Curated Texan
Dallas Historical Society’s Centennial Gala Honors The Moody Foundation
By Rob Giardinelli Photography by Robert Wythe of Wythe Portrait Studio
THE SCENE: A beautiful fall evening at the Hall of State in Dallas was the recent setting for an evening of a century in the making. Over 200 philanthropists, sociables, and community leaders were on hand for the Dallas Historical Society’s Centennial gala for an evening of great food, fantastic conversation, and touching tributes that those fortunate enough to be a part of will not soon forget.
THE VIBE: The black tie crowd began the evening with cocktails in the Hall of State foyer. The Dallas String Quartet provided the perfect sophisticated ambiance as guests sipped their favorite spirits. At the same time, they mingled with other patrons and viewed an assortment of interesting historical artifacts in Dallas’ unique and storied history.
Partygoers then ascended the stairs to the Hall of State’s main level for the program. As the crowd dined on a delectable multi-course meal, they were treated to a series of video testimonials, including one from former President George W. Bush. The highlight of the program was honoring The Moody Foundation, which, over the past 80 years, has awarded 4,900 grants totaling over $2 billion toward the betterment of Texas.
The evening was capped off with a Texas Two Step, where guests could either dance at an after party courtesy of Hunter Sullivan and his band, or be the first to view the large-scale, interactive diorama Texas Liberty Forever: The Table for the Alamo created by artist Tom Feely, currently on display at the Hall of State. The program’s highlight was The Moody Foundation being honored for their over 80 years of service, awarding 4,900 grants totaling over $2 billion toward the betterment of Texas.
THE NON PROFIT: The event, co-chaired by Kristen Sanger and Lisa Singleton, raised funds for the Dallas Historical Society. Proceeds from the event will go towards the collection, preservation, and exhibition of more than three million unique artifacts that showcase the unique history of Dallas and Texas.
