An Evening To Remember: Halsey House Gala Celebrates Preservation, Community, & Summer

The Southampton History Museum welcomed guests to its annual Halsey House Gala on Saturday, July 5, for a celebration of local history, community, and Southampton summer traditions. Held in the gardens of the storied Thomas Halsey House, one of the oldest English colonial dwellings in New York State, the benefit drew friends, supporters, and neighbors for a joyful night of food, music, and celebration.

This year’s honorees, Cheryl L. Carter and Edward R. Donnovan, were presented with a proclamation by Southampton Village Mayor William Manger Jr. and a citation from NYS Assembly Member Rebecca A. Seawright, recognizing their contributions towards restoring the grounds at historic Rogers Mansion.

Guests sipped drinks provided by Herbert & Rist, food catered by Events by RHC, and danced to live music from D@’Band. The evening also featured a live and silent auction, emceed by Bill McCuddy, with one-of-a-kind items generously donated by local artists, businesses, and friends of the museum.

“This gathering was a beautiful reminder of what we can do when we come together to celebrate and protect our collective history,” said Sarah Kautz, executive director, “On behalf of the museum’s trustees, staff, and membership, I am so grateful to our honorees, donors, and guests, and to everyone who made this night so meaningful.”

This year’s gala committee was chaired by Jean Shafiroff, author of “Successful Philanthropy: How to Make A Life By What You Give.” Other committee members included Averitt Buttry, Mary Slattery, Nancy Kane, and Alexandra Halsey-Storch. NYS Assembly Member Seawright also presented citations recognizing Jean Shafiroff’s philanthropic work as well as the Southampton History Museum’s contributions to preserving New York State history.

“The museum extends special thanks to Jean Shafiroff, whose leadership and care helped make the evening such a resounding success. And to artist Lynn Mara, for her generous donation of her painting, ‘You Are The Stars,’ as the official poster for this year’s event,” read a statement from the museum.

To learn more about the museum’s upcoming programs or to support its mission, visit southamptonhistory.org.