On June 2, 220 guests attended the New-York Historical Society’s (N-YHS) annual Strawberry Festival luncheon.  More than $450,000 was raised, which will benefit the programs of the N-YHS, including major exhibitions and educational programs on American history.

In addition, a portion of proceeds from jewelry sold at an exclusive Baccarat trunk show featuring the stunning summer 2008 collection, will also benefit N-YHS.  Baccarat also donated a signature necklace from its Psydelic collection that retails for $500, which was reaped in a raffle by a very delighted attendee.  

Financial executive Nancy Newcomb, in recognition of her eight years of committed service on the N-YHS Board and her role as co-chair of its Executive Committee, received the Distinguished Service Award from former N-YHS president Betsy Gotbaum, herself a previous Strawberry Luncheon honoree.

In a keynote address, former Manhattan prosecutor and best-selling author Linda Fairstein lauded the abundant holdings of N-YHS’s Library, which she draws upon to enrich her thrillers with vibrant details of New York City’s past.  Ms. Fairstein noted that the title of her 2003 novel, The Deadhouse, was inspired by information gained from reviewing original documents at the N-YHS Library.