My Nonprofit Reviews

Before I ever became associated with the society, let alone a board member, I was intrigued by the architecture and age of the house. Although new to the Monroe area at the time, having grown up in New England, both myself and my wife have an appreciation for the quality of craftsmanship, one that McGarrah’s Inn (as the building is known by its membership) still retains.

The fact that it also home to one of the oldest Masonic lodge rooms in the country makes this already unique home even more intriguing. Obviously, my initial intrigue has blossomed into something far deeper. I am honored to be a board member of this fine organization, and can say unequivocally that our core members, many of whom are on the board of directors, always go above and beyond in order to protect and promote the character of the building.

It should be mentioned that our board serves on an all volunteer basis, and consists of part time volunteers who give a full time effort. Our ranks our varied and include knowledge trades people, professionals from the field of historic preservation, established administrators, and engineers. Such a wide diversity of skills and backgrounds has been instrumental in our success in the painstaking process of persevering and maintaining what is both an active meeting place and a historic homesite.

A common misconception that we are actively working on dispelling is that you need to be a Mason to be a member of our historical society. Although proud of our unique Masonic heritage, we also celebrate the non-Masonic role that our building has served the community over the years, from as stagecoach inn to a sanatorium to a private residence for notable historical figures. Thus we welcome our ranks to anyone with a love of history and buildings of character, and appreciate your support, both past, present and future. For more information on membership or how you can help, feel free to contact us – we’d love to hear from you.

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