A Peek Behind the Hedge, Taylor Materio
Chief Development Officer, Historical Society of Palm Beach County
Meet Taylor Materio, a born-and-raised West Palm Beach local with a genuine love for the stories, people, and moments that make Palm Beach County what it is today. In her role as Chief Development Officer, she helps bring that history to life—whether through engaging exhibitions, expanding educational programs for students, or championing community support through initiatives like the 1916 Society and the annual Archival Evening.
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Taylor’s passion for preserving the county’s heritage is matched by her excitement for its future. She’s dedicated to making the Historical Society accessible, meaningful, and inspiring for anyone who walks through its doors. With deep roots and an easy enthusiasm for the work, she’s helping guide the organization into a new chapter—one that honors the past while inviting everyone to be part of the story. Get to know Taylor!
For those who may not yet know the depth of its work, how would you describe the mission of the Historical Society of Palm Beach County and its significance when we live in a world that feels fast and new-fangled?
The Historical Society preserves the stories, people, and moments that shaped Palm Beach County—and makes them accessible through exhibitions, educational programs, and community partnerships. In a world that moves at breakneck speed, history offers grounding. It reminds us how we got here, what we’ve overcome, and what we’re responsible for passing on. Our mission is to safeguard these narratives so future generations can understand not only the beauty of our region, but the complexity and resilience behind it.
Our area has a rich and colorful history. What drew you personally to this work and to guiding the Society’s growth?
Being born and raised in West Palm Beach, I am deeply connected to this community, and the opportunity to help protect and elevate its history is incredibly meaningful to me. The archives we steward are irreplaceable, and the impact of our work extends far beyond exhibitions—it shapes how children learn, how residents understand their roots, and how visitors experience Palm Beach. Being part of that evolution, and helping the Society grow into its next chapter, felt like both a privilege and a calling.
From exhibitions to educational programming, the Society is incredibly multifaceted. What initiatives or programs are you most excited about right now?
Right now, I’m especially excited about our grand exhibition series (currently showcasing Sunshine Cinema: Florida in Film), which continues to draw record audiences and spark meaningful conversations. Our education programs—which reach tens of thousands of students each year—are also expanding, and we’re developing new ways for young people to engage with history through hands-on learning. And our 1916 Society, which supports the preservation of our archives, is gaining incredible momentum.
The Society has a robust social calendar. Is there a signature gathering or upcoming event that really embodies the ethos behind the organization?
Archival Evening is truly our signature event. It’s elegant, celebratory, and deeply mission-driven. Every year, we honor individuals whose leadership and philanthropy echo the values of Palm Beach’s earliest visionaries. The evening showcases how philanthropy fuels our exhibits, educational outreach, and archival preservation. It’s a night where the past and present come together beautifully.
This town has no shortage of fascinating tales! Do you have a favorite piece of Palm Beach history that you love sharing with people?
One of my favorites is the story of the early resort era—when pioneers like Henry Flagler were dreaming up what seemed impossible and transforming this barrier island into a world-class destination. The innovation, ambition, and sheer audacity of that era still echo throughout Palm Beach today.
If you could invite any historical Palm Beach figure for coffee and conversation, who would it be, and what would you want to ask?
I would invite Addison Mizner. His imagination shaped the architectural DNA of Palm Beach. I’d love to ask how he envisioned the future of the island, and whether he ever imagined that his designs would influence an entire region for more than a century.
Piggybacking off the above, if you could step back in time, is there a particular period in Palm Beach history that you wished you could have lived?
The 1920s would be irresistible—the glamour, the creativity, the sense of possibility. It was a moment when Palm Beach was defining itself culturally and architecturally in ways that still feel iconic.
When you’re not immersed in fundraising and programming, how and where do you love to spend time?
I love being out on the water, spending time with family, and enjoying the incredible natural beauty of Palm Beach County. Whether it’s a quiet beach morning or a walk through one of our historic neighborhoods, this place never stops inspiring me.
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If pressed to capture Palm Beach’s history in just three words, what would they be?
Visionary. Vibrant. Enduring.
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How can locals and non-members support or get involved with the Historical Society?
Visit the museum, attend an event, or become a member—every level of engagement strengthens our mission. For those looking to make a deeper impact, joining the 1916 Society or supporting an exhibition helps preserve our archives and expand our educational reach. Even simply sharing our programs with friends and family makes a meaningful difference in keeping Palm Beach’s history alive.