2024 Summer Fundraiser: All That Jazz

On August 17, 2024, we held our annual fundraising party to benefit the Museum. The theme this year is All That Jazz, and we celebrated the Museum on the grounds of the historic Berkshire School of Art at 66 Art School Road, right next door to the Bidwell House.

Our honoree this year was Bidwell Board Member Rick Wilcox. Rick is a Bidwell descendant, and has been a Museum board member since 2014. He is invaluable to the Museum as a remarkable historical researcher and writer, having produced for us over 150 issues of Bidwell Lore, as well as an active member of the Programs Committee. We have benefited from his connection with Stockbridge as the retired Chief of Police, and from his association with the Stockbridge Library Museum & Archives. Importantly, he has helped us better understand the role of the Stockbridge-Munsee Band of Mohicans in the history of our land.

Guests enjoyed some swinging jazz from members of the band The Lucky Five, and delicious appetizers were provided by local favorite Kate Baldwin. There was also a silent auction with some fabulous gifts and experiences.

This summer party is the major fundraising event of the year for the Museum. All proceeds from this event support the historic 1760s homestead, year-round educational programs, and the gardens and grounds, which are open to the community, free of charge, year-round.