The Niles History Center will host an event called “A Black Tie Affair” from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Sept. 8. The event will take place on the lawn of the Historic Chapin Mansion. Guests are invited to bring tables, chairs, blankets, food and non-alcoholic beverages to enjoy while listening to special musical guest, “The Ember Jar.” “We wanted to have a spinoff of community dinners like South Bend’s ‘Soiree en Blanc,’ where people dress all in one color,” said History Center Director Christina Arseneau. “Usually a museum gala would call for black tie attire. Our event is not formal. We want people to have fun with their own interpretation of black tie. Wear something, anything black, or a tie and you’ll fit right in.”

Arseneau invited people to join the celebration.

“We want the entire community to be involved. If you don’t want to pack a picnic lunch, we encourage you to visit one of our downtown dining establishments for carry-out,” Arseneau said. “We are encouraging people to bring friends and family, dress for fun and decorate your tables to celebrate our community.”

“A Black Tie Affair” will kick off a new rehabilitation project at the Chapin Mansion. Repairs will be made to the front porch, including adding an ADA-accessible ramp which will allow access to the first floor of the mansion. The original ornate wooden doors will also be reinstalled. This project will recreate the beautiful and dramatic façade of the mansion as it stood when completed in 1884.

The event will take place rain or shine. Admission is $10 in advance or $15 at the event. All ages are welcome and ages 12 and under will be admitted free. For tickets, visit the Fort St. Joseph Museum at 508 E. Main St. or call (269) 845-4054.