Exhibit Lecture: Lasting Presence

Historical Lecture
The public is invited to join us for refreshments and a mid-exhibit lecture on Thursday, May 14, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 pm. Curator of History, Cherish Thomas, will provide an in-depth presentation on the families, businesses, and cultures featured in the Lasting Presence exhibition.

Lecture Topic
Starting in the late 1800s, immigrants from Germany, Syria, and Greece began arriving in the city of Florence. Many were entrepreneurs who sought to build new lives in America as merchants, candy manufacturers, and restaurateurs. As their businesses grew in popularity and success, names that were once foreign to native Florentines, such as Baroody, Saleeby, Kuker, Cohen, and Palles, gradually became commonplace throughout the city. Descendants of these and other immigrant families can still be found in and around Florence today. Visitors are invited to learn the various local immigrant stories & reflect on how their contributions shaped Florence as we know it today.

When
Thursday, May 14, 2026
Refreshments will be served starting at 5:00 pm.
The lecture will be from 5:45 – 6:30 pm.

Where
Florence County Museum

Cost
Admission is free.