Director Leigh Barba is thrilled to announce that the Rome Area History Museum’s first “Capitoline Champagne Brunch & Wine Auction” had 152 people in attendance and brought in more than $56,000 to help support the museum.

The event was held Sunday, Sept. 9, at beautiful Rose Hill, home of Wes Walraven and Brian Moore, who generously donated their beautiful home for the event venue.

Since the museum does not receive any public or taxpayer funds, it relies on charity events, as well as personal and corporate donations, to keep the doors open and free to the public. Officials said they were thrilled with the success of the “Capitoline” event and intend to hold it yearly.

The museum also sold raffle tickets for $50each with a $9,500 vacation to Italy as the prize! Locals Pat and Wayne Vick won the raffle, in which 500 tickets were sold.

History Museum Director Leigh Barba states "It is gratifying that so many people appreciate what the museum does in protecting, preserving and promoting Rome, GA area history. This was a lovely and well attended event and will help keep the museum open and serving the public through 2012. The board of directors and I would like to extend our sincere thanks to museum staff, our wonderful corporate sponsors and everyone who attended this fun and elegant event!”