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By Jill Brown

The Monessen Historical Society held a Roaring Twenties celebration on Sept. 17, 2016 from 5-9 p.m. that took attendees back in time with many fun surprises for the evening.

GMHS President Dan Zyglowicz and his proud mom, Dolores. They enjoyed the evening out together and with friends.

The fundraiser dinner and dance, featuring food popular in the ‘20s, took place in Jozwiak Hall in the St. Vincent DePaul building in Monessen. Tickets were $30, and proceeds went towards the Monessen Heritage Museum on Donner Avenue.

President of Historical Society Daniel Zyglowicz said the ‘20s theme was chosen because “We had requests from guests who came to our other banquets; plus, [it made sense] with it being the 95th anniversary of Monessen becoming a city in 1921.” In celebration, a buffet meal took place at 6 p.m. catered by Bruno & Sons Catering, which included chicken Romano, roast beef, antipasto salad, and more. The cake was donated by Dr. Martin Dudas. At 7:30 p.m., Zyglowicz delivered a profound speech titled, “Monessen in the 1920s.”

Monessen Mayor Lou Mavrakis, present at the event, said, “The Historical Society means a great deal because I’m the oldest, and I can relate to it. I lived it.” The Mayor often donates antique items to the historical society.

Matthew Shorraw, GMHS volunteer, gave an excerpt of H. Dallas McCabe’s speech delivered at Monessen’s Silver Jubilee Celebration in 1923.

Emerita Professor Marsha Nolfe of California University of PA spoke after Zyglowicz. She provided a brief overview of the 1920s. She said of her presentation, “It was what I think you need to know to be culturally literate.”

Nolfe spoke of Prohibition in 1920 when alcohol was illegal and speakeasies were around. Al Capone became powerful. Americans had more money than ever and became rich with stocks. They used credit, too. Charlie Chaplin was popular, as was jazz music. Women wore flappers and had the right to vote. Finally, the term “roaring” meant prosperity. “In conclusion,” she said, “I hope I have given you an overview of what it is to be culturally literate.”

Next to follow was DJ Dennis Wince, who began with sing-alongs of three popular songs of the Jazz Era. Wince was great entertainment, capturing the spirit of the time period. He had donated his DJ services for the evening, also.

Paul Tobacco led the dancers in a fun twenties dance.

Paul Tobacco, dance instructor, demonstrated 1920s dances: the Charleston, Putting on the Ritz, and Turkey Trot dances. People showed off their beautiful clothing reminiscent of the ‘20s as they danced in perfect form to the twenties melodies.

Raffle ticket drawings were conducted and lucky winners received prizes such as a fall wreath, wine, a Penguins gift basket, and an autographed picture of Pittsburgh Steelers.

Wince said, “We need to take a moment to thank the people from the Historical Society who worked hard to pull this off!” The festivities came to an end with couples taking the floor and dancing close and romantic. A good time was had by all!

The GMHS Board of Directors thanks their supporters. You are welcome to visit the Heritage Museum, 505 Donner Ave., Monessen. Hours of operation are Wednesday – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Like them on Facebook for information and events.

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