Gala proceeds benefit fort projects

A crowd of over 165 gathered at Collins Creek Ranch at Ft. Griffin for the 19th annual Friends of Ft. Griffin Gala.

The event featured Aaron McDonnell and the Neon Eagles as entertainment, along with a chuck wagon meal and auction items.

The funds raised by the Gala support the programs offered at Ft. Griffin Historic Site, which is operated by the Texas Historical Commission.

“Everythingwasfantastic,” said organizer Susan Waller. “The weather was perfect, the food was all wonderful, and the music was great.”

Waller said that quite a few items were also auctioned off to raise funds for the the group.

“We had lots of good auction items,” she said. “We also have some of the Friends of Ft. Griffin vests for both men and women available.”

The vests feature a Bill Cauble drawing and the logo for the organization. The cost is $100 each.

“It was another very successful year,” Waller said.“Everyonehadagreat time. That is what so great about Albany – there were people from 21 to 90, and they all had a great time together.”

Waller said the funding will be used to continue to support the historic site.

“We have several projects we are working on,” she said. “We are still working with the Texas Historical Commission on the sutlers store, and we provide funding to help with the Living History re-enactors expenses.”

The Living History event was held Friday and Saturday at the fort.

Waller thanked those who attended, as well as the group’s sponsors, members and those who donated to the auction.