Good Day Everyone,

All of us at the Historical Society of Martin County hope you will join us in a quiet moment of humble pride. One of our primary duties is to take note of significant historical events that impact Martin County and tell the heartwarming stories that define the character of the people who call this beautiful spot home. During the current pandemic challenge, it is safe to say that the calm, caring, and competent nature of this community has risen in step with the epidemic. We believe that grace is the term that best defines our community’s collective response to this global concern, and we promise to carefully archive the tales of kindness that have become the Rule of the Day.

With a small but feisty skeleton staff remaining in place during these trying days, we are committed to the notion that we can transform this crisis into a singular opportunity in the history of our 60-year-old institution. Before too long, we will be in a position to announce the date for the “Historically Grand Reopening” of our beloved museums. We have the expressed intention of making the reopening event a memorable evening for everyone. This highly anticipated evening will be an opportunity to cast the memories of this global crisis into the fire, and focus our energies on the limitless potential of arts, culture, music, history, and education in our community. We need something to feel great about, and we will be relentless in our ambition to make it happen.

Without spoiling the surprise or naming names, over the course of the next few weeks, I will be sharing bits and pieces of this special night, so we can all begin to look forward to it. Art. We can’t get enough of it. We are adapting the spaces of the Elliott Museum to showcase an ever-changing spectrum of local, national, and international artists. Nearly a third of our 48,000 square feet will be dedicated to showcasing a wide variety of art mediums with a sharp focus on raising the awareness of the remarkable talent that exists within the boundaries of Martin County. We are committed to working with our vibrant arts community and helping to promote the notion that we are indeed a bona fide “Arts Community.” Four talented and perhaps heretofore unknown, local artists and arts groups will be featured at our grand opening!

Just a few moments ago, I mentioned the word grace and its prevalence in Martin County. Please let me share an idea on how we can all have a part in expanding the power of grace as we navigate our way through these unprecedented times. You may have heard that some people are taking the time to buy gift certificates from some of the local merchants with whom they traditionally do business. What a great idea! It helps these small businesses maintain operations when their sales are virtually nil. Let’s all do our part to continue this trend in support of our essential nonprofit community. Once a day, or as often as you can, take a moment to renew a membership, start a new membership, or make an unexpected contribution to one of the nonprofit organizations that help to make our community such a special place. I have come to know a good number of these remarkable organizations in my time here, and their dedication to their respective missions is impressive. They deserve your support…and while you have your pen in hand…so do we!

I thank you for uplifting the spirit and creative vigor of our community.