Club History

On October 7, 1949, with the issuance of its first Bulletin, the Black River Astronomical Society was born.   It was “the first cry of a new infant.” The desire to create such a society had been percolating in the minds of astronomy enthusiasts in northern Ohio for "many moons," but finally came to fruition that autumn evening at William Roe's Lab on Murray Ridge Road in Elyria. One of the nine men present at this auspicious meeting was L. E. Armfield, who had previously played an instrumental role in the formation of the Milwaukee Astronomical Society. Armfield discussed the goals of the proposed organization with his fellows and drew up a set of by-laws to inspire and govern its operation.

From its inception, the society's ambitious mission was “…to promote the study of astronomy and allied sciences and foster a public interest in astronomical subjects; give and sponsor public lectures; subscribe to and publish literature calculated and intended to diffuse information regarding astronomy and astronomical discoveries; purchase, lease and otherwise acquire real estate for the purpose of erecting one or more astronomical observatories and all necessary auxiliaries thereto; conduct astronomical researches; cooperate with other educational institutions; conduct private meetings and public forums for scientific study and discussions; receive and accept gifts of land, goods, funds and materials in order to advance the general purpose of the society and to foster a spirit of fellowship among the members.”

In an effort to extend its influence beyond the boundaries of any one municipal district, the club's founders decided upon the name Black River Astronomical Society. Preliminary meetings were held over the following weeks in order to appoint an inaugural board and approve the final draft of the by-laws.

At long last on November 9, 1949, BRAS opened its doors to the public at a meeting in the Clearview School in Penfield, and issued this call:

With [an] ambitious purpose quoted, the founders of the Black River Astronomical Society have launched ... a journey sure to bring all who join with them the enjoyment that so many have found in the study of astronomy. But as with life itself, you can get out of it only so much as you put into it.