2nd Annual event to feature historically inspired cocktails created by Dallas Mixologist Michael Martensen, music by Singapore Slingers, vintage attire and car show, auction, silent movies and more
You never know what might inspire a great idea! Last year, Dallas Heritage Village came up with a new twist for their annual fundraiser, which supports historical learning opportunities for students and adults at Dallas Heritage Village. After seeing a Prohibition cocktail menu at noted Dallas Mixologist Michael Martensen’s Cedars Social, which is just around the corner from the Village, staff began thinking of something that could be different and fun.
“When we met with Michael, we discovered his great love of history in general and how he has parlayed that into his job as a ‘mixologist’ of classic cocktails,” said Melissa Prycer, President and Executive Director, Dallas Heritage Village. “And you might say the rest is history! Michael came on board last year to create the cocktails for our historical cocktail party, and it was a great success. This year will be our 2nd Annual History with a Twist-a Celebration of the American Cocktail.”
Martensen is mixing things up again for the event, presented this year by Sidley Austin, LLP, on Saturday, April 26, 7-11 p.m., on Main Street at Dallas Heritage Village, 1515 S. Harwood, Dallas, 75215. Guests will step back in time as they stroll down Dallas Heritage Village’s historic Main Street sampling a variety of unique creations of Martensen’s at numerous cocktail stations as well as food by Wendy Krispin Catering throughout the evening. Additionally, beer and wine will be available. There will be a vintage car show, jazz music provided by the Singapore Slingers, and a unique silent auction with dining and wine packages, along with some experiences only found through the Village. Guests are encouraged to come in their own vintage attire from Prohibition and the early 20th century. A selection of costume items will be for sale that evening for those who want to accessorize as well as a photo booth to document the occasion.
“If you came last year, then you know this event is so much fun and nothing like any other event in Dallas,” said Melissa Prycer, President and Executive Director, Dallas Heritage Village. “We are excited to bring back a favorite cocktail of the evening last year called ‘The Heritage,’ and, of course, Michael is creating some new ones to be unveiled. Additionally there will be dancing and lots of fun things to do.”
“I’ve already started thinking about some new cocktail creations this year,” added Michael Martensen. “It’s great to be a part of something that will benefit such an outstanding nationally accredited history museum in Dallas. Spread the word and come on out for a fun evening and a great cause!”
Sponsors to date include: Presenting Sponsor ($10,000) Sidley Austin; ($5,000) Thompson & Knight; ($3,500) Sue and Phil John, Frost Bank; ($1,000) Susan and Linc Eldredge, Sandy and Mark Singer; ($500) Eastfield College.
“History with a Twist is not only a fun way to benefit Dallas Heritage Village, but also a fun way to see its beautiful grounds and historic structures,” said Don Baynham, chairman of the board. “Thousands of school kids and families as well as individuals visit Dallas Heritage Village every week, exploring history by touring our 38 historic structures, participating in interactive exhibits and attending special programs. We are honored to have Michael on board and grateful for his enthusiasm and partnership again this year!”
Cost is $75 for individuals or $125 for couples and includes cocktail samples, heavy hors d’oeuvres, beer and wine, and valet parking. Sponsorships are available.
For event information and tickets contact Lisa Simpson, 214-413-3662, lsimpson@dallasheritagevillage.org or visit www.dallasheritagevillage.org.
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Dallas Heritage Village, located at Old City Park, is a nationally accredited history museum, depicting life in Dallas from 1840-1910. It is one of only five museums in the Dallas area to have this distinction. The grounds showcase 38 historic structures, including log cabins, the pre-Civil War Millermore home, a Victorian Main Street, a railroad complex, an 1860s farmstead with livestock, a 19th century church, school and more. Visitors discover how crops were grown, animals cared for and how family living progressed from log cabins to grand manors and Victorian homes. Dallas Heritage Village is supported, in part, by the City of Dallas Office of Cultural Affairs and the Texas Commission on the Arts as well as individual and group donations. Dallas Heritage Village was nominated in 2011 and 2012 by D Magazine as one of the top Dallas-area family attractions. It is located at 1515 South Harwood, one block south of Farmers Market in Downtown Dallas. Hours of operation are Tuesday – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. and Sunday, noon – 4 p.m. The Village is closed the months of January and August. Regular admission is $9 for adults, $7 for seniors 65+ and $5 for children ages 4-12. Children under 4 and members of Dallas Heritage Village are admitted free of charge. For more information call 214-421-5141 or visit www.DallasHeritageVillage.org