by Karen Barter, Director of Development
The House of the Seven Gables held an evening party at The Clarence Clarke House (c. 1894) on April 9th to honor select donors, the Board of Trustees and their guests. Homeowners, Steve & Darcy Immerman hosted the affair in their beautiful home. Kara McLaughlin, The Gables’ Executive Director, greeted the attendees and thanked them for their support. She commended Steve & Darcy Immerman for their hospitality and support of The Gables. “The House of the Seven Gables was opened as a museum in 1910 by Caroline Emmerton to fund educational programs and services for immigrant families that helped them ‘settle’ into their new community. ‘The Settlement Movement’, a visionary cause had begun in England and was adopted here by individuals of means who chose to make their life’s work purposeful in service to others.
Ms. Emmerton saved a number of historic houses from demolition building a campus of eight historic houses and broadening the visitor’s experience. The dual mission of education and preservation continues to this day.” Kara explained. “However, the financial woes of the past decade have created a challenge of deferred maintenance on the eight historic houses in our stewardship. The original model of admission fees funding everything no longer applies. Fundraising has become the only solution. In this time of need, we ask for your help!
Please reach out to your friends, tell our story and become a part of the solution. Where else can one gift preserve a piece of history and support educational programs for children? Preserve the Past. Empower the Future.
There are many ways to get involved. Please talk to us about volunteering, planned giving, a pledge, bequest, giving a party like this one at your home, or introducing us to someone who could help. Thanks to the support of donors like you, this National Historic Landmark District will be here for generations to come. We salute your generosity!” Donors were treated to the culinary talents of Vini Kutru of The Adriatic Restaurant, while renowned pianist, Jacqueline Schwab, played a selection of nostalgic melodies.