OCT 21, 2015 – CDA Fall Benefit Supports MVHMG Education Programs

“Turning Points”, the theme of the 2015 fall benefit for The Mount Vernon Hotel Museum & Garden, celebrated the Colonial Dames of America in the 1960s and 70s, by whose efforts the Society restored the museum, conserved its collection, purchased the adjoining property for offices, and set the museum on course for national accreditation and honors.

Nearly one hundred Dames and other supporters gathered to honor Past President General Courtney Garland Iglehart (1971-1978), one of the remarkable women at the heart of this effort. Mrs. Iglehart’s lively remarks recalled the leaders of these stellar accomplishments and outlined the challenges they faced.

Dames and other museum supporters came together for cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and both a live and a silent auction. Beverley Sherrid was Chair of the benefit. Earlier the same day, President General Sharon Vaino entertained the evening’s Benefactors for afternoon tea at a private club in New York City.

The evening was a great success, raising more that $50,000 for the museum’s education programs. Dames from all over the world attended the benefit and contributed to its auctions, demonstrating that the Mount Vernon Hotel Museum & Garden is truly the headquarters of the Colonial Dames of America.