A Historic Toast To America 250

The Southampton History Museum will set the table for a meaningful Independence Day weekend with its annual Halsey House Gala on Friday, July 3rd, 2026. Held from 5:30pm to 8:00pm at Halsey House & Garden, 249 South Main Street in Southampton, the evening will arrive on the eve of the nation’s 250th anniversary celebration and place local history at the center of a landmark American moment.

This year’s benefit takes on special significance as the country prepares to commemorate America 250 and the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Few settings could be more fitting than Halsey House, one of Southampton’s oldest and most treasured landmarks. Built in 1683, the historic home predates the founding of the United States and offers guests a rare connection to the colonial era, early village life, and the generations that helped shape the East End.

The gala will be co-chaired by Jean Shafiroff and Mary Slattery, with Bill McCuddy serving as emcee. Guests will enjoy cocktails by Herbert & Rist, including the “Salty Sayre,” a specialty drink created in honor of the museum’s exhibition at Rogers Mansion, Stephen Sayre’s American Revolution, which runs from June 12th, 2026 through January 2nd, 2027. The evening will also feature a premier raw bar, fine hors d’oeuvres courtesy of Thyme & Again, and live music by D@’Band on the lush grounds of Halsey House & Garden.

Proceeds from the event will support the Southampton History Museum’s mission to preserve and educate the public about the history and culture of Southampton through its historic sites, archives, collections, exhibitions, and public programming. A painting by Hunt Slonem will also be auctioned during the gala to help raise funds for the museum’s continued work.

“We look forward to gathering with friends and neighbors at our annual Halsey House Gala to toast local history,” said Sarah Kautz, Executive Director of the Southampton History Museum. “On this historic occasion, we are deeply honored to commemorate the sacrifices made by the Southampton community during the American Revolution 250 years ago.”

The Southampton History Museum is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization chartered by the New York State Board of Regents and incorporated under the New York State Education Department. Through its programming and stewardship of historic properties, the museum continues to connect residents and visitors with the stories that define Southampton’s past and inform its future.

Key supporters for the 2026 Halsey House Gala include Fiona & Stan Druckenmiller, The Derfner Foundation, Jean and Martin Shafiroff, the M. Sullivan Fund, Susan K. Allen, George & Leslie Biddle, Judi & Kevin Donnelly, Southampton Inn, The Peter Marino Art Foundation, Mary Slattery, and many others.

For ticket and sponsorship information, visit southamptonhistory.org/hhg.
For more information, visit southamptonhistory.org