This two-day event returns to the Long Beach Museum

The Long Beach Historical Society welcomed the holiday season with its annual holiday boutique, a two-day event that showcased the many talents of local artists on Dec. 2 and 3.

For several years, the historical society has been curating this boutique, featuring an array of creations by Long Beach artists. Sue Friedman, the head of fundraising for the society, is the one who put the boutique together this year.

“We had photography, paintings, wooden crafts, and floral crafts, as well as jewelry and jeweled artwork,” society member Karen Adamo said. “Our gift shop has Long Beach items and history books. The author of the Silver Strand book, Dennis Carey, was there to autograph his books.”

The book focuses on historical figures such as Oscar Wilde, and the history of the city is told through the eyes of the characters. A fictional survivor of the real-life 1837 shipwreck of the Mexico, which sank off the barrier island, sets off the long story of Long Beach’s transformation.

Vendors included Scott Ferrone specializing in photography, Stu Friedman with paintings, Gianna Palazzo with Tide Line creations, Yvonne Santana with jewelry, Bev Silberstang crafting soaps and candles, Karen Hirsch presenting Bijoux Box Art, Robinwood Boards, and Stitch Craft L.I.

The boutique experienced a steady flow of visitors, with over 200 attendees between the two days.

The Long Beach Historical Society Museum itself underwent a festive transformation, decked with holiday decorations that set the perfect backdrop for the season’s cheer.

A particular highlight was the enchanting Long Beach Christmas tree, curated by Roberta Fiore and her daughters. Decorated with ornaments representing Senator Reynolds estates’ white stucco homes with red tile roofs, the tree showcased miniature replicas of a Clocktower resembling the original City Hall, a fire engine, policemen, and a Model T-Ford—all a tribute to early Long Beach.

“It’s truly one of the most beautiful trees I’ve ever seen,” Adamo said. “It’s worth a trip to the museum to see it.”

For those who missed the holiday boutique, the museum will remain open for tours, and the gift shop continues to offer a selection of last-minute gift options. Visitors are encouraged to drop by on Dec. 10 and 17 from 1 to 4 p.m.

The society held its annual holiday boutique last year on Saturday, Dec. 3 and Sunday, Dec. 4. Harvey Weisenberg presented the society with a check for $25,000 to help get their much-needed renovations started that Sunday.

The donation was the largest donation the Society had ever received and improved its chances of renovation greatly.