The Books & Books Literary Foundation and the Coral Gables Museum are proud to present an evening with Edel Rodriguez discussing The Mango Tree (La mata de mango): A Picture Book (Abrams Books for Young Readers, $18.99). From internationally renowned, award-winning artist Edel Rodriguez comes The Mango Tree, an enchanting wordless picture book and a moving, fantastical take on his childhood experience as an immigrant.
This exhibition will gather a rich tapestry of historical artifacts, documents, and narratives to celebrate the centennial of the Coral Gables Congregational United Church of Christ, a cornerstone of The City Beautiful. Founded in 1923 as part of George Merrick's visionary plan for Coral Gables, the church not only honored his father, Solomon Merrick's dedication to abolitionism and religious freedom but also became a vibrant community hub.
This exhibition delves into the multifaceted life of George Merrick: the artist, the entrepreneur, the visionary, and the dreamer. Personal objects, photographs, documents, and other historical material will offer visitors an in-depth exploration of our founder’s life, contributions, and enduring impact on the cultural and architectural landscape of The City Beautiful.
Join us for "The Placemaker-Poet", an innovative three-screen dramatic presentation about the life and legacy of visionary developer George E. Merrick. This event is linked to the upcoming exhibition "Celebrating a Century: Coral Gables’ First Church and Civic Heart" and was created by emeritus professor Philip M. Church in partnership with the nonprofit theater company What if Works.