Former Boynton Beach Historical Society President Message

A Message to our Boynton Beach Historical Society Family

March 2021

Standing in the Florida Reading Room now located on the second floor of the Boynton Beach City Library, I am grateful for a large comfortable room dedicated to Florida books and journals.  This room has one of the best views in the city.  Looking out a large window you see Ocean Avenue and the old Boynton High School majestically restored.  So many people have commented to me about this cultural gem that sparkles in the heart of our downtown for all people.

The old high school was saved from the wrecking ball at the last moment by the Boynton Beach Historical Society, fellow citizens and city leaders.  This old building has strong bones and was a place of refuge for many people during the 1928 hurricane.  I see new trees growing and a joyful children’s park.  Children can be seen playing on the swings, running around and laughing.  An attractive black fence keeps the children safe.  Here is history unfolding in 2021 during the pandemic.

Randall Gill, Boynton Beach Historical Society President

Randall Gill, Boynton Beach Historical Society President

The Reading Room also provides a view of Seacrest Boulevard, the historic First United Methodist Church and the Schoolhouse Children’s Museum.  Kinetic art installations give Boynton Beach a modern vibe for the future.  It is quiet in the Reading Room.  It is an oasis of Florida history with fascinating books about Seminoles, shipwrecks, sea captains, farmers, pioneers, nature, birds, and the Everglades.  Drop by sometime and pick up a book and look out a window where you will see a city full of possibilities.

We have launched virtual programs this season with great success.  We appreciate all our members and friends who support our work and are happy to welcome recent new members.  Technology, in its best form, allows us to continue to be together during this pandemic.  We hope you will join us for future programs.

Warmly,

Randall Gill

 

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About Janet DeVries Naughton

Janet DeVries Naughton is the past president of the Boynton Beach Historical Society and an academic librarian and history professor at Palm Beach State College. The intrepid historic researcher and award winning author has contributed to and published over a dozen local history books. She has over two decades of experience in Florida libraries, museums and archives, and is available as a consultant for family history projects, books and personal archival collections.

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