to support the museums you love with no financial outlay today! The HSMC Legacy Society offers you incredible benefits and an opportunity to make extraordinary, impactful gifts so that our treasured museums will continue to enrich, educate, entertain, and engage future generations. | | | |
“Someone is sitting in the shade today
because someone planted a tree a long time ago.”
Warren Buffett
Let’s talk soon … You are always welcome to contact me directly at 772.225.1961 x 110 or linda@hsmc-fl.com. If you’d like to spend time getting familiar with both programs in preparation for our conversation, please visit https://hsmc-fl.com/sterling-society/ and https://hsmc-fl.com/legacy-society/.
As always, we 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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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
| | LOOKING FOR AN EXTRAORDINARY VENUE SPACE? | | |
“Looking for an EXTRAORDINARY Venue Space for your Special Event?”
Look no further! Whether you are planning a large corporate reception or intimate association meeting, seminar, cocktail party, baby shower, birthday party, or even a wedding…. we have you covered for every occasion! The Elliott Museum is a truly unique space, and as we like to say, “we certainly have something for everyone.”
Your friends, family, valued clients, employees or colleagues will be ever so excited to experience and explore everything the Elliott Museum has to offer when you host your special occasion here.
We have a multitude of options for rental spaces at our facility with varying levels of capacity and pricing depending on the specific chosen space. You can find more information on our HSMC website here Facility Rentals - Historical Society of Martin County!
For facility rental inquiries, please contact me at 772.225.1961 ext 124 or gphillips@hsmc-fl.com. If you would like to explore the museum with me in person, let’s talk soon!
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Grace Phillips
Development Manager
Historical Society of Martin County
Elliott Museum
Gilbert's Bar House of Refuge Museum
P: (772) 225.1961 Ext. 125
E: gphillips@hsmc-fl.com
| | 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, Craig Bushman. | | |
CRAIG BUSHMAN
What did you do for a living in your career life?
I was a control room supervisor at the St. Lucie Nuclear Plant in Jensen Beach. I worked there for 32 years. I earned a Senior Reactor Operator License from the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission. I was responsible for the safe operation of the nuclear plant while I was on shift. I welcomed the immense technical challenge that the plant presented.
What are your special interests/passions?
I enjoy spending time hiking and traveling with Patty, my wife of almost 40 years. We have visited many national and state parks. I enjoy spending time with my 2 granddaughters. They are a lot of fun! I am a lifelong car enthusiast. I’ve repaired, rebuilt and restored many cars since my youth. This is why I volunteer in the Elliott Museum’s garage.
What is someting that would surprise us about you?
I have kissed the Blarney Stone!
What’s your favorite thing about volunteering at the HSMC?
My favorite thing about volunteering HSMC is the volunteers and staff. They are friendly, professional and have interesting life stories to share.
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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!
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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! | | |
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
| | | 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 Museum of Art - DeLand. | | | |
Recognized statewide by its peers for academic excellence and community outreach.
A vital and interactive 501 (c) 3 non-profit visual arts museum enriching the community through its dedication to the collection, preservation, study, exhibition and educational use of the fine arts.
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SEPTEMBER REFLECTIONS:
PRESERVING THE STORIES THAT SHAPE US
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As the school bells ring and routines resume, September reminds us how quickly time moves. Between carpools and calendars, it’s easy to overlook the quiet moments—the stories shared over dinner, the photos tucked in drawers, the letters that still carry the weight of a loved one’s voice.
But these fragments of memory are the heartbeat of our community’s history.
At the Historical Society of Martin County (HSMC), we believe that every family holds a piece of history’s puzzle. We’re actively working to fill in the blank spaces of our shared past and we need your help to do it. Whether it’s a photo of your great-grandmother’s garden, a video of your uncle’s boat launch, or the stories your grandpa told about what life was like when he was a kid here in South Florida; we want to see them.
We’ve added new areas on our website where you can easily contact us about your photographs, videos and other documents relating to living and working here in our community. Please feel free to email me any questions or ideas you may have.
Each submission goes through a thoughtful review process, ensuring your family’s legacy is preserved with care and respect. Selected items may be featured in our exhibits, archives, or digital collections—immortalizing your story in the museum for generations to come.
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We’re proud to collaborate with local institutions that share our mission:
- Stuart Heritage Museum – preserving the charm and grit of early Stuart
- Martin County Digital History – a participatory archive open to all
- St. Lucie County Regional History Center – celebrating the rich tapestry of St. Lucie’s past
Together, we’re building a more complete, inclusive record of life on the Treasure Coast.
Let this September be more than a return to routine. Let it be a return to remembering. Reach out to your loved ones. Ask the questions. Record the answers. And share them with us so that together, we can preserve the soul of Martin County.
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Jes Robinson
Creative & Collections Director
Historical Society of Martin County
Elliott Museum
Gilbert's Bar House of Refuge Museum
P: (772) 225.1961 Ext. 125
E: jrobinson@elliottmuseumfl.org
| | OUR FEATURED CAR OF THE MONTH. | | | | |
YOU HAVE TO COME AND SEE THIS BEAUTY!
We send our gratitude to Frank John for sharing his 1978 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL for our September featured car of the month - Designed by acclaimed French stylist Paul Bracq, the R107 SL Roadster boasts timeless lines that define automotive elegance.
Experience It in Person This September
Cruise into the Elliott Museum this September and get up close with this iconic piece of automotive heritage. The 1978 450 SL is more than just a car—it balances power, refinement, and style, capturing the very spirit of classic motoring.
| | 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 (09/13/25)
- INSIDE GARAGE TOURS every Thursday at 11 AM (Please call to confirm)
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TAKE A CRUISE in one of our classic cars (minimum donation required - FREE for The Sterling Society members)
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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
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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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EXPLORE THE WORLD WITH
THE MUSEUM TRAVEL ALLIANCE
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EXCLUSIVE MEMBER OPPORTUNITY
PARIS, FRANCE
Featuring an in-depth look at this pioneering American Impressionist, Mary Cassatt, who redefined women’s roles in the world of art.
MAY 8 - 15, 2026
Follow Mary Cassatt’s Parisian journey with art historian Jennifer Dasal, exploring private estates, behind-the-scenes museum tours, and hidden Impressionist haunts. Step inside Cassatt’s world—walk Montmartre’s studios and cafés, tour Monet’s gardens at Giverny, and enjoy exclusive after-hours access to the Musée Marmottan Monet. Along the way, meet curators, visit contemporary artists’ studios, and discover the Japanese prints that shaped Cassatt’s art.
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YOU HAVE SO MANY OPTIONS!
We look forward to seeing you on your next cultural journey!
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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
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THE FUN NEVER STOPS AT
THE ELLIOTT'S GIFT STORE
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The seasons may be changing...up north, but the fun never stops at the Elliott's Gift Store!
Our best-selling coffee mugs are flying off the shelves — they look just like vintage popular brand oil cans. Visitors can’t get enough of them! Get one before they sell out!
For something truly elegant, discover our stunning necklaces, each featuring a dazzling Imperial Fabergé egg pendant. After exploring our breathtaking Imperial Fabergé Egg Collection exhibit, you’ll find these pendants to be the perfect keepsake or gift — a way to carry a little piece of that timeless artistry home with you.
Whether you’re hunting for quirky conversation starters or something beautifully classic, The Elliott's Gift Store has the perfect fall gift waiting for you.
Stop by during your next visit to the Elliott Museum — you’ll be surprised at what you find!
| | WE CONTINUE TO MOVE FULL STEAM AHEAD! | | | | At the House of Refuge, we continue to move full steam ahead during this restoration period, finding new ways to share our story and keep our community connected. | | |
We are now on our fifth episode of Chronicles of a Restoration, created to keep our community apprised of all the exciting work being done by the master craftsmen of The Tradesmen Group. Each episode brings fresh perspective to the work underway, from porch wood removal to window restoration, and continues to remind us why the House is such a powerful symbol of endurance along our coast. You can find all episodes of Chronicles of a Restoration on our social media pages:
Facebook and Instagram at the links below:
We’ve also rolled out three exciting segments of A Keeper’s Minute, short videos designed to share fascinating pieces of our history, from shipwreck rescues to the lives of the Keepers who once watched these shores. These stories honor the past while connecting it to the present, ensuring our visitors and supporters feel the living pulse of the House even while the doors are closed for preservation.
DON'T HAVE A SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNT?
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Together, these efforts reflect the heart of what we do, protecting the House of Refuge as a historic beacon, while finding innovative and engaging ways to keep its story alive for our community and beyond. Rest assured, even though our doors are temporarily closed, we are working hard on exciting exhibits and preparing a reopening celebration for our 150th anniversary.
Warm regards,
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Catherine Larsen
Keeper of the House
Historical Society of Martin County
Elliott Museum
Gilbert's Bar House of Refuge Museum
P: (772) 225.1875
E: CLarsen@elliottmuseumfl.org
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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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Needles Meet Notes!
Sep 19, 2025, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
A healing journey through acupuncture points and vibrational sound. A fusion of acupuncture and sound for deep energetic harmony.
| | 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
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