Phoenixville Secret Societies Exhibit Opens at HSPA

Always wondered what went on in those secret societies? Get some answers thanks to a new exhibit at (HSPA).

“Behind the Wooden Door: Secret Societies in the Land of the Phoenix” opens on First Friday, March 4, and runs through June. Peek at weapons used in ceremonies, secret documents and ceremonial clothing in this colorful exhibit.

Anni Weden, board member at the HSPA, set up the exhibit and has had it planned for some time, according to HSPA President Sue Marshall. Once the idea was set, the society started seeing items roll in, adding to what was already in storage.

“People came forward and said, ‘I have this at home, I have that at home,’” Marshall said.

One particular piece, used in ceremonies by The International Order of Odd Fellows, will certainly garner attention. It’s a skeleton tucked in a box.

“It was a reminder that you’re not going to be on this earth forever,” Marshall said.

In addition to Odd Fellows pieces, the exhibit also features items related to The Knights of the Golden Eagle and The Freemasons.

Each organization has ties to Phoenixville, Marshall noted, and had or has lodges in the Phoenixville area.

This exhibit features lots of color, thanks to ceremonial clothing on display. Each exhibit takes about 40 hours to set up, plus more time in planning, Marshall explained. Documents, musical instruments and more fill the display cases, and swords used in ceremonies hang on one wall.

For the opening, Marshall said many HSPA members will be on hand, and light refreshments will be served. The exhibit’s grand opening will be Friday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. If you can't make it Friday, check the HSPA Web site for museum hours.

The next exhibit will look at Phoenixville’s role in the Civil War, so if you have anything that could be displayed for that, let the HSPA know.