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November 28, 2018 — (Key West, FL). Cruise back to the 40s at Key West Art & Historical Society’s Third Annual “Back In Time” Fundraising Bash on December 5

Prepare to embark on an evening of Swing Era nostalgic fun and glamour at Key West Art & Historical Society’s “Back In Time – Cruise to the 40s” fundraiser, taking place Wednesday, December 5. Proceeds support the ongoing preservation needs of Key West’s architectural crown jewel, the historic Custom House, now celebrating its 127thanniversary.

Festivities kick off at 5:00pm with celebratory cocktails on the beautiful veranda of the Custom House Museum, 281 Front Street. At 6:30pm, revelers will step over to the Margaritaville Resort and Marina’s Grand Ballroom – magically transformed into a luxury cruise liner, the “S.S. KWAHS.”

1940s attire is encouraged; dress like a famous 40s movie star, big band celebrity, war hero/heroine, or your best Key West interpretation of one. Back in Time guests can dine in elegant 40s sea cruise style, dance the night away to the big sounds of the Southernmost Brass Band, take a swing dance lesson with Lucy Carleton, bid on really swell silent auction items, compete for best-dressed prizes, and raise a rousing toast to Brewster Chamberlin, author, historian, and recipient of the 2018 Scotti Merrill Preservation Award – an annual accolade that honors an individual who has dedicated him or herself to preserving the cultural heritage of the Florida Keys, with special emphasis on the Custom House.

“The Custom House building was in near-derelict condition when The Society became stewards of the county-owned building in 1991,” said Michael Gieda, Society Executive Director. “The late Scotti Merrill, along with the Society’s original leadership and other islanders passionate about historic preservation, spearheaded a monumental renovation project, a mission that our current Society team and supporters continue today, supported by grants, donations, and fundraisers like the annual “Back in Time” galas.”

Join the Party. Step “Back in Time” to invest in the future; Purchase a single ticket for $125 or sponsor a table for $1,250, $2,500, $5,000, $10,00 or more—proceeds will be contributed to the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys’ Custom House Preservation Fund. For tickets visit KWAHS.ORG (click “Tickets”) or contact Danielle Holliday at 305-295-6616 x 114.

Photo caption and credit:

The Southernmost Brass Band will be serving up music to swing and romance to at the December 5 Key West Art & Historical Society “Back In Time” fundraising gala, a themed costume event at the Custom House Museum and Margaritaville Resort that supports the Custom House building’s preservation fund. (Photo courtesy The 1940s Ball Colorado/Ignite Images)