After 15 exciting years, Bro. Harold L. Barnhart and Bro. Gerald W. West, members of the Masonic Homes' Museum Committee, are looking to "pass the torch" to a new generation of museum lovers.

Bros. Barnhart and West are looking for a person to take on the responsibility of supervising the museum, with the help of a few individuals who would be on call when needed.

"We're looking for someone with some [spare] time, some artistic taste, and occasional use of a strong back," Bro. West said.

The new Masonic Homes' museum volunteer would be responsible for assessing the items donated to the museum. This task involves cataloguing each item with information, such as who donated the item, when it was donated and how old the piece is. That person also would be in charge of keeping items in storage until they are displayed and then, eventually creating a display for the new items, as space permits.

According to Bro. West, the ideal candidate will have an interest in; and knowledge of, antiques and the ability to write in calligraphy, a style of writing that is used on many of the signs in the display cases in the museum.

Heading the Masonic Homes' Museum Committee is an ideal volunteer position for someone who has four to five days a month to dedicate to the museum, Bro. West said.

The museum contains various pieces on display, including Grand Lodge artifacts, former Masonic Homes' farming equipment, photographs, treasured possessions donated by residents, items donated by Pennsylvania Freemasons, and other items of Masonic interest.

The Masonic Homes' Museum opened in 1986 in its former location on the lower level of Grand Lodge Hall. Originally, the museum was going to consist of a few display cases and photographs surrounded by several lounge chairs. However, the original four men of the Museum Committee (Bros. Barnhart and West, Bro. Harold R. Kerns and Bro. Kenneth W. Nebinger) had a different vision ­ they wanted it to be a true museum. Indeed, the Committee achieved that, making the museum what it is today.

"We enjoy (being on the Museum Committee)," Bro. Barnhart said. "That's why we're doing it. We take pride in our museum."

Bro. West added, "The 'pay' is good ­ with the satisfaction and enjoyment of working with old things."

Would you like to find enjoyment volunteering on the Masonic Homes' Museum Committee? If so, call the Office of the Chief Executive Officer, at (717) 367-1121, extension 33262.