Warwick Historical Society hosts 48th annual Party in the Park

On Saturday evening, Aug. 24, almost 200 guests gathered both outside and under the huge tent in Lewis Park in the Village of Warwick.

There were craft beverages provided by Pennings Cidery and the Glenmere Brewing Company, a signature cocktail created by the Warwick Valley Winery and Distillery, wine courtesy of Pecks Wine and Spirits and dinner by Grappa Ristorante.

All of that along with picture perfect weather, the music of the E'lissa Jones Band. the company of friends and neighbors, helped make the Warwick Historical Society's 48th annual Party in the Park another huge success.

It was also a night to celebrate "Engaging Our Communities," all in support of the Historical Society's mission, to preserve and celebrate the history of the Town of Warwick and its people by engaging and educating the public regarding thing of historical relevance.

This year the Historical Society recognized the many contributions of the Warwick Fire Department, which, for 150 years, has ensured the safety of the Town of Warwick and its residents.

And during the evening, Mary Ann Knight, president of the Historical Society, and Executive Director Nora Gurich welcomed guests, local officials and state Sen. Jen Metzger, who presented a State Senate Award to the Warwick Fire Department and its volunteer firefighters.

The Party in the Park, formerly known as the Under the Tent Party, is the Historical Society's major fund raiser and proceeds from this event are still being tabulated.

For more than 100 years the society has been the caretaker of many precious properties, including Lewis Park and the Old School Baptist MeetingHouse. The Shingle House, for example, which is the oldest building in the Village of Warwick, is currently undergoing renovations.

Anyone wishing to donate to the Historical Society or become a member can call 986-3236 or visit warwickhistoricalsociety.org.

- Roger Gavan