The Boca Raton Historical Society (BRHS) held its signature sold-out event, Toasts, Tastes & Trolleys, on Friday, September 12, offering supporters an evening of culinary experiences, historic landmarks, and behind-the-scenes tours throughout Boca Raton and beyond. The event underscores the society's ongoing efforts to preserve and share the city's history through community engagement.
According to Dawn Zook, Committee Chair, the event reflects the community's values of connection and curiosity. The progressive tour began at The Boca Raton with a welcome reception, after which guests boarded vintage Molly's Trolleys for curated routes to five exclusive destinations. These included rarely seen executive suites and historic sites, with wine, beer, and light bites provided along the way.
An early highlight occurred at FAU Stadium, where Florida Atlantic University President Adam Hasner welcomed guests to the exclusive President's Box, offering a rare behind-the-scenes view of the iconic institution. At each stop, volunteer guides and BRHS committee members shared stories of the locations' roles in shaping Boca Raton's history and future. Tourgoers visited the new offices of Paradise Bank, the Opal Grand Resort & Spa in Delray Beach, and Kasumi at the Waterstone Resort & Marina.
A nostalgic stop at City of Boca Raton Fire Station #3 featured retired Fire Chief Tom Wood and the city's original 1925 fire engine, “Old Betsy.” Attendees took photos beside the station's historical marker, installed last year through BRHS efforts. The event was organized by committee members including Laura Malone, Lauri Saunders, Ashley Huxhold, Reilly Glasser, Milena DeLuca, Karen Larkan, Roxana Garciga, Andrea Chang, Erika Merano, Executive Director Mary Csar, and BRHS Board President Denise Alman.
Sponsors included event host The Boca Raton; trolley sponsors Morgan Stanley Harbor Financial, Berman Law Group, Fairman & Associates Inc., Joni Goldberg & Al Goldberg, Premier Estates Properties, and Red Reef Advisors; and beverage sponsor Republic National Distributing Company. Proceeds benefit BRHS's mission to preserve and share the city's history through exhibits, programs, and educational outreach. For more information, visit www.BocaHistory.org.
