RANCHO SANTA FE — The Rancho Santa Fe Historical Society held a 25th anniversary celebration at La Flecha House on Feb. 7. Approximately 100 people attended the open house and shared memories of time spent in the Ranch.
Light refreshments were served under the guidance of Sue Bartow, who chaired the event. “We planned this anniversary event several months ago, but learned that the Super Bowl was scheduled for the same day only after we had already sent out the invitations.” The event was rescheduled at an earlier time as to not conflict with the Super Bowl. Bartow and other volunteers personally called everyone who had been sent an invitation to tell of the time change.
At a ceremony held to commemorate the Historical Society and it’s founding members, President John Vreeburg greeted guests gathered on the patio of La Flecha House, the first residential home designed by architect Lilian Rice. One of the original founders, Marcia Van Liew, then gave a presentation on the history of the Rancho Santa Fe Historical Society.
Vreeburg then gave plaques to honor the founding members who could attend the ceremonies — Pat Cologne, Sandy Somerville and Marcia Van Liew. Founders Eleanor Shefte and Gwen Whitehead are now deceased.
The 25th anniversary event was also the first opportunity for the membership to purchase the Historical Society’s new book, “Rancho Santa Fe: The Town the Railroad Built.” Sales were brisk at the event and all profits go back to the Historical Society.
One of the highlights of the event was the return of Administrator Sharon Fabry. Fabry suffered a stroke in late November and has since been in rehabilitation. The anniversary event was her first visit back to the Historical Society and she was welcomed with open arms by all those who attended. “It’s so good to see everyone again,” Fabry said.
The Rancho Santa Fe Historical Society will hold its annual membership meeting Feb. 16 at La Flecha House.
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