The Carolina Room at Dataw Island Club was a perfect setting for the Tea

Tuesday, May 12, 2015  The Intimate Secrets of a Victorian Woman. Celebrated author and historic reenactor Kim Poovey opens a door to an opulent past as she recreates the “corsets to crinolines” female dressing rituals of the Victorian age at a lavish Tea Party at Dataw Island. To purchase tickets
$ 30 – Members;  $35 Non-Members.  TICKETS WILL NOT  BE AVAILABLE AT THE DOOR. LAST DAY FOR RESERVATIONS IS MAY 6th, SO GET YOUR TICKETS TODAY.

 

You are invited to a delicious Tea Party and Performance! Celebrated author and beguiling historic reenactor Kim Poovey will present the enchanting “corsets to crinolines” female dressing rituals of the Victorian Age

Beautifully attired guests at the Victorian Tea

on Tuesday, May 12th at Dataw Island Club.

You are invited to a delicious Tea Party and Performance! Celebrated author and beguiling historic reenactor Kim Poovey will present the enchanting “corsets to crinolines” female dressing rituals of the Victorian Age Beautifully attired guests at the Victorian Tea on Tuesday, May 12th at Dataw Island Club Kim Poovey demonstrates the proper use of a corset, with style, during her crowd-pleasing performance at the Victorian Tea Fundraiser. Celebrated author and beguiling historic reenator Kim Poovey will open a door to the opulent past, as she recreates the enchanting “corsets to crinolines” female dressing rituals of the Victorian age, at a lavish and delicious Tea Party.   The event, a fundraiser to benefit the Beaufort History Museum, is planned for 2:00 PM on Tuesday, May 12, at the Dataw Island Club Carolina Room.  Doors will open at 1:30 PM for a live music and cash bar reception followed by seating for the Tea and Performance at 2:00 PM. TICKETS WILL NOT  BE AVAILABLE AT THE DOOR. LAST DAY FOR RESERVATIONS IS MAY 6th, SO GET YOUR TICKETS TODAY.

Beguiling re-enactress Kim Poovey prepares for her role as a Victorian woman about to reveal “intimate secrets” of a lady’s dressing ritual at the Victorian Tea Spring Fundraiser

Beaufort History Museum Presents Tea Party and Performance

Celebrated author and beguiling historic reenator Kim Poovey will open a door to the opulent past, as she recreates the enchanting “corsets to crinolines” female dressing rituals of the Victorian age, at a lavish and delicious Tea Party. The event, a fundraiser to benefit the Beaufort History Museum, is planned for 2:00 PM on Tuesday, May 12, at the Dataw Island Club Carolina Room.

Doors will open at 1:30 PM for a live music and cash bar reception followed by seating for the Tea and Performance at 2:00 PM. Tickets are $30 for BHM members and $35 for non-members. A table of 10 may be purchased for $300. For tickets call Katherine at 843-277-1443. For more information visit www.beauforthistorymusem.com .

“We anticipate that the Victorian Tea Party will be a really special afternoon, helping us to support the Museum and to raise awareness for our upcoming Spring Exhibit, “ said Katherine Lang, past President and member of the Board of Directors. “Kim Poovey is very talented, the menu for the Tea is delicious and the setting at Dataw is spectacular so we expect a successful event. “

Lang said the Museum’s Spring Exhibit, titled “What they wore. Fashion and Finery of the Victorian and Edwardian Eras”, will run May 3-31. It will offer a fascinating presentation of period dress including undergarments, clothing, hats, jewelry and accessories. The Museum is located in The Arsenal at 713 Craven St in Beaufort’s historic district.

The Beaufort History Museum has evolved to focus specifically on the history of the Beaufort District. It strives to manage and display artifacts and documents held by the City of Beaufort, telling the compelling stories of this area from the early 16^th Century until modern times. The BHM hours of operation are 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Monday-Saturday and Noon – 5 PM on Sunday.

Training to Begin April 9

Beaufort, SC – March 16, 2015 – The Beaufort History Museum (BHM) is recruiting a spring class of volunteer Docents to lead tours and serve as community liaisons.   BHM President Anna Schaffer announced the dates for the new class sessions, explaining that the growth of history tourism and interest in the Beaufort area has resulted in a dramatic increase in visitors to the Museum.

“Our move back to The Arsenal last fall, coupled with a growing interest in the history of our area, has fueled an influx of visitors to the museum.  We now have a pressing need to increase the number of Docents to provide tours”, Schaffer said. “The training curriculum will cover all aspects of history relating to Beaufort. Our educators will provide Docents with knowledge of the museum’s collections, history and mission, so that they will be fully capable of welcoming visitors and leading tours.”

Once Docents have completed the training process, they will be asked to serve approximately four, three-hour shifts per month and will commit to a one-year period of service to the museum. Docent training classes will be conducted on April 9, 16, 23 and 30 from 10 am – Noon.

All sessions will be held at The Beaufort History Museum, which is on the second floor of The Arsenal at 713 Craven Street in Beaufort’s historic district. For more information on the Docent program, or other volunteer opportunities with the museum, contact Lorrie Burleyknoles at docent@beaufortschistorymuseum.com

The Beaufort History Museum has evolved to focus specifically on the deep and rich history of the Beaufort District, which originally included Jasper County as well.It strives to manage and display artifacts and documents held by the City of Beaufort, telling the compelling stories of this area from the early 16th Century until modern times. Through community engagement, children’s programs, educational opportunities and social events the Museum provides many services to visitors and local residents. To contact the Museum call 843.379.3079 or info@beauforthistorymuseum.com.

2015 Exhibits and New Board Members Announced

The historic Arsenal, which was constructed in 1798, is located on Craven Street in downtown Beaufort. It is home to the Beaufort History Museum. Additional photos available upon request.

Beaufort, SC – February 18, 2015 – The Beaufort History Museum held it’s annual meeting on Monday, February 9, at the museum’s main hall.  More than fifty museum members and guests attended.

President Anna Schaffer reported that 2014 was an historic year for the museum, which saw a move back to the Arsenal boost public interest in its exhibits and fuel a dramatic increase in visitors.  She predicted that the coming year would be even more dynamic, with several exhibits and a variety of events planned.

“The past year was very busy for us and due to the hard work of our Board, Docents and volunteers we were able to successfully move from our former site in City Hall to The Arsenal”, Schaffer said.  “This required a significant amount of coordination and labor, but once we completed our transition everything moved forward in an extremely positive way.  Now we are preparing for some very informative and interesting exhibits and a major spring fundraiser.”

The upcoming exhibit openings and events include:

• May 3 – Textile Exhibit: A presentation of period dress including undergarments, clothing, hats, jewelry and accessories.
• May 12 – Spring Fundraiser:  Revealed! The Intimate Secrets of a Victorian   Woman. Celebrated author and historic reenactor Kim Poovey opens a door to an opulent past as she recreates the “corsets to crinolines” female dressing rituals of the Victorian age at a lavish Tea Party at Dataw Island.
• October 1–31 – Hoodoo – That Old Black Magic still lives in Beaufort County.  Brought by the slaves from West Africa to plantations of the Lowcountry, this blending of Christianity, herb medicine and the supernatural makes for spellbinding stories of Boo Hags, Conjure Women and Witch Doctors.  The Hoodoo Exhibit is an imaginative creation by artists Bernice and Andy Tate.
• November 1- January 2016 – Our Yard Farm Home:  Photographs and memories of 20th Century St. Helena Island by Sonny and Elizabeth Later Bishop.

Among the other business conducted at the annual meeting, four members were named to the Board of Directors.  Donnie Beer, Lorrie Burleyknoles, Carol Lauvray and Carla Marsh were elected to serve three-year terms.

Mayor Billy Keyserling spoke briefly at the meeting.  He stressed the importance of the museum’s mission, which is to tell the story of Beaufort’s history to visitors as well as local residents.  He also had encouraging words about the organization’s success in the past year.

Kim Poovey, dressed in Victorian garb, presented an entertaining performance showcasing “the language of the fan”, explaining the many ways that a Victorian lady communicated with prospective suitors simply by how she held her fan. Following the meeting many of the members and guests left the Arsenal and walked the short distance to the Beaufort Inn to extend the convivial spirit of the event and to enjoy a delicious prearranged dinner.

 The Beaufort History Museum has evolved to focus specifically on the history of the Beaufort District.     It strives to manage and display artifacts and documents held by the City of Beaufort, telling the compelling stories of this area from the early 16^th Century until modern times.

The Arsenal address is 713 Craven Street. The BHM hours of operation are 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Monday–Saturday and Noon – 5 PM on Sunday. Docents are on duty to provide information and conduct tours. A donation of $5.00 per visitor ($4.00 for Seniors) is required.  Children and active military are admitted free of charge.  The organization maintains a website at www.beauforthistorymuseum.com.

Beaufort, SC – February 18, 2015 – The Beaufort History Museum held it’s annual meeting on Monday, February 9, at the museum’s main hall.  More than fifty museum members and guests attended.

President Anna Schaffer reported that 2014 was an historic year for the museum, which saw a move back to the Arsenal boost public interest in its exhibits and fuel a dramatic increase in visitors.  She predicted that the coming year would be even more dynamic, with several exhibits and a variety of events planned.

“The past year was very busy for us and due to the hard work of our Board, Docents and volunteers we were able to successfully move from our former site in City Hall to The Arsenal”, Schaffer said.  “This required a significant amount of coordination and labor, but once we completed our transition everything moved forward in an extremely positive way.  Now we are preparing for some very informative and interesting exhibits and a major spring fundraiser.”

The upcoming exhibit openings and events include:

• May 3 – Textile Exhibit: A presentation of period dress including undergarments, clothing, hats, jewelry and accessories.
• May 12 – Spring Fundraiser:  Revealed! The Intimate Secrets of a Victorian   Woman. Celebrated author and historic reenactor Kim Poovey opens a door to an opulent past as she recreates the “corsets to crinolines” female dressing rituals of the Victorian age at a lavish Tea Party at Dataw Island.
• October 1–31 – Hoodoo – That Old Black Magic still lives in Beaufort County.  Brought by the slaves from West Africa to plantations of the Lowcountry, this blending of Christianity, herb medicine and the supernatural makes for spellbinding stories of Boo Hags, Conjure Women and Witch Doctors.  The Hoodoo Exhibit is an imaginative creation by artists Bernice and Andy Tate.
• November 1- January 2016 – Our Yard Farm Home:  Photographs and memories of 20th Century St. Helena Island by Sonny and Elizabeth Later Bishop.

Among the other business conducted at the annual meeting, four members were named to the Board of Directors.  Donnie Beer, Lorrie Burleyknoles, Carol Lauvray and Carla Marsh were elected to serve three-year terms.

Mayor Billy Keyserling spoke briefly at the meeting.  He stressed the importance of the museum’s mission, which is to tell the story of Beaufort’s history to visitors as well as local residents.  He also had encouraging words about the organization’s success in the past year.

Kim Poovey, dressed in Victorian garb, presented an entertaining performance showcasing “the language of the fan”, explaining the many ways that a Victorian lady communicated with prospective suitors simply by how she held her fan. Following the meeting many of the members and guests left the Arsenal and walked the short distance to the Beaufort Inn to extend the convivial spirit of the event and to enjoy a delicious prearranged dinner.

Patrons of the Fall Festival of Houses and Gardens, conducted by the Historic Beaufort Foundation, can enjoy an added attraction this year: They will also have the chance to visit the Beaufort History Museum and learn about the deep, rich history of the area.

“It is all possible because the Beaufort History Museum has moved back to the Arsenal,” said museum board president Anna Schaffer.  “People attending the festival will be picking up their tickets in The Arsenal courtyard.  The museum is located just upstairs.  It’s a perfect fit and we are delighted to be able to offer this opportunity.”

Isabella Reeves, the festival’s special-events coordinator, said that the Historic Beaufort Foundation has been hosting the popular house and garden tours for more than 40 years “Understanding the incredibly interesting history of this area and the background of the historic district can add to the experience, ” she said.

The Fall Festival of Houses and Gardens is scheduled for October 24-26.  Featured are tours of more than a dozen historic homes and properties, including the newly refurbished Lemon Island Marina, now the home of the Port Royal Foundation Maritime Center.   There is also a Kitchens & Cuisine tour on Sunday, with local chefs creating their specialties in houses downtown and on Lady’s Island.

For more information on the Fall Festival of Houses and Gardens and to purchase tickets for the tour email events@historicbeaufort.org, call843-379-3331 or visit www.historicbeaufort.org.   Tickets to the Beaufort History Museum may be purchased in the visitor center at the reception desk on the first floor of The Arsenal.

Noted Beaufort educator and author Bernie Schein will sign copies of his new book, “Famous All Over Town,” at a reception in the courtyard at The Arsenal, hosted by the Beaufort History Museum.

Schein’s ellow author and friend, Pat Conroy, and his wife, the writer Cassandra King, and other friends and family will be on hand to welcome guests and toast the success of the new book.  The party is scheduled for 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 25. Complimentary wine, beer and a selection of cheeses and fruit will be served. This is an invitation-only event and space is limited. 

“We are delighted to join with Bernie’s friends to host the book signing,” said museum board member and past president Katherine Lang. “It is really a hometown party and the first event we have held at The Arsenal since the museum moved back a few months ago.  Bernie’s new book is about growing up in Beaufort and just seems tailor-made for us. We will have copies of the book, signed by Bernie, available for sale.”

Famous All Over Town is receiving glowing reviews.  Here is what Conroy wrote: “ Like its author, this ambitious novel is by turns hysterically funny, wildly neurotic, uniquely sensitive and heartbreakingly honest. Bernie has staked his claim on the literary landscape of the South with his unforgettable small town of equally unforgettable Jews, whites, blacks, marines, politicians, prostitutes, cops, killers, sell-outs, aristocrats, journalists and rebels. He shies away from neither the best nor worse in us and, with compassion and authority, tells a story that is at once his own and that of everyone you will ever meet, each made famous all over town.”

Five years after leaving The Arsenal, the Beaufort History Museum collection is returning to the historic building at the corner of Craven and Carteret streets.   

City public-works employees and museum volunteers took care of the heavy lifting this week, moving artifacts from City Hall at 1911 Boundary St., where the museum has been for two years.

The museum will create a temporary display on the second floor until a more permanent exhibit can be created, board president Anna Schaffer told The Beaufort Gazette in an article published Aug. 2, 2014. Brockington and Associates, a cultural-resources consulting company, has been contracted to create the long-term display of artifacts, she said.

City public works employees and volunteers worked Aug. 1, 2014, to move artificats and exhibits of the Beaufort History Museum back into The Arsenal after a five-year absence. Staff photo

For more, see the Beaufort Gazette’s full article.

Katherine Lang, museum board member and past president, and museum supporter Terry Hussey discuss the exhibit’s artwork.

 

Artists, friends, family and supporters of the Beaufort History Museum sipped wine, enjoyed the music of the Beaufort Youth String Quartet and toured a retrospective art exhibit that honored members of the Fine Arts Committee, a group active in the l960s that procured many fine pieces for the museum.

The event, held June 9 at the museum’s current City Hall location, showcased pieces in the museum’s own collection as well as the work of local artists and works with a local influence.

The Beaufort History Museum was originally chartered in 1939. It has evolved to focus specifically on the deep and rich history of the Beaufort District.    It strives to manage and display artifacts and documents held by the City of Beaufort, telling the compelling stories of this area from the early 16th Century until modern times. Through community engagement, children’s programs, educational opportunities and social events the Museum provides many services to visitors and local residents.

The Beaufort History Museum is currently located at 1911 Boundary Street on the first floor of the Beaufort City Hall. It will be relocating to the Arsenal (713 Craven St.) after July 14, 2014.

Docents Mary Mollison and Carol Lauvray with featured art.

The Beaufort History Museum is preparing for its move back home to The Arsenal, but we’ve got time for one more big bash before departing our current home at Beaufort City Hall. The museum is displaying a special retrospective to honor the work of the museum’s Fine Arts Committee, featuring pieces of local interest and art by notable local artists.

The exhibit opened June 9 with a gala for invited guests and remains open to the public during regular hours through June 24.

“We are extremely excited by this opportunity to host an event to honor the Fine Arts Committee, which was so instrumental in procuring pieces of art for the museum’s permanent collection,” board president Anna Schaffer said.  “This is especially important since it is the final exhibit at the museum’s current location before we move to our new space at The Arsenal in Beaufort’s historic district.”

Schaffer said that the Museum will display local art and art with a local influence for a period of 12 business days at the City Hall location before the museum’s move.  Invitations to an opening event were sent to area art associations and galleries, as well as families associated with the art on display.

Visitors from the community will be welcome at the museum during regular museum hours.

The board also will host a mid-week social for the Young Friends of the Museum at Wined it Up, the Bay Street wine bar.  Selected pieces of art will be displayed.

The special exhibit is a nod to an important part of the museum’s own history. In the 1960s, the Fine Arts Committee was formed to procure pieces of art for the museum’s permanent collection. Many community leaders served on this committee. Even as the museum suffered otherwise lean years in the 1970s, the Fine Arts Committee remained strong, with active volunteers who continued to put on quality exhibits with guest artists and the museum’s own collection.

In addition to artists throughout the country, the Fine Arts Committee also actively sought local artists to donate to the collection as well. Many of the pieces in the current collection are the results of the efforts of this committee. More than 50 pieces of art are currently being stored in the museum.

The Beaufort History Museum was originally chartered in 1939. It has evolved to focus specifically on the deep and rich history of the Beaufort District. It strives to manage and display artifacts and documents held by the City of Beaufort, telling the compelling stories of this area, from the early 16th century until modern times. Through community engagement, children’s programs, educational opportunities and social events the museum provides many services to visitors and local residents. It is located at 1911 Boundary St., on the first floor of Beaufort City Hall, but will relocate sometime after July 14 to The Arsenal at 713 Craven Street.

Click here to view WJCL coverage of the event...

Hours of operation are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, with docents on duty to provide information and conduct tours. A donation of $3 per adult visitor is suggested.