There isn't a town across this nation of ours that doesn't have something they are proud of. Regardless of the size or population of any given city, there is a travel brochure at some nearby visitor's center proclaiming that "this" particular town has a one-of-a-kind attraction that would be a sin to overlook. Huntington has been blessed for over 50 years with that type of attraction, the Huntington Museum of Art.

With an impressive display of non-native plant life, the Huntington Museum of Art contains West Virginia's only plant conservatory. They welcome school tours. All that's required are reservations. There are Saturday morning craft classes for the kids, two nature trails, a gift shop, a beautiful hand-crafted glass display, a pristine collection of antique firearms and a temporary exhibit of original comic book illustrations. Their Web site is so easy to visit, even your average parent can check dates and times for future events. Just Google Huntington Museum of Art -- how easy is that? The museum also has a very interesting Facebook site.

The museum is also supported by a group of dedicated volunteers. Next time you visit the plant conservatory, notice how clean those fish ponds look. How every plant appears skillfully manicured. Notice the absence of dead leaves, broken branches and how everything seems freshly watered. That's the combined efforts from retired Marshall professors David and Rainey Duke. They have enjoyed their position for over three years.

"It's really quite a wonderful place to volunteer," said Rainey. "The snow could be piled up high outside, but the temperature in the conservatory remains constant year-round. When the plants begin to bloom, your senses become excited with the smells and beauty that grows all around you. Those are all great rewards. We just enjoy sharing these responsibilities together. Besides, David does all the heavy work."

Christie Kinsey has been part of the volunteer staff for over 25 years. A past chairwoman of the annual charity ball and former president of the board of directors, she is currently a member of the investment and finance committee and is always involved with the annual book sale.

"I do these things because our museum is a very valuable segment of this community," said Kinsey. "There are cities far bigger than Huntington who don't provide the opportunities that this museum brings to our area."

John Gillispie, director of public relations, says that the museum would not be able to offer the programs and services without their staff of volunteers.

"Our volunteers mean the world to us," said Gillispie. "We simply could not serve the community the way we do without their help. Our volunteers are the greatest asset we have, their contribution to our daily operation is priceless. They are involved with everything from fundraising events to school tours."

Amy Browning has been with the museum for nine years. She usually gets involved with annual events and special activities. She believes the museum gives back so much to this community.

"The joy of volunteering comes with being involved," said Browning. "When you realize your efforts make Huntington a better community, then you understand how essential the gift of your time becomes."

Doris Andrews is also a 25-year museum volunteer. Chances are, you will meet her in the gift shop. She sets up the changing displays and takes your money when you make a purchase. She says another friend got her interested and then moved.

"I love the educational opportunities offered here," said Andrews. "We used to bring our children up here for each new event or workshop. By volunteering my time here, I become part of something invaluable to this community. This place brings so much to Huntington, and yet, it's extremely overlooked."

Nancy Echols has been a volunteer for nearly 20 years. During the year, she helps in the gift shop. But when the annual book sale begins, she gets as busy as a Boa constrictor in a monkey cage. For two weeks straight, prior to the annual book sale opening for business, donated material must be grouped into many categories.

"This event requires dozens of volunteers, doing various tasks that make this occasion the success that it is," said Echols. "Our last book sale was a banner year for us. When you consider we made over $10,000 while selling paperbacks for half a dollar and up. This should tell you of the quantity we had for sale. There were also old phonograph records for sale, cook books, hard backs, instructional books, CDs and cassette tapes."

Harriette Cyrus is another 25-year volunteer. She has worked most every position except the gift shop. She says the staff is so professional that it's a real pleasure to be a part of it all.

Check the online calendar for workshops and future events. Check out the new gallery addition. Visit the Touma collection of mid-Eastern artifacts. It's your choice -- you can drop the kids off at the movies, or take the entire family for an afternoon of travel and adventure without leaving town.

Clyde Beal is a freelance writer living in Huntington. Write him at archie350@verizon.net with your story idea.

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From left, Harriette Cyrus, Doris Andrews, Nancy Echols, Patsy Lansaw and Christie Kinsey.

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