A Short History of the Philadelphia
Chapter of the Victorian Society in America
In February 1973, thirty-eight members of the Victorian Society in America petitioned the National Society for the creation of a Metropolitan
Philadelphia Chapter (the name was later changed to the Philadelphia Chapter of the Victorian Society in America.)
Approval having been granted, 106 members of the National Society residing in the Philadelphia metropolitan area were notified.
An ad hoc Committee was formed for the purpose of developing proposals for Chapter organization and policy. According
to minutes dated March 31, 1973, there were twelve charter members asked to serve on the committee. The committee met
in the home of Janet Terry (Mrs. Luther L.) on April 25, 1973. At this meeting, those present were asked to consider ways
to increase local memberships, dissemination of Society and Chapter news and cooperation of the press in bringing
Victorian art and architecture to the attention of the public. The Committee also discussed potential research areas,
involvement in local activities for the preservation of 19th Century architecture, Chapter programs, and coordination and
cooperation with the many community organizations in the Philadelphia area whose interests and goals correspond to those of
the Victorian Society in America.
Dr. Roger W. Moss, Executive Director of the Athenaeum
and Secretary of the National Society offered the Chapter the use of a desk and typewriter located in the Athenaeum.
Two events marked the beginning year of the Chapter - a lecture by Malcom Higgs from the University of Edinburgh on cast-iron
architecture and a tour of Boat House Row in Fairmount Park.
Chapter Structure
The purpose of the Chapter is to 1) provide local activities and programs of interest to member of the Chapter; 2) support and encourage the National Organization; and 3) encourage interest and help educate the general public in the values and preservation of Victorian culture.
By-laws govern the operation of the Chapter. The designated
offices of President, Vice-President, Secretary, Recording Secretary, Treasurer and Preservation Officer are elected by the
membership at the annual meeting each for a term of two-years. A six-member Board of Directors is appointed by the President
with the concurrence of the other officers.
Past and Current Presidents
1973 - Robert B. Ennis
1974 - Constance V. Hershey
1975 - David A. Hanks
1976-1980 -
William Hershey
1980-1984 - William Fischelis
1984-1988 - Robert Skaler
1988-1990 - Pamela Sommerfield
1990-1992
- George Boyden
1992-1996 - Doreen Foust
1996-1998 - Bertram Laudenslager
1998-2002 - Alex Humes
2002-2006
- Jim McPartlin
2006-2010 - David Ewaniuk 2010-Present - Barbara Kotzin
