Lewes Historical Society Complex gains popularity as events venue
The Lewes Historical Society Complex in downtown Lewes at 110 Shipcarpenter St. is gaining a reputation as a marvelous venue for hosting events. The society welcomes the public to reserve the property for occasions such as family reunions, employee recognition parties, weddings, workshops and more.
Recently, a group of tango dancers came to the society to request space to practice. The leader of the tango group, Nicole Voutsina, acknowledges the Midway Schoolhouse as the perfect venue for the group to practice their dance, enjoy a sense of community, support interrelationships and develop movement. She says, “What better place to meet together, have fun, socialize and dance while enjoying the ambiance of the historical grounds?”
In fact, Voutsina would like to begin offering free tango lessons to any Lewes Historical Society member. To take advantage of this offer or to become a member, contact info@historiclewes.org or call 302-645-7670.
The Lewes Historical Society also welcomes Sprouting Chefs to use the complex for kids’ cooking classes and birthday parties. Owner Katie Freer enjoys the property. “I’m thrilled to use the Lewes Historical Society Complex as a space for Sprouting Chefs. To me, the society and its grounds act as the heart of Lewes, bringing together our community in a warm and inviting space. The children enjoy exploring the natural landscape and learning about our town’s history.” Sprouting Chefs also utilizes the Historic Lewes Farmers Market for cooking materials and learning about seasonal fruits and vegetables.
The Historic Lewes Farmers Market takes place at the Lewes Historical Society Complex almost every Saturday, May through October. It is the perfect place for local farmers and other local vendors to display and sell their products and promote healthy living. The public enjoys coming to these events because it’s family friendly, inviting, educational, and provides an outlet to support local businesses by purchasing locally grown produce.
The Lewes Historical Society Complex is also enjoyed by couples and their families for weddings and reunions. The lovely landscape of natural beauty and historic charm combine to create a beautiful shaded outdoor group event venue. Lewes Mayor Jim Ford’s daughter, Maren, recently had her wedding reception on the property. Maren said, “Ryan and I looked at several places in and around Lewes and decided that the Lewes Historical Society Complex was the place. It had everything we wanted. The large outside space allowed our young guests to explore and our older guest to mingle. The buildings were a great touch of rustic ambiance that fit with our do-it-yourself vintage feel. We couldn't have been happier with the blooming hydrangeas and the large trees that provided a canopy to keep the wedding intimate. The space was perfect to host a large group of people of all ages.”
The Lewes Historical Society uses the property to preserve historical buildings, educate the public with tours and hold events such as the Sea Glass Festival and craft fairs, but the society also invites the public to consider the complex as a venue for a special event. Executive Director Mike DiPaolo is pleased for the complex to be actively used, “We support utilizing the property for community events, business affairs and individual special occasions. Our grounds are a beautiful backdrop for all types of happenings. It is an exceptional setting.”
For more information on how to reserve the Lewes Historical Society Complex, email LHS Executive Assistant Cassandra Carr at cassandra@historiclewes.org, or call 302-645-7670. See historiclewes.org to learn more about the society.
