Annual Membership Meeting & Awards

Each spring, the Historical Society of Palm Beach County invites all members to attend the Annual Membership Meeting, where our leaders announce changes in the Board of Governors and share the accomplishments of the HSPBC during the prior year.

A highlight of this meeting is the presentation of the HSPBC’s community awards. Nominations are solicited from former honorees and historical organizations in Palm Beach County, but they may be made by anyone not directly associated with the nominee. Forms are available at pbchistory.org/#.

Judge James R. Knott Historical Contribution Award 

Established in 1989, this award recognizes the achievements of an individual or organization that has contributed to the preservation, promotion, or enrichment of Palm Beach County history for future generations. The Knott award is named for the late Honorable Judge James R. Knott, who served as president of the Society 1957-1969 and authored three books on our area’s history as well as the popular “Brown Wrapper” newspaper series.

Fannie James Pioneer Achievement Award

Established in 2003, this award recognizes the achievements of individuals or organizations that have contributed to preserving and sharing the history of Palm Beach County’s pioneering days, which can be in modern times. This award is named for the late Fannie James, an African American woman who founded and served as the first postmistress of the Jewell (now Lake Worth) Post Office 1889-1903.