An Elegant Event Launched
A Year-Long Celebration of Maritime Heritage

The Custom House Maritime Museum (CHMM) invited the community to embark on a celebratory voyage at its Seafaring Soiree gala on September 19th, 2024, at the Blue Ocean Music Hall. This prestigious event kicked off a year-long celebration of the Museum’s golden anniversary, aligning with the nation’s 250th jubilee.

The Seafaring Soiree was an evening of elegance, community spirit, and historical maritime significance. Guests enjoyed an elegant dinner, dancing, entertainment and auction.

“Our 50th anniversary gala was both a tribute to our rich past and a launching point for our ambitious future,” said Susan Finneran, Co-Chair.

The anniversary year heralded transformative initiatives for the museum, including:

• A comprehensive renovation of the iconic Robert Mills-designed building;
• Unveiling of new exhibitions and introduction of an interactive kids’ Discovery Center;
• Meticulous cataloging and preservation of the museum’s 6,000-item collection;
• The opening of the museum’s time capsule placed in the cornerstone of the building 50 years ago;
• Publication of a handsome Commemorative Book celebrating 50 years of accomplishment.

The anniversary celebration highlighted the museum’s position as a vibrant community hub and a leading cultural institution in the greater Newburyport area.

“The support of our sponsors is instrumental in preserving our maritime heritage and propelling us into a future of excellence and community service,” added Susan Bernhard, Gala Co-Chair.

“On behalf of my fellow Directors, I am grateful to Jennifer Germain, Susan Bernhard and Susan Finneran for co-chairing this important gala and kicking off these celebrations that will elevate the museum to its next level of success,” states Jack Santos, President, Board of Directors. “What a wonderful way to celebrate the founding of this museum, the 50th year of Newburyport’s renaissance, and the start of the 250th celebration of our nation’s founding.”