MILFORD, PA — The Pike County Historical Society and Museum need some help to cover the cost for the repair of the bluestone steps that grace the front of their building on Broad Street.

“The steps have been deteriorating quite rapidly over the last few years, and we fear another snow-filled winter will be detrimental,” said Lori Strelecki, museum director. The cost of the project, which is being undertaken by Annunziata Masonry, is close to $9,000.

The Columns is a 1904 mansion, built for Jersey City businessman Dennis McLaughlin, in the neo-classical style. The architect, Charles Fall, was known for his designs of brick buildings when the terra-cotta craze hit the big cities in the late 1800s. A friend of McLaughlin’s, Fall must have relished the idea of designing something not brick, and it shows in the many elements of architecture incorporated into the 22-room “summer home”; known as “The Columns.” To make a donation, mail it to Pike County Historical Society (PCHS) 608 Broad St., Milford, PA 18337 All donations are tax deductible, and donors will receive recognition in our newsletter and gifted a year’s membership to the historical society.