The Catawba Island Historical Society is seeking new members. (Submitted photo)

CATAWBA ISLAND – Each fall the Catawba Island Historical Society (CIHS) seeks new and renewed support of its mission to preserve local heritage. Trappings of the area’s geological birth, prehistoric and Native American people, pioneers, orchard and arbor fame, and transformation to a lakeside recreation mecca have been officially curated by the society since its founding in 2017. Annual membership dues underwrite much of the cost to display these antiquities at Union Chapel, a 19th century former Sabbath school and house of worship now operated as a museum by CIHS.

“Thanks to our membership program, we are able to run the museum without having to charge visitors for admission,” said David Wonnell, President of the Historical Society. “Annual members can join for either $25 or $100 per year, lifetime membership is available for a one-time payment of $1000, and naming rights of specific displays called Heritage Waypoints can be acquired for an investment of $10,000, payable over four years.”

The museum continuously expands and improves. In 2025 the display about peach production was redone to provide more detail about how this important industry evolved on Catawba Island. They also launched a free-standing outdoor exhibit. It features two pieces of early farm equipment that had been used to harvest crops on the former Drusbacky farm on NW Catawba Rd. that once incorporated some of the highest terrain on Catawba Island.

Those who become Historical Society members during the last quarter of 2025 become accredited for the end of this calendar year as well as all of 2026. Further, those activating annual memberships by December 12 will be included in a holiday gift basket drawing to be held on that date. The basket is a perennial favorite with an ample supply of gifts and goodies from local merchants.

“If you are as proud of Catawba’s heritage as we are, we hope you’ll consider joining CIHS to help keep the Island’s story alive for future generations,” said David Wonnell. “More information about becoming a member can be found at www.catawbaislandhistoricalsociety.com.