The New Heritage Center

Unveiling The Transformation Of A Historic Vero Beach Landmark

Vero Heritage Center

2140 14th Avenue

Vero Beach, FL

VeroHeritage.org

@VeroHeritage1935

VeroHeritage

The lives of the people who built, worked, and lived in historic neighborhoods, districts, and buildings are embodied within them. They help us remember the past by telling tales about how a place once was. With the love and support of our incredible community over the past 88 years, the Heritage Center has contributed to the creation of these tales and memories that we will continue to share for generations to come.

The opportunity to work for a nonprofit that stewards a historical building is selfless and rewarding. The overwhelming feeling of walking into the Heritage Center’s 88-year-old structure can also be a little emotional. I sometimes stand in the center of the room facing the stage and envision the parties and dances that were held here in the 40s. The gentlemen dressed in their military whites and the young ladies, along with their chaperones, waiting and wondering which young man will ask them to dance. Oh, if only walls could talk! So many memories have been made in this giant room.

Old structures have distinctive features that can be challenging to duplicate in contemporary commercial construction. Even if you can recreate a historic structure's exterior, it won't feel the same unless you use the same construction methods and materials—yet these particular architectural features are no longer available. There are two enclaves on the south side of the Heritage Center, and on either side of the patio that were originally the ladies and gentlemen lounges. We have borrowed from our past and transformed these rooms back into lounges as they once were intended. There have also been several other upgrades throughout the building. To cherish and steward this 88-year-old building, and to help a young couple build an amazing memory for the rest of their lives is a huge responsibility, but the staff at the Heritage Center will help create that unique and magical day.

As the new Executive Director of the Heritage Center, I will be showcasing the beauty of this 88-year-old treasure. This old girl has had her ups and downs, and now under my direction she will shine like she did when first built in 1935; saved from demolition in 1991 and remodeled. Come and see her unveiling on September 17, 2023.

Written by Robyn Berry