Restoring History: The House of Refuge Story at the Elliott Museum.

Tuesday, May 26 | Time: 2:00 PM

Presenters: Catherine Larsen & Rick Gonzalez
Cost: FREE (Members & Non-Members)
Admission: First come, first served

150 Years. One House. Countless Stories.

For a century and a half, the House of Refuge has stood watch over Florida’s coastline weathering storms and sheltering survivors, and now, for the first time, you’re invited to discover its next chapter.

What really happened inside the House of Refuge?

Step beyond the walls… and into the story.

This isn’t just a lecture, it’s a rare opportunity to uncover the hidden layers of one of Martin County’s most iconic and mysterious landmarks.

Join Catherine Larsen, Keeper of the House, and Rick Gonzalez, architect and preservation expert, as they pull back the curtain on the remarkable restoration of the historic House of Refuge.

Catherine Larsen has been boots on the ground leading the most consequential restoration in the site’s history, guiding its transformation during its 150th anniversary into both a preserved landmark and a vibrant cultural platform. With a background spanning The Washington Post, the Library of Congress, and international cultural work, she brings a uniquely rich perspective to the story of the House of Refuge.

Rick Gonzalez is one of Florida’s leading preservation architects, having restored landmark properties including Mar-a-Lago, the Harriet Himmel Theater, and the 1916 Palm Beach County Courthouse. A member of the Florida Historical Commission and a federally appointed advisor on historic preservation, Rick brings decades of expertise in protecting and revitalizing historic structures.

WHAT YOU’LL DISCOVER:

The untold challenges of restoring a 150-year-old structure built to endure the elements

The craftsmanship and decision-making behind preserving its authenticity

Stories uncovered during restoration that have remained hidden for generations

A first look at the future of the House of Refuge—including exhibits, artistic programming, and immersive experiences

WHY YOU SHOULDN’T MISS IT:

This isn’t just about preserving a building…It’s about honoring 150 years of resilience, innovation, and human connection and ensuring those stories continue to inspire for generations to come.

Because places like this don’t just hold history…they hold stories waiting to be revealed.

And for one afternoon, you get to be part of that discovery!