Marginal Way Preservation Fund Celebrates Centennial with Record-Breaking Summer Garden Party
The Marginal Way Preservation Fund (MWPF) is proud to celebrate the tremendous success of its Summer Garden Party fundraiser, held on August 9 at the home of Charlie Hindmarsh and David Carme. The event was a highlight of the Marginal Way’s Centennial year, bringing together community members, supporters, and friends to honor 100 years of this beloved “path by the sea.”
The evening inspired an extraordinary outpouring of generosity, raising more than $250,000 in a single night. Supporters also met the Fund’s $100,000 match challenge, doubling the impact of gifts and making the celebration a true double success.
In another historic Centennial milestone, the Fund proudly completed its 100 for $100,000 Campaign, raising $1 million through the generosity of 10 visionary donors who honored the Marginal Way’s 100th anniversary by continuing the legacy of Josiah Chase’s original gift.
Supporting the Town of Ogunquit
As part of the evening’s program, the Marginal Way Preservation Fund presented the Town of Ogunquit with a check for $285,750.83, in addition to $604,947.31 provided earlier this year. These substantial contributions directly support critical repairs to the historic seaside pathway, helping to ease the financial burden on Ogunquit taxpayers while ensuring the long-term resilience of the Marginal Way.
Celebrating Art, Nature, and Community
The Fund also proudly sponsored this year’s Plein Air Art Event, awarding the Best Depiction of the Marginal Way prize and presenting a $1,000 award to event organizers Amy Fitzgerald Forbes and Jen Lewer in support of this beloved community tradition.
Guests enjoyed a lively auction featuring original artwork donated by the founders of the Ogunquit River Painters—Ric Della Bernarda, Claire Bigbee, Doug Taylor, and Paul Noel—as well as a beautiful handmade quilt created by Dr. Michelle Cena. Each piece paid tribute to the natural beauty and artistic spirit that define the Marginal Way.
A Heartfelt Thank You
The Marginal Way Preservation Fund extends its deepest thanks to Charlie Hindmarsh and David Carme for graciously opening their home and garden to host this milestone event. Their generosity and hospitality created the perfect setting for an unforgettable Centennial celebration.
“All of this was made possible by our thoughtful supporters,” said Allison Ramsey, Executive Director of the Marginal Way Preservation Fund. “We are deeply grateful to our community for following in the footsteps of Josiah Chase’s remarkable vision and helping preserve this treasured coastal path for generations to come.”