 Old West Side Grade School The Broward County Historical Commission and Museum will host a grand opening of their new home, located in the historic West Side Grade School building, on Thursday, February 4, at 4:30 p.m. at 301 S.W. 13 Ave. (Harmon Avenue) in Fort Lauderdale.
The rehabilitated West Side Grade School building, located in the heart of Fort Lauderdale's Sailboat Bend Historic District, provides the Historical Commission with much needed new gallery and community room meeting space, as well as expanded and enhanced facilities for a research library, historical archives and archeological and historical artifacts. The public is invited to attend the grand opening celebration. In preparation for the grand opening, Broward County Mayor Ken Keechl said, "Broward County has an amazing collection of archeological and historic photos, mementos and artifacts that most people have not had the opportunity to see. This new museum is the perfect venue to discover the history that makes Broward so unique today." Commissioner John Rodstrom, who was instrumental in the development of the nearby Sailboat Bend Artist's Lofts and the rehabilitation of the West Side Grade School, said, "It is very appropriate that the County's Historical Commission should find its home in the second oldest school in Broward County. It is a tribute to our respect for the past that Broward's unique history and heritage will be showcased in this rehabilitated facility. History buffs and students, adults and children, will all find this a comfortable place to explore Broward's past."
Highlights of the grand opening ceremony include: - welcoming ceremonies featuring Broward County Mayor Ken Keechl and Fort Lauderdale Mayor John P. "Jack" Seiler
- tours of the gallery, research library and archives
- new gallery exhibit on Historic Sailboat Bend
- light refreshments and performances by Fort Lauderdale Children's Theatre, Florida Youth Orchestra, and 1310: Artists at Sailboat Bend
Regular operating hours for the Broward County Historical Commission and Museum are 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday. For more information, call 954-357-5553 or visit www.broward.org/history. |