The Renton Historical Society raised about $8,150 at its benefit dinner and auction that will go to support the museum’s mission.

The event, emceed by TV personality John Keister, was attended by 145 guests at the Renton Senior Activity Center on Oct. 26.

The museum’s mission includes exhibits, classroom outreach, events and care of its collection of historic objects and photographs, said Elizabeth Stewart, the museum’s director.

“Funds raised primarily enable us to improve the quality of our exhibits, because we’re really working hard right now to ensure that we change exhibits more frequently and that we make them more interesting and educational,” she said.

The first exhibit next year is “Two By Two: Students Reinterpret Renton History,” which will showcase Renton High students’ thoughts on the museum’s collection. “The students bring a fresh perspective on the city’s heritage, which will be exciting,” she said.

Stewart also sees this as a chance to get out word about the museum’s master plan, which is changing “what we do at the museum.”

“We hope more people will continue to invest their time, money, and support in working with us to preserve and educate about Renton’s history,” she said.