The Columbus Natural History Society (CNHS) was formed in 1979. A group by this same name had existed in the 1800s but dissolved in 1879. Thanks to Dr. David Stansbery and other central Ohioans, the new CNHS was organized exactly 100 years after the first one ceased.
The primary reason for reviving a natural history society in Columbus was the desire to provide a natural history club where women could fully participate as members. As evidenced by current membership and by the number of women who have held leadership roles, this goal has been successfully attained. A secondary motive was to provide a venue for natural history programs. CNHS programs complement the programs of other local organizations.
When the Society was formed, the founders deliberately decided not to hold business meetings in conjunction with monthly gatherings. This was to keep the meeting focused on an educational program, to allow opportunities for members to share their observations of flora and fauna, and to announce events and activities available to members of the society. Business is conducted at separate board meetings with one annual meeting and potluck in December.
The society has published a newsletter, The Columbus Naturalist, since 1980. Barney Golding designed the original logo featuring a naturalist holding binoculars and a butterfly net. It appeared for the first time in Volume 2, Issue 2, April 1981, and was used until 2019 when the new logo was adopted. The newsletter is currently being published on a quarterly basis.
Current members come from all walks of life but share the common interest of nature.
The primary reason for reviving a natural history society in Columbus was the desire to provide a natural history club where women could fully participate as members. As evidenced by current membership and by the number of women who have held leadership roles, this goal has been successfully attained. A secondary motive was to provide a venue for natural history programs. CNHS programs complement the programs of other local organizations.
When the Society was formed, the founders deliberately decided not to hold business meetings in conjunction with monthly gatherings. This was to keep the meeting focused on an educational program, to allow opportunities for members to share their observations of flora and fauna, and to announce events and activities available to members of the society. Business is conducted at separate board meetings with one annual meeting and potluck in December.
The society has published a newsletter, The Columbus Naturalist, since 1980. Barney Golding designed the original logo featuring a naturalist holding binoculars and a butterfly net. It appeared for the first time in Volume 2, Issue 2, April 1981, and was used until 2019 when the new logo was adopted. The newsletter is currently being published on a quarterly basis.
Current members come from all walks of life but share the common interest of nature.
