In 1932, Lynnewood Hall, renowned for its grandeur, hosted a glittering gathering of 300 guests for possibly one of their last balls for nearly a century. Overflowing from the dining room adorned with dark red French tapestries and the majestic bust of the Prince de Condé, the ballroom—filled with Louis XV and XVI furniture, Chinese vases, and four grand crystal chandeliers—was alive with conversation and laughter. Among the illustrious guests were some of the nation's wealthiest figures: Harvey Firestone, William Vanderbilt, Bernard Gimbel, and many more, all seated in this opulent setting. 

The gathering was social, but with undertones of economic reflection. At a luncheon hosted by Publisher Cyrus Curtis, Wall Street Journal's Hugh Bancroft gave the group a hopeful message—that the economic crisis was waning—and they cheered as Firestone championed President Hoover's re-election. These influential figures met not to solve the world's problems, but to strengthen bonds and enjoy the high spirits of an elite circle. 

While the world has changed, the legacy of such opulence and camaraderie lives on in Philadelphia's upcoming Beaux Arts Ball, where elegance, design, and a touch of historic grandeur come together once more. Much like the gathering at Lynnewood Hall, the Beaux Arts Ball promises a night to remember, but this time it’s for the creative spirits and visionaries of the present day—where art, architecture, and design will take center stage, perhaps with fewer tycoons and more avant-garde style. 

This year’s Ball is more than just a celebration; it’s a continuation of a tradition that melds social connections with cultural significance, and this upcoming event is sure to carry the same timeless splendor, but with a modern twist. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this storied legacy!