KP Historical Society set for a busy August

The KP Historical Society is preparing for many free events open to the public to take place this month.

The Faraway Centennial Celebration culminates on Aug. 8 at the Longbranch Improvement Club, with complimentary admission from 2 to 4 p.m.

Faraway, the summer estate of the McDermott family on Filucy Bay, was a magical place where many visited over the years, organizers said. Although no longer owned by the family, the rich history of the idyllic retreat belongs to the Key Peninsula.

Featured at the celebration will be photos, unique artifacts and documents of the McDermott family of Bon Marche fame.

Rather than a set program, there will be knowledgeable folks to answer questions about Faraway and the family who owned it. Discussions are welcomed.

Cake and tea will be offered in honor of Josephine Nordhoff McDermott's birthday.

Connie Hildahl has written a book about Faraway that will be available for sale.

The story takes place between 1850 and 1950. The book includes over 250 photos plus maps and is an important piece of Pacific Northwest history. More than a historical narrative, this is a story of the American dream.

“It has been a privilege to meet family members, listen to their memories and explore the boxes of photos and documents they shared,”Hildahl said.

Penrose Park

Members of the Key Peninsula Historical Society will tell tales of the Penrose family who had annual summer camps on their property that later became Penrose Park. There is a fee for park parking, but the presentation is free on Aug. 15. at 7 p.m.

Museum

Museum hours are Tuesday and Saturday 1 to 4 p.m. or by appointment.

The museum’s current display, is “The Story of the Key Peninsula –– Its Past, It’s People, Its Places.”