Lewes Historical Society docents enjoy lunch at the Lighthouse Restaurant in Lewes honoring their dedication to the Society's museum programs on October 20th.

The Lewes Historical Society celebrated the achievements and dedication of its 2003 volunteer docents at the Lighthouse Restuarant in Lewes on October 20th. Over 100 docents attended the luncheon; President Irene Robb, First Vice President Estelle Stevenson and Executive Director Michael DiPaolo addressed the gathering briefly, recounting visitor statistics and thanking the docents for their tremendous dedication and commitment to the Society.

First Vice President Estelle Stevenson noted that without the docents, the Society would not be able to open its beautiful historic house museums to the public. Michael DiPaolo discussed statistics from the summer including that over 8,200 visited the Historic Complex this past summer. The Historic Complex, including the famous Cannonball House, remains a popular stop for both first-time visitors and those familiar with Lewes.

Also honored were the Museum Chairpersons: Iris Brock and Betty Carnahan of the Burton-Ingram House, Jim Roberts of the Cannonball House, Judy Rea of the Old Doctor’s Office, Betty Carter of the Hiram Rodney Burton House, Carol Orr of the Rabbit’s Ferry House, Suzanne Jones and Barbara Ward of the Ryves Holt House, Eleanor Knapp and Carolyn Marshall of Midway School #178, Ann Hilaman and Peggy Sherow of the Thompson Country Store, and Ed Patchell of the Lewes Life-Saving Station Boathouse. 2003 marked Ed Patchell's final season as Chair of the Life-Saving Station; Dick Stevenson will be the new Chair.

Docents are trained guides who staff the historical soicety's twelve historic house museums throughout the year and particularly during the busy summer season. Several docents are also trained to provide walking tours of Lewes.

The Lewes Historical Society is a private, charitable organization founded in 1962 and has restored 12 historic Lewes homes. The Society is a vibrant member-based organization with continuing activities and projects. For more information about The Lewes Historical Society, please call 645-7670 or email events@historiclewes.org.

©2002-2005 The Lewes Historical Society