Looking for something to combat the impacts of quarantines and restrictions imposed by the ongoing pandemic, in addition to the creep of cabin fever? The Pike County Historical Society (PCHS) is offering some imaginative options to help us cope while, in turn, receiving support to sustain the valuable local nonprofit organization.

The PCHS’s Columns Museum has reopened to the public with COVID-19 protocols in effect on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m. The 1904 neo-classical 22-room mansion, located at 608 Broad St. in Milford, PA, is a majestic building boasting two floors of historical exhibits and unusual artifacts that will intrigue nature lovers and history buffs alike.

Ease your isolation by viewing a short film narrated by the family of illustrator Frank E. Schoonover, a major artist during the Golden Age of Illustration (1880-1930). According to the PCHS, Schoonover spent a considerable amount of time in Bushkill, PA and was friends with famed author Zane Grey, whose former home in Lackawaxen Township, PA is now operated as the Zane Grey Museum by the National Park Service.

Schoonover’s appreciation of nature, Native Americans, the Delaware River and surrounding areas are evident in his artwork. Schedule a private screening of the film for a small group of family or friends by appointment and in observance of current COVID-19 protocols.

The PCHS is also offering guided eagle watch walks with avid eagle watcher Courtney Barden along the Lackawaxen River at 9 a.m. on February 7, 15, 21 and 28. The walks will begin at the historic Lock House 16 in Glen Eyre and continue for several miles. Reservations are required.

Additional outdoor adventure is available with the second “Hunt For History with Abe Lincoln,” also offered by PCHS. “On The Trail with Lincoln” will take participants to Rowe’s Mill Forestry Camp and High Point State Park in response to questions, tasks and riddles. For a $25 fee, participants will receive a Lincoln Bobble Head Doll needed for completion of photo tasks included in the hunt. The contest continues through March. All correct entries will be placed in a drawing for prizes. See more information for both programs on page 15.

Nonprofit organizations like the PCHS, which typically operate on very tight budgets, are facing even greater challenges to remain viable now. If you have the means to do so, the PCHS would warmly welcome your financial support during these cold winter days. Call 570/296-8126 or email museum director Lori Strelecki at pikemuse@ptd.net for more information on any of the above, or visit www.pikehistorical.org.