On a crisp October evening, the worlds of Palm Beach and New York society converged at Manhattan’s storied Metropolitan Club for an intimate celebration of history, heritage, and philanthropy. Hosted by Barbara and Frank Sciame and Kelly and Andrew Sciame, the October 23 reception welcomed a distinguished gathering of cultural patrons, philanthropists, and society figures in support of the Historical Society of Palm Beach County and its prestigious 1916 Society.
The elegant Cocktails & Canapés affair underscored the enduring connection between two communities whose social and philanthropic circles have long intertwined. Against the Metropolitan Club’s grand architectural backdrop, guests mingled over cocktails while learning about the Historical Society’s mission to preserve the remarkable stories, traditions, and cultural legacy of Palm Beach County.
Andrew Sciame, Founder and CEO of Sciame | Palm Beach and a member of the Historical Society’s Board of Governors, welcomed guests alongside his family, reflecting their commitment to preserving the distinctive character and heritage of Palm Beach.
The evening featured remarks from Jeremy Johnson, President and CEO of the Historical Society of Palm Beach County, who shared updates on the organization’s expanding exhibitions, educational initiatives, and preservation efforts. Bill Bone, Chairman of the 1916 Society, spoke to the significance of the philanthropic membership group and its role in safeguarding the region’s history for generations to come.
Among the evening’s distinguished Host Committee were celebrated chef Daniel Boulud and Katherine Boulud; Maria and Kenneth Fishel; Amanda Starbuck Hanlon and Trey Hanlon; Susan Magrino; Jean and Martin Shafiroff; Sarah and Andrew Wetenhall; and Eric Viner and Dr. Jordan Wise. Additional committee members included Chris Coffee, Chris Meigher, Donna Simonelli and Matthew Decker, and Grace and Randolph Walker.
At the heart of the gathering was the 1916 Society, the Historical Society’s premier philanthropic membership circle. Through annual commitments of $10,000, its members provide essential support for archival preservation and digitization, exhibitions, and educational programming. The Society also offers its patrons a thoughtfully curated calendar of exclusive gatherings and cultural experiences, creating meaningful opportunities to engage with Palm Beach County’s history.
The evening was made possible through the generous support of sponsors including Sciame | Palm Beach, Sciame Construction New York, GRAFF, Elie Saab, Paul Labrecque, and The Hedges Inn.
For an organization devoted to preserving the past, the reception was equally a celebration of the future. As Palm Beach continues to evolve as an international destination for culture, philanthropy, and society, the Historical Society remains committed to ensuring that its heritage is never forgotten.
And on this particular autumn evening in Manhattan, the spirit of Palm Beach was very much in attendance.
