A Tribute To Mary Peck
River House is a little different than most venues in that it is owned by a private non-profit organization, the St. Johns County Council on Aging. On the weekdays, the building operates as an active senior center with all types of classes and programs for residents and visitors alike. On the weekend, it transforms into an event venue, hosting social and corporate events. Proceeds from the venue rentals directly support the non-profit’s mission and day-to-day upkeep of the building, making River House a dual-purpose facility with truly unique functions.
A woman by the name of Mary Peck, a longtime supporter and active participant of COA programming, willed that her home be used for the benefit of community elders when she passed away. Her wish was to provide waterfront dining for seniors, so older adults could enjoy the Bayfront view that she had loved during her lifetime. With her donation, a vision was brought to life. Her home was sold and the profit was used as the seed money to build River House.
Cathy Brown, COA’s Executive Director at the time, is credited with the brilliant idea of constructing a building that could house senior programing during the week, and host special events on the weekends. It became the perfect balance — providing St. Johns County with a state-of-the-art, nationally accredited senior center, as well as a prestigious event venue on the Bayfront overlooking the Matanzas River, St. Augustine Lighthouse and Bridge of Lions.
A.D. Davis Construction broke ground in May 2009, and River House opened its doors in January 2010. The River House Ballroom is named in Ms. Peck’s honor, and a portrait of her created by local artist Jean Troemel is displayed there.
To learn more about COA’s mission and impact on St. Johns County, click here.
Reviews of River House
Caitlin
This hidden gem is worth every star. If you're a local to St. Augustine, FL then this is all I need to say: It's Downtown, along the water, and has its OWN PARKING LOT…. There was so much included in the different wedding packages that it took a lot off of our plate when we were planning (such as the tables, chairs, linens). We had about 120 guests in the end and it was very comfortable! The venue could easily hold more or less. For a downtown St. Augustine wedding venue, this will definitely be worth your time! Thank you so much River House Events!
Elysha
If you are considering getting married in the Saint Augustine area, The River House gives you the most BANG for your buck. We looked into other venues in the area and you were limited to only their caterer/vendors as well as being limited to a small space. The entire grounds of The River House is yours for your whole duration of time. They give you recommendations of the vendors they have worked with and prefer. The view inside and out is stunningly beautiful. Lastly, the staff was a complete joy to work with.
Dan
The rooms of this exhibition and event center are framed by a beautiful river backdrop. The scale of this center is impressive and is capable of holding the largest of events. It is modern, clean and classy; a place you could be proud to showcase your next project.
