The Foundation for Historical Louisiana celebrates 50th Anniversary with “Golden Gala” Nov. 13

BATON ROUGE - The Foundation for Historical Louisiana (FHL) is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year and will host its annual fundraising for preservation with a "A Golden Gala" at the Old Governor's Mansion, on the exact day of its founding, Nov.13.

According to the Chair Couple, Jacob and Colleen Wilbert, of Plaquemine, "A Golden Gala" theme will be represented throughout the night in the décor, attire, and golden champagne.

Most importantly, they want to honor the organization's 10 founders, their descendents, FHL's 25 past presidents, all past board members, and its current leaders and members.

"We are deeply indebted to these individuals who dedicated their time, talent and resources to building a quality of life built on preservation principles," the couple said.

The Foundation for Historical Louisiana was founded in 1963 as a statewide preservation organization. It is a membership based, non-profit, educational organization and is a partner of the National Trust for Historic Preservation in Washington, D.C. The primary mission of FHL is to preserve the architectural and cultural heritage of Louisiana.

Guests will enjoy the sounds of the popular band, Phat Hat, in the Mansion's Rose Garden, view more than 50 fabulous silent auction items in the East Ballroom and sample Louisiana food and libation delicacies.

Baton Rouge restaurants, caterers, and distributors along with service providers for events are especially generous to FHL and donate unique fare and signature dishes to showcase their individual specialties.

The 1930s Old Governor's Mansion is preservation headquarters for FHL, as well as a historic house museum, and venue for special private and public events, especially weddings and receptions.

All proceeds from this event are dedicated to preservation advocacy and the education work of FHL, a non-profit organization funded entirely through memberships, donations, earned income and grants.

Tickets are $100 per person for FHL members, $125 for non-members and $50 for those under 35. With the purchase of two tickets, guests will be given a membership to FHL. The event will begin at 7 p.m. Host committee members are invited to the Pre-Gala Invitation-only reception featuring exclusive cuisine, beverages, and entertainment beginning at 6 p.m.

Corporate sponsorships for individuals and businesses provide year round branding exposure among other benefits based on their support level. Contact Carolyn Bennett, FHL Executive Director, at 225-387-2464 or carolynbennett@fhl.org to discuss sponsorship opportunities beginning at $1,500.

For tickets, membership and any additional information call (225) 387-2464. Tickets may be purchased online at www.fhl.org or by phone for all levels of contribution.