Guests at the Dorcheat Historical Association and Museum’s annual fundraiser gala were treated to a surprise Monday night when the event was held inside the museum’s newly completed expansion area.
Director Jessica Gorman had kept the project’s progress quiet, saving the reveal for the gala.
The new space has not yet been outfitted with exhibits but provided ample room for the auction and drew a crowd that filled the area nearly to capacity. Features of the expansion include a new restroom facility, additional space for research, and room for future displays. Museum staff are now working to determine how the new areas will be used.
Guests enjoyed the signature cake auction, led by Richard “Dr. Feelgood” Campbell with Morris Busby and Danny Francis assisting. Silent and live auction items were also available, and a $1,000 cash prize was awarded.
“Our total raised was just over $21,000. We had a great turnout,” Gorman said.
The gala is the museum’s largest fundraiser of the year and provides critical support for operations. As a nonprofit, the museum relies on community contributions to preserve and share the history of Webster Parish.