History of the Astronomical Society of Harrisburg:

This is the second in a series of articles on the history of ASH. The format of the first several reports resembles the format of minutes take during the meeting. This is to emphasize the process that was necessary to establish the society. Later on the format will revert to more of a story prose. Another item of interest is the notes of the early meetings refer several times to 42 amateur astronomers even though the member list indicated 45 were present Maybe further research will uncover the identity of the lost

Today, one month after the initial meeting, a group of 42 local amateur astronomers gathered at the -YMCA to form an organization. With John Groome acting as temporary chairman, the Harrisburg Astronomical Association was formed. The thrust of this meeting was to establish a society to promote interest in astronomy. To facilitate organization a Ways & Means Committee and a Constitution & By-Laws Committee were established. Ed Naylor and Charles Keller were named respective chairman. Committee members were selected by the chairman. It should be noted that John Groome, Charles Keller and Ed Naylor were the three individuals who initiated the action to form an amateur astronomical society. Following the formalities the group discussed projects which would be beneficial to the establishment of a vital society. These included:

* Arranging for a meeting place which would be offered as a courtesy to the group.

* Determination of requirements for joining the Astronomical League.

* Mirror grinding and the making of telescopes by and for the members.

* Stellar observing by individuals and the group.

* Using 'star parties' to secure public interest.

It should be noted that at this time the group was not officially formed into a society which would satisfy the intent of the group and allow them to pursue their common interests.

Publicity Received after Second Meeting of Astronomy Enthusiasts in Harrisburg, Scanned in by TANII.

Attendees at this meeting and part of the Association included
Bruce L. Butt
Dr. Ken H. Benson
Jane R- Deitrick
Donald D. Deitrick
Mary Ellen Deitrick
John E. Groome
Charles F. Keller
Dr. O.M. Markley
N. J. Murdock
Edward L. Naylor
Wm. H. Shelleman
Barry Soloman
Roy Drungard
Stanley M. Armitage
Dr. Thomas A. Hensel
Andrew Keefer, Jr.
John R. King
Charles H. Row
George B. Schriver
Marion L. Ward
Ruth Bolla
John H. Jones, Jr.
Dr. Paul L- Kimmel
John Y- Terry
Samuel L. Terry
Heywood Marsh
Clare Marsh
Charles W. Keller
Charles F. Keller, Jr.
Charles A. Markley
Dr. Walet F. Bitner
Jay Bitner
Mrs. T. J. Bowres
Mary R. Burkholder
George H. Gruber
Mildred L. Moyer
R.H. Moorish
D.R. Opperman
Ted Opperman
Homer N. Reber
Albert Smereglio
Wm. G. Shadle
Mrs. Aurelio Wetmore
Paul Walker
Lou Doolittle

To be continued...