The Ross Township Historical Society opened its museum Saturday, achieving a goal years in the making.

It included a ribbon-cutting ceremony and chance to see the new additions to its space, which is on the second floor of the municipal annex building.

“I am so happy, overwhelmed and in awe of how the members took charge and put this all together,” said Kathryn Koch-Villoresi, a founding member and former president of the historical society.

She set up a table at the 2016 election poll to recruit members to the historical society. One of the first tasks was to plan the township’s bicentennial event in 2017.

The plan for a museum - a place to methodically display historical artifacts and photographs rather than just having random piles spread all over - finally came to fruition.

Members Cindy Lou Morris, Marsha Beers and Taylor Keller were happy to show guests the various themes on display and talk about the history of each.

Themes include home, education, farming, business and industry, tourism and local government and faith.

“We started a new theme last month, called old time toys. We want to represent all generations,” said Martha Rezeli, secretary of the historical society.

So far there is a rocking horse, dolls, children’s books and games.

Beers asked her former student, Matthew Semmel, to restore a one-legged church pew they had acquired from Holy Ghost Catholic Church in Olyphant.

Semmel, a designer by trade, had to build the other leg to match and fit.

He said it took about a month to do the job. It is now on display in the museum. Beers presented him with a certificate of appreciation.

“I think the volunteers did a great historical representation of the township. We will continue to support them and hope to grow the museum. This is a well-deserved day for them,” said township supervisor David Shay.

“This museum is everyone’s. Your thoughts, ideas and contributions are always welcome,” said historical society treasurer Ken Giardina.

A new Friends of Ross Township Historical Society campaign recently began. To become a Friend is $10 for individuals, $20 for a family, and $25 for a business.

People can also purchase a brick from Blue Ridge Enameled Brick Company and certificate of authenticity, Giardina said.

When resident LeRoy Rasely, who wrote the book History of Saylorsburg, died last year, the museum obtained some of his artifacts, including old deeds made in duplicate. People can purchase his book by contacting the historical society.

“In 2023, we are looking at opening the museum one or two times a month with rotating exhibits. We will do another open house and resume the annual tour to historical sites,” Rezeli said.