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A Letter From Our President & CEO

“The people who succeed are irrationally passionate about something.” 

- Naval Ravikant.

“Your passion is waiting for your courage to catch up.” - Isabelle Lafleche.

“True passion attracts. If you have passion in your business, the right people will be attracted to your team.” - Robert Kiyosaki.

It is remarkable to witness all the great things that can happen in a nonprofit setting when the people who are involved are passionate about their work. We are truly fortunate to have gathered an assembly of seemingly tireless people who have a limitless passion for the work we are doing at our museums. Our board of directors, staff, and volunteers continue to exceed expectations on every front. It appears to me that these dedicated souls will not rest until these somewhat small museums on a 23-mile-long barrier island are overrun by smiling guests. They are well on their way to accomplishing this lofty goal. I invite you to keep an eye on the House of Refuge Museum over the next few months. With the addition of the “Refuge Runner” 12-passenger van, the House of Refuge has welcomed twice as many visitors as we are accustomed to. I promise you will see a surge in activity and excitement at this iconic historical museum as we approach the 150th anniversary in 2026. The Philly Down South Tiki Restaurant adjacent to the Elliott Museum has methodically expanded (with outstanding community support) to become a very active 30’ X 70’ gathering place and active music venue, which keeps our campus hopping day and night.


My current personal passion is, of course, the upcoming “UFOs Denial-Disclosure-Discernment” exhibit that is occupying virtually all of my time and thoughts. I have been shocked and delighted by the latent interest in the subject, and the outpouring of support from UFO aficionados from all around the country has been overwhelming. We are creating this exhibit in-house, and it will be a bold and altruistic endeavor that will most likely serve to permanently alter our trajectory at the HSMC. The exhibit will be open from December 1st and run until August 31st of 2025. In those 273 days, I will boldly predict we will attract 80,000 to 100,000 guests to the museum. It seems that many people are curious to know “what the exhibit will be like?” My best answer is that it will be a poetic amalgamation of the best available information on perhaps the most significant question ever to confront humanity. Are we alone? You will have the opportunity to decide for yourself before too long.


My best,

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

VIEW HSMC STATEMENTS & MUSEUMS

EXHIBITS

WATER/WAYS

Now through Nov 10, 2024

The essential component of life on our planet which powers the environment’s engine, impacts climate and helps shape and the landscape.


LEARN MORE

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

COASTAL VIBE

Now through Oct. 24, 2024

Explore the stunning local artwork that beautifully captures the essence of Florida Coastal Vibes.


LEARN MORE

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

CHECK OUT ALL EXHIBITS

LECTURES

WATER/WAYS

Sept. 10, 2024 at 3PM

Terry Gibson will be talking about what it takes to protect and restore our coasts and oceans on our Water/Ways exhibit.


LEARN MORE

INTO THE ABYSS

Sept 18, 2024 at 3PM

Uncover the unimaginable life forms and mysteries hidden in the deepest depths of the Ocean with Craig Caddigan.


LEARN MORE

CHECK OUT ALL LECTURES

INTRODUCING A NEW ADOPT PROGRAM

 AT THE HOUSE OF REFUGE

I’m so pleased to announce our new Adopt program … Adopt an Artifact at the House of Refuge! Many of you have commented on how you appreciate the opportunity to support the Elliott through the two Adopt programs – Adopt a Car and Adopt Something – and how great it would be to offer the same opportunity at the House of Refuge. Well, we do now offer such a program!

 

Each of the 10 artifacts available for adoption has a story to tell. From life-saving equipment to personal belongings of those who once served, each piece offers a glimpse of the past. The House of Refuge, 147 years old and the last standing original Houses located on the east coast of Florida, is the oldest and most iconic building in Martin County.

 

By adopting one of the artifacts for one year, you are not only supporting The House of Refuge, but you’re providing for the care of your artifact so that future generations may enjoy it and learn about it for years to come. 

 

Tap the button below which will provide full details of the program with photos and descriptions of each item, the adoption fees, as well as what you will get for adopting, and an order form.

Visit Adopt An Artifact

If you have any questions, or want to check availability of an artifact, please contact:


Catherine Larsen

Keeper of the House

772.225.1875

clarsen@elliottmuseumfl.org


I encourage you to visit the link and act quickly … The artifacts are truly one of a kind and very special!

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

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

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 Coral Springs Museum of Art in Coral Springs, FL.

CORAL SPRINGS MUSEUM OF ART

VISIT THIS MUSEUM

Engage and Connect Diverse Communities

The mission of the Coral Springs Museum of Art is to engage and connect their diverse communities with dynamic exhibits, exceptional art education, stimulating specialty programs and inspired events to ignite cultural enrichment.

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

LEGACY SOCIETY
STERLING SOCIETY
VOLUNTEER
BUY A BRICK
SPONSORSHIP
ADOPT A CAR
ADOPT AN ARTIFACT
ADOPT SOMETHING
BECOME A MEMBER

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.

THE LOBBY

THE CAR GALLERY

THE FORUM

THE CAFE

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!

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

GO TO OUR WEBSITE

THE CURATOR'S CORNER

ART & HISTORY COLLECTION CURATOR, CHESSY RICCA

These past few weeks have been sooo exciting and filled with lots of activity, so check back next month! I will have an amazing story to share for October Newsletter. If you missed any past stories, tap button below.

FIND OUT MORE HERE

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

CAR CURATOR, JIM FERRARE

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

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

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.

LOIS OLIVARI


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

My career was as a Real Estate broker on Long Island then Chicago for 24 years before retiring to Stuart. 



What are your special interests/passions?

Faith & family are First; followed by a passion for ballroom dancing which came to a screeching halt with Covid. That was when I turned to Pickleball. I love live music & enjoy our Lyric Theatre.


What is something that would surprise us about you?

You might be surprised to know I’ve been on the cover of The New York Times when doing passenger service for PanAmerican World Airlines. The Russian jetliner inaugurated direct Soviet-US passenger flights to JFK in 1968 & I welcomed the crew. 


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

The Elliott offers a wealth of knowledge in exhibits, staff & guests. I crave this! It’s a pleasure to volunteer with intelligent, kind people exuding energy!

MORE ABOUT OUR VOLUNTEERS

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

FAST FACT

Henry Ford’s Model T auto was first produced in 1908. It was in production until 1927. When first sold, the Model T Ford cost $850 (the equivalent today of around $27,795). By the time it ceased production in 1927, basic models sold for $260. (The equivalent today of around $8,500).

EXPLORE THE WORLD WITH

THE MUSEUM TRAVEL ALLIANCE

You’re invited to experience the world through a lens of wonder and discovery, joining renowned experts and lectures for behind-the-scenes looks at unforgettable destinations.


The Historical Society of Martin County is a proud member of the Museum Travel Alliance (MTA), a consortium of cultural institutions committed to deepening cultural understanding through meticulously curated travel opportunities. This partnership grants you access to unparalleled, curator-led tours that illuminate the intricacies of art and culture.


On journeys with HSMC and MTA, discover the unseen facets of UNESCO World Heritage Sites with private guides, gain exclusive entry to special gatherings in venues rich with history, visit private collections alongside their owners, and relish the nostalgia of travel aboard sumptuous, privately chartered vessels and trains.

Oaxaca, Mexico City & Puebla: Ancient to Contemporary Art & Architecture

Jan 12 2025 - Jan 19 2025

Learn More

Epic Journey Across Time: Cyprus, Rhodes & Turkey's Lycian Coast Aboard Emerald Azzurra

Apr 9 2025 - Apr 18 2025

Learn More

Turkey to Greece: Heroes, Saints & Emperors Aboard Emerald Azzurra

Apr 16 2025 - Apr 26 2025

Learn More

Timeless Islands of the Mediterranean: Valletta to Genoa Aboard Sea Cloud II

Oct 10 2025 - Oct 20 2025

Learn More

YOU HAVE SO MANY OPTIONS!

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

BROWSE FOR MORE CRUISES 

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

NEW FALL ITEMS ARE HERE AND SOME BEAUTIFUL ARTWORK DONE BY OUR LOCAL ARTISTS!

Get ready for Fall with our latest arrivals! Come see the stunning WORK IN CLAY by the talented artist Julie Brown (shown below). Plus, discover our new collection of Fall clothing, jewelry, plush toys, t-shirts, books, auto metal signs, original art, and so much more! Everything is priced to sell, and you'll be amazed at the variety and quality.


DON'T FORGET - Members receive 10% off (discount does not include consigned items)

Shop today at the Elliott Emporium Museum Shoppe!


Don’t miss out on these fabulous finds!

MINDFULNESS CORNER

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.

September 12

Mike Tamburo- Gong Bath, Performance & Meditation Concert

September 18

September Harvest Full Moon

September 19

2:30PM or 6:00PM

Introduction to Energy Healing Devices

September 20

6:00PM

Spirit Speaks with Medium Beth Lynch

September 21

6:00PM

Fall Equinox Portal Activation

VIEW WEBSITE

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

DID YA EAT YET? CHECK OUT OUR MENUS
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