Submitted by Leona Baker, Historical Society of Salisbury Township

It is with a heavy heart that we report the passing of Joan Lorenz, principal founder of the Historical Society of Salisbury Township.

A little more than 25 years ago, Joan's fervent enthusiasm for history prompted her to accept the challenge to write "The History of Salisbury Township, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania." That enthusiasm encouraged others in the neighborhood, and soon many in the community were sharing family history, news articles and photographs, often volunteering to help with research.

One of the first paragraphs in Joan Lorenz' 2002 book states, "I believe that the past is still with us, changed and converted, but turned into new configurations of land, families and institutions. It is the connections that need to be made with what we have been, what we are, and what we will decide to be in this place." The book has become the definitive history of Salisbury Township.

Joan's interest in her adopted place of residence continued. She co-wrote several other books about the villages in the township and worked tirelessly to promote the society. Her ability to persuade business owners to share their wares at the annual gala, held at Salisbury Park in Gap, made that endeavor a huge success for the 10 years it was held. Eventually, changes in the park facilities rendered the gala impractical for that venue.

The success of the annual house tours was assured because of Joan's vigorous attention to the history of each house, church or business. It is a dream of the society to begin house tours again.

Joan was one of the principal contributors to the book "Civil War Veterans Who Lived in or Were Buried in Salisbury Township, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania." That comprehensive volume is consulted by people from all over the United States when researching local roots.

As the society grew, Joan stepped back to allow younger historians to carry on her early work, thus assuring that the early enthusiasm for township history would not waver. But she was still there when needed for advice and support.

In another section of the history book, Joan wrote, "Most of all, I want people to see the connections. Lives, land and livelihoods are inextricably woven to create the design of Salisbury Township. Each one of us who make the township our home has a sacred duty to know it, care for it, preserve it and make wise decisions about its use."

Joan passed away on Jan. 4, leaving behind her loving family and hundreds of those whose lives were touched by her gentle nature, her deep desire to equate with the past and her eagerness to do the research that keeps that past alive.

Joan's steadfast belief in the importance of remembering the past continues to be the catalyst for the society's activities. Joan dreamed of a museum to display the treasures of Salisbury Township's past, and this year that will be accomplished, with an opening date set for spring.

Joan, we salute you with this gift, proof that your dream could become a reality.