Former Secretary, U.S. Sen. Kerry Guest at Essex Heritage Gala

Former Secretary of State and U.S. Sen. John Kerry will be a guest at Essex National Heritage’s 20th anniversary Gala next week.

Kerry, who played a key role in the federal legislation designating the Essex National Heritage Area in 1996, will be on hand as the organization honors 131 “trailblazers” and gives special recognition to four groups picked by the public.

Essex Heritage’s 20th Anniversary Gala: A Toast to the Trailblazers takes place Wednesday, April 5, 7 p.m., at Peabody Essex Museum, Salem. The event will include cocktails, dinner and an auction. Money raised benefits Essex Heritage programs which support the preservation and enhancement of unique places in the 34 cities and towns of Essex County. Tickets are $150 per person.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit EssexHeritage.org/Gala or call Essex Heritage at 978-740-0444.