The Boca Raton presented an event to remember in celebration of “WWII in Florida,” the new major exhibition on view at The Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum. More than 200 guests were transported to a bygone era, showcasing the iconic resort’s historic role in World War II and honoring veterans, past and present. It goes without saying the profound impact that World War II had on all facets of life. These were tumultuous, uncertain times, but people escaped the realities by coming together for some fun. With that spirit in mind, event co-chairs Emily Snyder and George Petrocelli of The Boca Raton, along with the planning committee comprised of several Boca Raton Historical Society board members, ensured that the essence of the 1940s was brought to life.
The attention to detail was unparalleled. Aside from the bunting on the glamorous wrap around staircase, the official flag of that period with 48 stars hung over the stage. Then again, it’s no surprise when you have two hospitality greats at the helm. “We are an iconic resort with an amazing history and as The Boca Raton’s visionary President and Chief Executive Officer Daniel Hostettler shared during his remarks, the hotel was known as the ‘best barracks in the world,’” comments Snyder. She further adds that, “Highlighting our fascinating past in this community that we love is truly important as The Boca Raton enters a ‘a new golden era’ through all of its renovations and programming.”
Serving as the ideal backdrop for a nostalgic evening of music, dancing, culinary buffet and libations, The Valencia Ballroom was chosen for symbolic reasons. Petrocelli shares, “In March of 1942 the Army Air Force Technical Training Command decided to move its newly established radar training school to Boca Raton. While the base was under construction, the military needed a temporary home and we were it. Needless to say, The Boca Raton Club wasn’t a typical setting for many of the Officers or Cadets. The Valencia Ballroom was used for training films and Hollywood movies. It became obvious this is where the celebration had to be!”
Although the event’s attire stated cocktail, many guests took the 1940s as inspiration to serve up looks reminiscent of the times. “Military uniforms influenced both men and women’s fashions and it became acceptable for women to wear trousers. Shortage of supplies like textiles meant skirts were shorter and utility of dress became paramount even for couture,” notes Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum Curator Susan Gillis. It was fun to see how guests interpreted the styles of that period and made them relevant for today, bypassing the risk of looking so-called ‘costume-y.’
An Officers Party is not complete without live entertainment. Sponsored by Festival of the Arts BOCA, six musicians and three singers graced the stage with pizzazz and authenticity. Joanna Kaye, Executive Director of the Festival of the Arts BOCA and one of the singers, explains that “We wanted to be true to the period. We only performed music written before 1945 and performed in the style of the 1940s.” Worth mentioning, Kaye adds that, “On March 10, the Festival will closeout this year’s program lineup with a true big band by the Festival Boca Jazz Orchestra and featuring the same instrumentation that Benny Goodman and Tommy Dorsey would have had.”
Of course, the menu was curated with dishes popular then, including deviled eggs, individual Waldorf salad servings, five peppered tenderloin, radiatori pasta Bolognese and miniature confetti cupcakes. Drinks flowed courtesy of sponsor Republic National Distributing Company. Boca Raton Airport also supported the event, a meaningful sponsorship with its strong historical ties.
As we say, all good things must come to an end, but although the party is over, the exhibit is now open for all to enjoy. “This profound exhibit showcases artifacts, stories and memories that reflect the courage, resilience and unwavering spirit of Floridians, who, in the face of great challenges, united to support the war effort,” says Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum Executive Director Mary Csar. “Supplementing this exhibit are items from our collection, together with the Delray Beach Historical Society, to highlight our hometown heroes.”
The Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum
Now open to the public Wednesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., located in historic Town Hall at 71 N. Federal Highway.
“WWII in Florida” is on view until May 17, 2024
For more information, visit BocaHistory.org
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