February quietly marks two years since I joined the Historical Society of Martin County, and the milestone has prompted reflection. Working here has deepened my understanding of how history lives not only in objects and archives, but in the people who continue to care for them.

Winter is our most active public season, and the museum has been filled with visitors experiencing both familiar favorites and new discoveries. The Audubon of Martin County exhibition continues to draw attention to the natural history that defines this region, while the Martin Artisans Guild Open Studio Preview Show highlights the depth of creativity actively thriving in our community. For those who have not visited in some time, the Elliott has changed significantly, with refreshed galleries, new narratives, and renewed energy throughout the building.

While the galleries are active, much of my time is also spent behind the scenes. This winter I am continuing an ambitious, museum-wide inventory, placing hands on every object, document, and artwork in our care. This work is meticulous by nature, but essential. It ensures that each item is properly documented, understood, and preserved, strengthening the foundation for future exhibitions, research, and interpretation. 

The inventory has been enriched by the dedication of volunteers who bring patience and curiosity to the process. Together, we are uncovering overlooked details, rediscovering forgotten materials, and building clearer connections between the objects and the people who shaped this community.

A new adventure began this month as Jes on the Road made a debut in several speaking engagements, sharing local history and preservation work across the region. Recent talks included community gatherings at the Elks Club and Hobe Sound Library, the St. Lucie Historic Fest and I will close the month at the Jupiter Heritage River Fest at Jupiter Lighthouse. These events continue to reinforce how deeply connected this community is to its history and to the work of preserving it.

As I reflect on two years of work, I often return to the perspective of early pioneer journals like that of Homer Hine Stuart Jr., whose writings emphasized the Indian River as a connective force rather than a boundary. That idea resonates strongly today. The museum exists to connect past and present, scholarship and community, stewardship and storytelling and thorough the shared connections between our fellow institutions the stories take on a new sense of depth and significance. 

I am grateful for the colleagues, volunteers, and visitors who make this work meaningful. Preserving history is never a solitary effort, and it is a privilege to continue building this shared record together.

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR GROUP TOURS

The new year is here, and our calendar is packed with opportunities to celebrate local heritage and creativity! January begins with Jes on the Road, sharing stories of Stuart’s pioneers and the restoration work at the House of Refuge. From the St. Lucie Historic Fest on the Ft. Pierce Causeway to engaging talks at the Elks Club and Hobe Sound Library, these presentations connect our community to its roots and the ongoing efforts to preserve them.

Later in the month, I’ll gather with the Soroptimist Ladies at Helping People Succeed for discussion on how history compliments community building and then we close January at the Loxahatchee River Fest at Jupiter Lighthouse, a perfect setting to reflect on river life and early settlement stories.

In Art News, the Audubon of Martin County Exhibit opens January 22 at the Elliott Museum, and February brings one of my favorite events of the year: the Martin Artisan’s Guild Open Studio Preview Show on February 5. Plus, don’t miss the Jensen Beach Art League “Art Show” every 2nd Sunday each month through spring on the Elliott grounds.

Upcoming Events

• Sat, Jan 10 | 10 AM – 6 PM – St. Lucie Historic Fest, Ft. Pierce Causeway
• Thu, Jan 15 | 5 PM – 9 PM – Jes speaks for SLHS at Elks Club, Ft. Pierce
• Sat, Jan 17 | 9 AM – 12:30 PM – Jes speaks for SEFAS at Hobe Sound Library (House of Refuge restoration)
• Sat, Jan 24 | 9 AM – 11 AM – Jes speaks at Helping People Succeed to Soroptimist Club
• Sat, Jan 31 | 9 AM – 4 PM – Loxahatchee River Fest, Jupiter Lighthouse
• Thu, Jan 22 – Audubon Exhibit opens at Elliott Museum
• Sun (bi-weekly) – Jensen Beach Art League shows on Elliott grounds
• Thu, Feb 5 – Martin Artisan’s Guild Open Studio Tour

The season is just getting started, and we have so many wonderful things planned for 2026. If you haven’t checked your membership lately, now’s the perfect time to renew and reserve your spot for all the hijinks to come. I am profoundly grateful to all the new friends I’ve met; you’ve brightened my life in countless ways. Here’s to a year of creativity, connection, and shared history!

November marks a season of joyful reunions. As friends return from time spent elsewhere, we begin preparing for months filled with lively gatherings and continued learning at the Historical Society of Martin County.

This month, we are proud to present a new exhibit featuring rare Highwaymen paintings. Alongside these works, we offer a deeper exploration of the cultural forces that inspired their creation. These paintings provide vivid portrayals of Florida’s past and reflect a movement that shaped how we view the state’s natural beauty and social history.

To celebrate the exhibit’s opening, we invite you to the premiere of Legends of the Highway at the Lyric Theater. This powerful new film brings the Highwaymen story to life with cinematic flair and heartfelt performances. It offers a fresh perspective on the legacy of these iconic artists. After the screening, we will host a celebratory gathering to honor the cast and crew who helped share this story with the world.

History is full of perspectives that may not be immediately obvious. Sometimes, a single detail can reveal a hidden connection and help us better understand the past. One of the most personal ways to explore our shared history is through visual images.

We encourage our community to revisit their photo collections. Do your snapshots help paint a clearer picture of Martin County’s story? Could your 10th birthday party reveal a slice of what our area once looked like?

Take a moment to look through your albums and let us know what you find. The images we hold in our personal collections are threads in the tapestry of our shared history. Talk to those in your circle. There are treasures waiting to be discovered about our home.

I am continually amazed at the staff and volunteer ecosystem that exists here at the HSMC, it is truly a place where we can go to get away from it all. We invite you to come regularly this season, there are so many new exhibits and stories to discover.

You will step into a world where opulence met artistry and where even an Easter egg could be worth a king’s ransom. This season, we invite you to explore the captivating story of the Romanov dynasty and their dazzling tradition of Fabergé Imperial Easter Eggs, objects so exquisite, they became symbols of a vanished empire.

From 1613 to 1917, the Romanovs ruled Russia with grandeur and vision. But it was under Tsar Alexander III and his son Nicholas II that the court jeweler Peter Carl Fabergé rose to legendary status. Beginning in 1885, Fabergé crafted a series of bejeweled eggs; each one a masterpiece of craftsmanship, surprise, and sentiment. Commissioned as intimate gifts, they often contain hidden treasures: miniature portraits, mechanical swans, or tiny replicas of royal carriages.

Today, only 46 of the original 52 Imperial eggs are known to survive. Their stories are as layered as the eggs themselves; lost in revolutions, rediscovered in dusty attics, and sometimes mistaken for scrap metal before being identified as priceless heirlooms.

This season, we’re bringing their legacy to life. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or simply curious about the glittering drama of the Russian court, our exhibit offers a rare chance to immerse yourself in the elegance and mystery of a bygone era.

Come see the craftsmanship. Come feel the history. Come be dazzled.

We can’t wait to welcome you.

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.

TAP HERE TO SEE FORMS FOR SUBMISSION

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.

Every August I celebrate just a little because it’s about halfway through the dog days of summer (the extended-cut FL version).

Once school starts up, it’s a fast rush towards Halloween and the culmination of all this summer’s carefully laid plans. This fall we have Wonderful Things going on here at The Elliott. Two immense exhibits opening in September, an exclusive movie premiere alongside Roger Lightle’s Highwaymen exhibit in November and as a mental respite from the heat, we are already planning for the Annual Christmas Party.

As I have been reorganizing the curatorial objects this summer through the inventory process, I am getting a better understanding of the spirit of our collections. It’s genuinely a time capsule into the history of our community as you read the stories of where/who the items came from. This month I found a unique device made by Dr. Sanche, who has an even more unique local story; a book of letters compiled as an autograph book to showcase all the famous signatures of the people who corresponded with Janet Hutchenson and I have finally been able to read the Purple Heart Diaries, Frances Langford’s post war commentary on the recovery efforts of the troops once they came stateside.

All told, it highlights how our little community has held wide influence through the connections of the people who lived here.

Part of my big goal for the year is to complete an ambitious inventory of all items in the museum’s collection.

While this sounds like a daunting job, I feel a real need to put my hands on every object, artifact and document that I am taking responsibility for. Our collection spans such different genres because at the heart of it all, this is the community’s place and the stories we tell are based on the people who have lived here. From Vaugn Monroe’s Chief Headdress presented to him by the Seminole Tribe along with the designation of Chief Roaring Mouth, to the newsworthy Christmas collection of toy animals presented to the HSMC by Emmiline Paige and paintings by the greats like Samuel Margolis and Alberto Vargas, the back storage areas are full of stories that evoke the feel of what came before.

I couldn’t do this work so thoroughly without the help of dedicated volunteers and one project dear to my heart is the book inventory, currently being undertaken by Linda Von Cino who has spent hours poring over the internet to provide context and value for this collection. There have been some very special books discovered recently which are out of print and have been all but forgotten. A diary account of a women’s journey to Egypt in 1850 with her brother, to assist him in accessing areas that men were not allowed to enter, a book listing popular Japanese artworks of the 1870s. And perhaps, most significant to this area, In Defense of Fisherman, a spirited account from Grover Cleveland defending the chronic fisherman from the public images of a lazy, straw-chewing, work-shirker.

Cleveland wrote this book after his second inconsecutive term as a series of letters to the Saturday Evening Post and our copy is inscribed to H.W. Bessey and says  “ I wrote it but Huston Finley is guilty of circulating it. “ Grover Cleveland, Jan 24, 1905.

Mr. Finely was Mr. Cleveland’s biographer and friend of many years who accompanied him on many of those lazy fishing trips…

ROGER VAIL EXHIBIT, GRUMMAN’S LEGACY, AND HISTORIC PRESERVATION MONTH

Martin County is buzzing with excitement this week as we continue to mark Historic Preservation Month, and the HSMC is pleased to offer several new exhibits this month. Digging deep into our Art Vault, we have uncovered an artist almost forgotten to time. Once a major participant on the international art stage, the Roger Vail exhibit is truly something to witness. Joined by the opening of both the Grumman and the 100 years of Martin County exhibits, we have quite a few new things to show you.

Roger Vail: A Visionary Artist’s Exhibit Opens in Martin County

The newly installed Roger Vail art exhibit brings a fresh perspective to Martin County’s cultural scene. Vail, a self-taught artist known for his bold use of color and fragmented compositions, created works that reflect deep emotion, social commentary, and personal expression. His artistic journey was shaped by a diverse background, including time spent as an entertainer, actor, and even a shipyard worker before turning to painting in 1954.

The exhibit showcases Vail’s unique approach to painting, highlighting his ability to capture raw human experiences through vivid imagery. His work has been displayed internationally, from London to Bogota, and the works currently on display are part of the Historical Society of Martin County’s permanent collection, acquired in 1968.

Grumman’s Legacy: A New Exhibit Honoring Aerospace Innovation

Alongside Roger’s breathtaking display, the Historical Society of Martin County is unveiling a new exhibit dedicated to Grumman’s legacy. Known for its engineering excellence, Grumman played a significant role in the aerospace industry, with its presence at Plant 77 and Witham Field transforming Stuart into a hub for aviation and defense innovation. The exhibit highlights the company’s contributions showcasing the craftsmanship and dedication of the employees who helped shape Grumman’s impact on the industry.

Even decades after the company’s departure, the Martin County Grumman Retirement Club continues to meet, preserving the camaraderie and commitment that defined their time at Grumman.

Historic Preservation Month: Honoring Martin County’s Heritage

May is Historic Preservation Month, and Martin County is celebrating with a series of events designed to raise awareness about the importance of preserving local landmarks and stories. The Martin County Historic Preservation Board has organized activities throughout the month, including lectures, guided tours, and open houses at historic sites such as the Mansion at Tuckahoe, the House of Refuge, and Captain Sewall’s House. These events provide residents and visitors alike with opportunities to explore the county’s architectural and archaeological treasures while learning about the efforts to maintain them for future generations.

One of the highlights of the month is the Preservationist of the Year Award, which was presented at The Elliott Museum on May 17. This prestigious recognition honors individuals who have made significant contributions to historic preservation in Martin County. The award ceremony serves as a reminder of the dedication required to safeguard the county’s unique past.

As Martin County continues to celebrate its history and artistic achievements, the opening of the Roger Vail exhibit and the new Martin County History displays serve as powerful reminders of the importance of preserving both cultural and industrial legacies. Whether through exhibits, events, or individual efforts, the commitment to historic preservation ensures that Martin County’s story remains vibrant for generations to come.

This year has been a whirlwind of activity in the collections storage areas as we focus on the monumental task of physically touching and examining every single item in our inventory. The effort, though challenging, has proven to be incredibly rewarding, allowing us to reorganize, reassess, and ensure each piece is properly preserved and documented for future generations.

Our journey through the collections has brought forth fascinating discoveries, and one standout moment was the deep dive into our extensive baseball collection. With the invaluable assistance of our dedicated volunteer, Branden Hummell, we were able to meticulously review and rediscover treasures that make our collection truly remarkable. From vintage photographs and signed memorabilia to stories that weave the tapestry of baseball history, our work has reconnected us to the cultural significance of America’s pastime.

As spring training transitions into the regular season, we’ve been inspired to envision what our next baseball exhibit could look like. Our team has been brainstorming themes that would captivate visitors and provide them with fresh insights into local baseball’s rich and storied history.

One intriguing concept is the Ty Cobb–Al Stump controversy, which explores the complicated relationship between the legendary player and his biographer, shedding light on the duality of perception and truth in sports history. Ty Cobb remains one of the most polarizing figures in baseball, and this exhibit could challenge visitors to reflect on how legends are constructed and deconstructed over time.

Another idea that has sparked interest is the story of farm teams in Florida, which highlights the Sunshine State’s role in developing future baseball stars. From small-town fields to bustling minor league stadiums, Florida has served as a breeding ground for talent and a gateway for dreams. This exhibit could not only shine a spotlight on the players but also delve into the communities and landscapes that shaped their journeys.

Both concepts have the potential to engage visitors in dynamic ways, whether through interactive displays, rare artifacts, or oral histories. As we continue to refine these ideas, we welcome input and suggestions from our community—after all, baseball is a shared experience that transcends generations.

In the months ahead, we’ll remain focused on our inventory work and continue to uncover hidden gems in the collection. Every item we touch has a story to tell, and we’re committed to bringing those stories to life through thoughtful exhibits and programs.

We extend heartfelt thanks to our supporters, volunteers, and partners whose dedication and enthusiasm have been instrumental in our achievements this year. Together, we’ll ensure that the legacy of baseball—and all the collections we steward—continues to inspire and educate.

This spring, HSMC is proud to present a new exhibit showcasing the works of ten remarkable artists, each with their unique vision and contributions to the cultural tapestry of our community. These artists, whether local treasures or inspired by the lush landscapes of Florida, bring to life stories of heritage, resilience, and artistic exploration.

Among the highlights is Haitian House by Lynn Ruskin, also known as Caimite. Her vibrant depiction of a Caribbean-style beach house evokes the warmth and allure of tropical life. Ruskin’s work stands as a testament to the connections our museum has fostered over decades with artists whose roots stretch deep into the tropics.

George Gach, a distinguished artist and sculptor of Hungarian origin, adds another layer of depth to the exhibit with his piece Beach Bug. Gach’s ability to capture scenes of everyday life and imbue them with charm and character speaks to his versatility as an artist. His work is internationally recognized and serves as a bridge between cultural traditions and artistic storytelling.

We also feature Ruth Bowman’s serene landscapes, such as Savannah Flats, which captures the quiet beauty of southern savannahs, and Cristina de la Vega’s evocative painting Palms, celebrating Florida’s iconic greenery. These pieces not only pay homage to the natural environment but also reflect the artists’ dedication to preserving its beauty through their craft.

As I dive into inventory and familiarize myself with the art collection, I am continually inspired by the talent and passion of these artists. Their works invite us to slow down and appreciate the world as they see it, whether it’s through the quiet stillness of a stormy afternoon in Christopher Spain’s electric photography of the House of Refuge or the charming vignettes of everyday life in works by Walter Brightwell.

This exhibit is not just an opportunity to display these incredible works from the HSMC Vault but a moment for us to reflect on the relationships cultivated by HSMC with the artists who enrich our lives. I hope visitors find as much joy and meaning in this little collection as I have in preparing it.

I wish I could bottle the feeling I have when I drive over the Ten Cent bridge. I look to the south and see the sheer beauty of man’s creation, but the momentum is building for the dip into Sewell’s Point proper and then the slow rise over the Ernest Lyons’ bridge to see this tiny sliver of an island where the silhouette of the House of Refuge is revealed. 

As I can’t help but look to the House and count her pine and palm trees, I set my intention for the day. I will be a bridge to my community, a bridge to students who wish to learn and most importantly, a bridge to the past. Let us never forget her. 

I am so inspired by the conversations we have as you walk through the museum. I am continually reminded that this is our place, your place, everyone’s place to find community. Thank you. 

I’m working on so many things to surprise and delight you, it would be greedy for me to try to share it all here. Please look to our website for a full archive of the research I’m doing to bring you the most entertaining and meaningful stories, just like you have come to expect from the Historical Society of Martin County. Happy 100th Birthday, MC!

“Can you believe I’ve had my one-year anniversary this past month? Well, I can’t—time flies when you’re having fun! In the last year, I’ve made solid friendships, learned more about my community, and discovered so many people who are just like me—people who want the best for our community and who are not afraid to work hard to do the right thing. Each day, I am grateful to add my labor and skills to the pool of those working to preserve our memories of this area and sustain the links to the past that help to inform our future.

We have some exciting changes to permanent exhibits coming up soon, I welcome you in if you haven’t been to visit in a while! I am thrilled to be working on plans for the 100-year anniversary of Martin County and can’t wait to show you what we are working on to celebrate our beautiful county’s full century of existence. As I reflect on the work I have done for the HSMC over the past year, I can’t help but think of all those who have come before me—visionaries like Janet Hutchinson, whose portrait watches over all we do here—and feel so grateful to be here right now. Now is tomorrow’s history!”

As a dedicated member of the Curatorial Department, Jes plays a crucial role in the preservation, management, and presentation of the museum’s collections. Her primary focus areas include collections management, engaging with the public to preserve local history, and planning new exhibits.

Collections Management:
Jes oversees the meticulous cataloging and documentation of the museum’s extensive collection. This includes maintaining accurate records of each item, detailing its provenance, condition, and location within the museum. By implementing an intuitive inventory management system, she ensures that every artifact is accounted for and easily accessible for research, conservation, and exhibition purposes. This system enhances operational efficiency while safeguarding the integrity of the collection.

Indoor Climate Management:
Preserving the physical condition of artifacts is a top priority, and Jes applies her expertise in archival climate management to maintain optimal environmental conditions. She monitors and regulates temperature, humidity, and light levels within storage and display areas to prevent deterioration. Utilizing advanced climate control systems and data loggers, she works to protect artifacts from damage. Additionally, she conducts regular assessments and collaborates with conservation specialists to mitigate potential risks, ensuring the long-term preservation of the collection.

Planning New Exhibits:
Bringing the collection to life through engaging and educational exhibits is another vital aspect of Jes’s role. She collaborates with curators, designers, and educators to conceptualize and develop new exhibitions that captivate audiences and highlight the significance of the artifacts. This process involves extensive research, object selection, and the creation of compelling narratives that resonate with visitors. By incorporating innovative display techniques and interactive elements, she strives to create immersive experiences that foster a deeper appreciation for cultural heritage.

Beyond these core responsibilities, Jes is actively involved in departmental initiatives that enhance the museum’s operations and outreach. She participates in professional development opportunities, collaborates with external institutions on loans and exhibitions, and contributes to the development of educational programs and community engagement activities. Look out for updates from the Curatorial Department!

Through meticulous inventory management, vigilant climate control, and creative exhibit planning, Jes remains committed to ensuring that the museum’s collection serves as a valuable resource for future generations.