Questers Inc

Questers Inc is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservation, restoration, and education about historical artifacts, memorials, buildings, and landmarks. The organization was founded in 1944 by Jessie Elizabeth Bardens in Fort Washington, Pennsylvania. It became an international organization in 1991 with chapters across the United States and Canada.

Mission

The mission of Questers Inc is to educate its members and the public about places, objects, or events of historical significance. This is achieved through research, study, and preservation efforts at local, state, provincial, and international levels.

Structure

Questers Inc operates through a hierarchical structure:

• Local Chapters: Members meet regularly, typically from September to May, to engage in educational programs and share knowledge about antiques and historical sites.
• State/Provincial Chapters: These levels organize larger meetings, focusing on regional historical themes.
• International Organization: The highest level coordinates annual conventions and international grants.

Programs and Grants

Questers Inc offers grants for preservation and restoration projects, primarily in even years. Since 1986, they have awarded over $1.5 million in grants across various historical sites and artifacts. Additionally, they provide educational grants and support scholarships for students in relevant fields of study.

Membership

Membership is open to individuals with a curiosity for history, antiques, and preservation. Members enjoy access to educational resources, networking opportunities, and participation in a community that values lifelong learning.

History

The organization's history began with Jessie Elizabeth Bardens, who started the first meeting with a focus on collecting and studying antiques. Over time, Questers Inc has expanded to support broader historical preservation efforts, staging international conventions to highlight local historical achievements.

Achievements

As an advocate for community engagement in historical preservation, Questers Inc emphasizes the importance of understanding and protecting local historical sites. Their efforts reflect a broader movement to appreciate and preserve historical landscapes for future generations.

References

Unfortunately, the provided search results do not contain a specific section for references or bibliographic citations. However, typical references would include publications from Questers Inc, historical society documents, and community reports on their preservation efforts.