Events in October 2019–March 2020
- Reception: One Half of the People: Advancing Equality for Women
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Reception: One Half of the People: Advancing Equality for WomenCelebrating the 100th anniversary of the 19th amendment to the Constitution that gave U.S. women the right to vote, this exhibit explores how those before us obtained the rights and privileges of citizenship promised to women today. Visitors will explore: 1) how a diverse group of suffragists fought for more than 70 years using many different strategies; 2) how women continued to seek equality after the 19th Amendment; and 3) profiles on eleven women and how they lived and worked, pushing boundaries of what was accepted and expected of women.
Click here for more information.
- Closing of One Half of the People: Advancing Equality for WomenClosing of One Half of the People: Advancing Equality for Women
Celebrating the 100th anniversary of the 19th amendment to the Constitution that gave U.S. women the right to vote, this exhibit explores how those before us obtained the rights and privileges of citizenship promised to women today. Visitors will explore: 1) how a diverse group of suffragists fought for more than 70 years using many different strategies; 2) how women continued to seek equality after the 19th Amendment; and 3) profiles on eleven women and how they lived and worked, pushing boundaries of what was accepted and expected of women.
Click here for more information.
Annual Harvest Festival & Scarecrow Contest–
Annual Harvest Festival & Scarecrow ContestThe Historical Society of Palm Beach County Presents the Annual Scarecrow Festival & Contest
Click here for more information.
- Reception: Becoming West Palm Beach: Celebrating 125 YearsReception: Becoming West Palm Beach: Celebrating 125 Years
“A stretch of the whitest of white sand, two lines of steel rails, a few acres of pineapples, a couple of houses and ‘scrub’ on every side! This was West Palm Beach in September 1894.” -From The Lake Worth Historian, 1896.
The City of West Palm Beach was incorporated in 1894. As a promising metropolitan city, West Palm Beach grew from a small ‘scrub’ town into an alluring city for tourism and residents. To celebrate the 125th anniversary, the Historical Society of Palm Beach County has developed an exhibit in their temporary gallery to highlight many of the triumphs and trials that have made West Palm Beach what it is and continues to become.
Click here for more information.
Using primary and secondary sources, the exhibit looks at the growth of West Palm Beach as neighborhoods began to develop. West Palm Beach expanded because of the diverse history of the people, businesses, and amusements. This exhibit describes how West Palm Beach grew into a metropolis where people live, work, and play in paradise.
- Lecture
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LectureDistinguished Lecture Series
Dr. Taylor Hagood, Professor of American Literature and Director of the Study of the Americas Initiative, Florida Atlantic University
“Zora Neale Hurston: Writer of Palm Beach County and Florida”
Recognized as one of the greatest novelists in American literary history, particularly on the Harlem Renaissance, Zora Neale Hurston has entranced countless readers with daring, beautiful prose that explores the intricacies of voice in narrative. Hurston grew up in the all-African American town of Eatonville, Florida, and spent many years in Palm Beach County. Having studied under the great anthropologist, Franz Boas, at Barnard College, Hurston researched and wrote about timber camps in north Florida, voodoo culture in Haiti, and agriculture in the Everglades. She blended her research personal experience with a never-failing eye for meaningful detail. Hagood will discuss Hurston’s life, including her time in Belle Glade, and her works, from the obscure to her greatest and most famous book, Their Eyes Were Watching God.
Hagood has published six books and over forty articles in the field of American literature, including Secrecy, Magic, and the One-Act Play of Harlem Renaissance Women Writers, which includes extensive commentary on Zora Neale Hurston. His book Faulkner, Writer of Disability, won the prestigious C. Hugh Holman Award for best book in Southern Literary Studies.
- Walking Tour
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Walking TourTake a step back in time on our Historical Walking Tours! The Historical Society of Palm Beach County will host Downtown West Palm Beach History Strolls led by architect and historian Rick Gonzalez of REG Architects. The one-hour guided tour showcases the evolution of downtown West Palm Beach buildings and landmarks and includes an historical urban design overview through recent area development. The tours have been organized each season since the development of CityPlace, West Palm Beach.
Tours begin at 10am at the Green Market, $10 per person. Call 561.832.4164 ext. 100 for more information or to reserve your spot.
The Historic Walking tour is sponsored by REG Architects.
- Adult Mock TrialAdult Mock Trial
Join us for an unforgettable evening crossing traditional theater with modern-day law. Ever wonder what it’s like to be part of a scandalous trial of Palm Beach’s rich and famous? Step into the inspirational 1916 Courtroom and become part of the trial. There are 11 speaking roles, which will be assigned first come, first served. OR, sit in the audience and enjoy the show!
Who?
Ages 21 and upWhat?
ADULT MOCK TRIALWhen?
5:30-7:30 pm
5:30 Eat, Drink, & Mingle
6:00 Court is in session15 registrations must be received by the previous Tuesday for event to take place
Where?
1916 Historic Courthouse
Historic Courtroom, Third floor
300 N. Dixie Hwy., West Palm BeachHow?
Purchase tickets here or call 561.832.464 x 100
$20 HSPBC members; $30 non-members - Archival Evening Honoree ReceptionArchival Evening Honoree Reception
Archival Evening is the premier annual benefit for the HSPBC. The evening pays tribute to individuals whose achievements have substantially contributed to the area’s unique character. Guests are the who’s-who in the Palm Beach social scene.
Click here for more information.
- HSPBC Offices and Museum Closed
N/A
HSPBC Offices and Museum Closed - Walking Tour
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Walking TourTake a step back in time with our History Walking Tours! The HSPBC’s tours of Downtown West Palm Beach are led by architect and historian Rick Gonzalez of REG Architects. The 90-minute guided tours showcase the evolution of the city’s buildings and landmarks, including a historical overview of urban design, through recent development. The tours have been organized each season since the development of CityPlace (now Rosemary Square) in West Palm Beach. The fee is $10 per person with reservations required (online at hspbc.org or call 561.832.4164 ext. 100). Tours are rain or shine. Tickets are limited, so walk-ups are not guaranteed inclusion in the tour.
The Historic Walking tour is sponsored by REG Architects.
- Archival EveningArchival Evening
Archival Evening is the premier annual benefit for the HSPBC. The evening pays tribute to individuals whose achievements have substantially contributed to the area’s unique character. Guests are the who’s-who in the Palm Beach social scene.
Click here for more information.
- Walking Tour
–
Walking TourTake a step back in time on our Historical Walking Tours! The Historical Society of Palm Beach County will host Downtown West Palm Beach History Strolls led by architect and historian Rick Gonzalez of REG Architects. The one-hour guided tour showcases the evolution of downtown West Palm Beach buildings and landmarks and includes an historical urban design overview through recent area development. The tours have been organized each season since the development of CityPlace, West Palm Beach.
Tours begin at 10am at the Green Market, $10 per person. Call 561.832.4164 ext. 100 for more information or to reserve your spot.
The Historic Walking tour is sponsored by REG Architects.
- HSPBC Offices and Museum Closed
N/A
HSPBC Offices and Museum ClosedHSPBC offices and Museum ClosedN/A
HSPBC offices and Museum ClosedHappy Holidays to you and yours.
- HSPBC Offices and Museum Closed
N/A
HSPBC Offices and Museum ClosedHSPBC offices and Museum ClosedN/A
HSPBC offices and Museum ClosedHappy Holidays to you and yours.
- Opening of Alexander Hamilton: The Man Who Made AmericaOpening of Alexander Hamilton: The Man Who Made America
- Walking Tour
–
Walking TourTake a step back in time with our History Walking Tours! The HSPBC’s tours of Downtown West Palm Beach are led by architect and historian Rick Gonzalez of REG Architects. The 90-minute guided tours showcase the evolution of the city’s buildings and landmarks, including a historical overview of urban design, through recent development. The tours have been organized each season since the development of CityPlace (now Rosemary Square) in West Palm Beach. The fee is $10 per person with reservations required (online at hspbc.org or call 561.832.4164 ext. 100). Tours are rain or shine. Tickets are limited, so walk-ups are not guaranteed inclusion in the tour.
The Historic Walking tour is sponsored by REG Architects.
- Lecture
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LectureDistinguished Lecture Series
Mary Adkins, Professor of Legal Writing and Appellate Advocacy, University of Florida Levin College of Law
“Making Modern Florida: How the Spirit of Reform Shaped a New State Constitution”Florida recently underwent its third Constitution Revision Commission, adding a bewildering array of amendments. We citizens complained, but approved them all. What was that process, and why do we have it? The answer lies in the history and politics of the 1950s and 1960s, and in Florida’s transformation in just a few years from a bastion of post-Reconstruction rebellion to a paragon of modern government. That change helped Palm Beach County go from being politically irrelevant to having the clout it deserved—even in the Governor’s Mansion. Based on her research of the 1968 Florida Constitution and its revisions, Adkins will discuss her book Making Modern Florida: How the Spirit of Reform Shaped a New Constitution (University Press of Florida, 2016).
Adkins presents on Florida Constitution revision throughout the state and consulted on the most recent constitution revision. She has conducted numerous oral history interviews of Florida legal, political and historical figures, is a leader in national legal writing organizations, and is a vice president of the Florida Supreme Court Historical Society. Her next book is a biography of “America’s Lawyer,” Chesterfield Smith. Adkins earned her B.S.J., M.A., and J.D. from the University of Florida.
- Afternoon Lecture
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Afternoon LectureThird Thursday @ 3 was initiated to provide a daytime option for those who want to learn more Palm Beach County history. Attendees are encouraged to visit the admission-free Johnson History Museum on the 2nd floor before or after the lectures.
Third Thursday @ 3 lecture series presents:
Thursday, January 16, 2020
Cynthia Kanai, Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens
Cynthia Kanai is CEO of Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens in Palm Beach, which includes a landmarked house, gardens, and art collection. At Palm Beach Day Academy, she taught for 25 years before serving as development director for three years. Kanai was awarded the William T. Dwyer Excellence in Education Award in Palm Beach County in 2012 and the Adele Shook Merck Excellence in Education Teacher of the Year Award in 2010. She holds a M.S. in Leadership from Palm Beach Atlantic University and a B.S. in Education from Cameron University (Oklahoma).
Thursday, February 20, 2020
Cheryl Houghtelin, MacArthur State ParkHoughtelin served as Executive Director of the Historical Society of Palm Beach County from 2000 to 2002.
Thursday, March 19, 2020
Al Simbritz, Elliott Museum
House of Refuge, Hutchinson IslandSimbritz will discuss the history of the House of Refuge, the oldest building in Martin County, and how its preservation brought about the founding of the Martin County Historical Society and the Elliott Museum. Topics will include pirate Don Pedro Gilbert, who lent his name to the area of Hutchinson Island; the rescue and preservation of this last remaining House of Refuge; and the Elliott family, which made the museum possible. Simbritz is Education Coordinator for the Elliott Museum, where he has also served as volunteer and several staff positions, including Executive Director. Simbritz holds a M.S. degree from Barry University in Leadership and Organizational Development.
Thursday, April 18, 2020
Virgilia Viale Baird, West Palm Beach Public Utilities
One WaterThe term “One Water” describes a comprehensive and long-term approach to community-based water management. From the origins of the West Palm Beach Water Works, to Flagler’s purchase of the Grassy Waters Preserve, to our present-day water, wastewater, and stormwater operations, One Water provides a fresh perspective on the City of West Palm Beach Public Utilities. It focuses on the various facets of utilities operations and celebrates the connection between public health and the environment. Baird holds a B.S. degree in Environmental Science and Policy and a minor in Women’s Studies from the University of South Florida. She joined the City of West Palm Beach Public Utilities Department in 2012 in the Laboratory Services division and currently serves as the Environmental Management Systems Coordinator.
- Walking Tour
–
Walking TourTake a step back in time on our Historical Walking Tours! The Historical Society of Palm Beach County will host Downtown West Palm Beach History Strolls led by architect and historian Rick Gonzalez of REG Architects. The one-hour guided tour showcases the evolution of downtown West Palm Beach buildings and landmarks and includes an historical urban design overview through recent area development. The tours have been organized each season since the development of CityPlace, West Palm Beach.
Tours begin at 10am at the Green Market, $10 per person. Call 561.832.4164 ext. 100 for more information or to reserve your spot.
The Historic Walking tour is sponsored by REG Architects.
- Adult Mock TrialAdult Mock Trial
Join us for an unforgettable evening crossing traditional theater with modern-day law. Ever wonder what it’s like to be part of a scandalous trial of Palm Beach’s rich and famous? Step into the inspirational 1916 Courtroom and become part of the trial. There are 11 speaking roles, which will be assigned first come, first served. OR, sit in the audience and enjoy the show!
Who?
Ages 21 and upWhat?
ADULT MOCK TRIALWhen?
5:30-7:30 pm
5:30 Eat, Drink, & Mingle
6:00 Court is in session15 registrations must be received by the previous Tuesday for event to take place
Where?
1916 Historic Courthouse
Historic Courtroom, Third floor
300 N. Dixie Hwy., West Palm BeachHow?
Purchase tickets here or call 561.832.464 x 100
$20 HSPBC members; $30 non-members - Walking Tour
–
Walking TourTake a step back in time on our Historical Walking Tours! The Historical Society of Palm Beach County will host Downtown West Palm Beach History Strolls led by architect and historian Rick Gonzalez of REG Architects. The one-hour guided tour showcases the evolution of downtown West Palm Beach buildings and landmarks and includes an historical urban design overview through recent area development. The tours have been organized each season since the development of CityPlace, West Palm Beach.
Tours begin at 4pm, $10 per person. Call 561.832.4164 ext. 100 for more information or to reserve your spot.
The Historic Walking tour is sponsored by REG Architects.
- Providencia Coconut Event @ Royal Poinciana PlazaProvidencia Coconut Event @ Royal Poinciana Plaza
- Lecture
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LectureDistinguished Lecture Series
Dr. Alisha R. Winn, applied cultural anthropologist and Adjunct Professor, Palm Beach Atlantic College
“Historic Northwest Rising: Reviving the Past, Elevating Community, and Transforming the Narrative“Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1992, the Northwest Historic District was West Palm Beach’s segregated African American community from the 1920s to 1960s, when it represented economic and community success in education and business. In efforts to restore its homes and historic buildings such as the Sunset Lounge, the West Palm Beach Community Redevelopment Agency established the Historic Northwest Rising Project to engage the community, rebuild the neighborhood, and preserve its history. Dr. Alisha R. Winn, a project consultant, describes the revitalization process and explores the residents’ perspective—a lens beyond historic landmarked experiences, identifying community pride and ownership, and transforming the narrative to a positive view of the neighborhood.
Winn is an adjunct professor at Palm Beach Atlantic College and an applied cultural anthropologist who consults in preservation and community building efforts for the West Palm Beach’s Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA), Habitat for Humanity, the Storm of ’28 Memorial Park Coalition, Inc., and the African American Research Library & Cultural Center of Palm Beach County, Inc. (AARLCC). She incorporates anthropological knowledge to governmental, community, educational, and religious institutions on the social construction of race and its history, cultural belief systems and practices, and language, helping students and the public appreciate her discipline’s usefulness and relevance today.
- Closing of Alexander Hamilton: The Man Who Made AmericaClosing of Alexander Hamilton: The Man Who Made AmericaWalking Tour
–
Walking TourTake a step back in time on our Historical Walking Tours! The Historical Society of Palm Beach County will host Downtown West Palm Beach History Strolls led by architect and historian Rick Gonzalez of REG Architects. The one-hour guided tour showcases the evolution of downtown West Palm Beach buildings and landmarks and includes an historical urban design overview through recent area development. The tours have been organized each season since the development of CityPlace, West Palm Beach.
Tours begin at 10am at the Green Market, $10 per person. Call 561.832.4164 ext. 100 for more information or to reserve your spot.
The Historic Walking tour is sponsored by REG Architects.
- Benefactor ReceptionBenefactor Reception
- Afternoon Lecture
–
Afternoon LectureThird Thursday @ 3 was initiated to provide a daytime option for those who want to learn more Palm Beach County history. Attendees are encouraged to visit the admission-free Johnson History Museum on the 2nd floor before or after the lectures.
Third Thursday @ 3 lecture series presents:
Thursday, January 16, 2020
Cynthia Kanai, Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens
Cynthia Kanai is CEO of Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens in Palm Beach, which includes a landmarked house, gardens, and art collection. At Palm Beach Day Academy, she taught for 25 years before serving as development director for three years. Kanai was awarded the William T. Dwyer Excellence in Education Award in Palm Beach County in 2012 and the Adele Shook Merck Excellence in Education Teacher of the Year Award in 2010. She holds a M.S. in Leadership from Palm Beach Atlantic University and a B.S. in Education from Cameron University (Oklahoma).
Thursday, February 20, 2020
Cheryl Houghtelin, MacArthur State ParkHoughtelin served as Executive Director of the Historical Society of Palm Beach County from 2000 to 2002.
Thursday, March 19, 2020
Al Simbritz, Elliott Museum
House of Refuge, Hutchinson IslandSimbritz will discuss the history of the House of Refuge, the oldest building in Martin County, and how its preservation brought about the founding of the Martin County Historical Society and the Elliott Museum. Topics will include pirate Don Pedro Gilbert, who lent his name to the area of Hutchinson Island; the rescue and preservation of this last remaining House of Refuge; and the Elliott family, which made the museum possible. Simbritz is Education Coordinator for the Elliott Museum, where he has also served as volunteer and several staff positions, including Executive Director. Simbritz holds a M.S. degree from Barry University in Leadership and Organizational Development.
Thursday, April 18, 2020
Virgilia Viale Baird, West Palm Beach Public Utilities
One WaterThe term “One Water” describes a comprehensive and long-term approach to community-based water management. From the origins of the West Palm Beach Water Works, to Flagler’s purchase of the Grassy Waters Preserve, to our present-day water, wastewater, and stormwater operations, One Water provides a fresh perspective on the City of West Palm Beach Public Utilities. It focuses on the various facets of utilities operations and celebrates the connection between public health and the environment. Baird holds a B.S. degree in Environmental Science and Policy and a minor in Women’s Studies from the University of South Florida. She joined the City of West Palm Beach Public Utilities Department in 2012 in the Laboratory Services division and currently serves as the Environmental Management Systems Coordinator.
- Evening on Antique Row Kickoff PartyEvening on Antique Row Kickoff Party
- Walking Tour
–
Walking TourTake a step back in time on our Historical Walking Tours! The Historical Society of Palm Beach County will host Downtown West Palm Beach History Strolls led by architect and historian Rick Gonzalez of REG Architects. The one-hour guided tour showcases the evolution of downtown West Palm Beach buildings and landmarks and includes an historical urban design overview through recent area development. The tours have been organized each season since the development of CityPlace, West Palm Beach.
Tours begin at 4pm, $10 per person. Call 561.832.4164 ext. 100 for more information or to reserve your spot.
The Historic Walking tour is sponsored by REG Architects.
- EOAR 2020
- Lecture
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LectureDistinguished Lecture Series
Dr. Robert P. Watson, Distinguished Professor of American History and Director of Project Civitas, Lynn University
“Hidden History”There is more that we do not know about history than we do know. Watson will share fun, intriguing stories about the process of historical discovery and the mistakes historians sometimes make. Fun detective work!
Dr. Watson is an award-winning author, having published over 40 books on history and politics, several translated internationally. He has been a frequent political commentator in national media and served as a visiting scholar with dozens of historic sites and co-founded the annual Truman Legacy Symposium for the Truman Presidential Library. Voted “Professor of the Year” at both Florida Atlantic University and Lynn University, Watson is sure to please our audience.
- Afternoon Lecture
–
Afternoon LectureThird Thursday @ 3 was initiated to provide a daytime option for those who want to learn more Palm Beach County history. Attendees are encouraged to visit the admission-free Johnson History Museum on the 2nd floor before or after the lectures.
Third Thursday @ 3 lecture series presents:
Thursday, January 16, 2020
Cynthia Kanai, Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens
Cynthia Kanai is CEO of Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens in Palm Beach, which includes a landmarked house, gardens, and art collection. At Palm Beach Day Academy, she taught for 25 years before serving as development director for three years. Kanai was awarded the William T. Dwyer Excellence in Education Award in Palm Beach County in 2012 and the Adele Shook Merck Excellence in Education Teacher of the Year Award in 2010. She holds a M.S. in Leadership from Palm Beach Atlantic University and a B.S. in Education from Cameron University (Oklahoma).
Thursday, February 20, 2020
Cheryl Houghtelin, MacArthur State ParkHoughtelin served as Executive Director of the Historical Society of Palm Beach County from 2000 to 2002.
Thursday, March 19, 2020
Al Simbritz, Elliott Museum
House of Refuge, Hutchinson IslandSimbritz will discuss the history of the House of Refuge, the oldest building in Martin County, and how its preservation brought about the founding of the Martin County Historical Society and the Elliott Museum. Topics will include pirate Don Pedro Gilbert, who lent his name to the area of Hutchinson Island; the rescue and preservation of this last remaining House of Refuge; and the Elliott family, which made the museum possible. Simbritz is Education Coordinator for the Elliott Museum, where he has also served as volunteer and several staff positions, including Executive Director. Simbritz holds a M.S. degree from Barry University in Leadership and Organizational Development.
Thursday, April 18, 2020
Virgilia Viale Baird, West Palm Beach Public Utilities
One WaterThe term “One Water” describes a comprehensive and long-term approach to community-based water management. From the origins of the West Palm Beach Water Works, to Flagler’s purchase of the Grassy Waters Preserve, to our present-day water, wastewater, and stormwater operations, One Water provides a fresh perspective on the City of West Palm Beach Public Utilities. It focuses on the various facets of utilities operations and celebrates the connection between public health and the environment. Baird holds a B.S. degree in Environmental Science and Policy and a minor in Women’s Studies from the University of South Florida. She joined the City of West Palm Beach Public Utilities Department in 2012 in the Laboratory Services division and currently serves as the Environmental Management Systems Coordinator.
- Walking Tour
–
Walking TourTake a step back in time on our Historical Walking Tours! The Historical Society of Palm Beach County will host Downtown West Palm Beach History Strolls led by architect and historian Rick Gonzalez of REG Architects. The one-hour guided tour showcases the evolution of downtown West Palm Beach buildings and landmarks and includes an historical urban design overview through recent area development. The tours have been organized each season since the development of CityPlace, West Palm Beach.
Tours begin at 10am at the Green Market, $10 per person. Call 561.832.4164 ext. 100 for more information or to reserve your spot.
The Historic Walking tour is sponsored by REG Architects.
- Adult Mock TrialAdult Mock Trial
Join us for an unforgettable evening crossing traditional theater with modern-day law. Ever wonder what it’s like to be part of a scandalous trial of Palm Beach’s rich and famous? Step into the inspirational 1916 Courtroom and become part of the trial. There are 11 speaking roles, which will be assigned first come, first served. OR, sit in the audience and enjoy the show!
Who?
Ages 21 and upWhat?
ADULT MOCK TRIALWhen?
5:30-7:30 pm
5:30 Eat, Drink, & Mingle
6:00 Court is in session15 registrations must be received by the previous Tuesday for event to take place
Where?
1916 Historic Courthouse
Historic Courtroom, Third floor
300 N. Dixie Hwy., West Palm BeachHow?
Purchase tickets here or call 561.832.464 x 100
$20 HSPBC members; $30 non-members