Rose S. Prinzi
We are all driven by different passions, emotions and influences. History continually reminds us of individuals who have achieved unheard of heights with their undeterred drive.
Such was the case with Marshal Martz. It was his fervent aspiration to build the largest telescope in the world by an individual. With the loyal support of his wife, Mary, and dedicated volunteers like Gary Nelson, Marshal Martz succeeded in making his dream come true with the construction of the Martz Observatory.
This was the Martzes’ gift to our community and future generations. However, this is not the only gift the Martzes left for our community. The Marshal and Mary Martz Fund, established at the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation, is designed to assist undergraduate sophomore, junior or senior college students, majoring in astronomy or physics relating to astronomy. This fund aims to help local youth achieve their dreams.
With his passion for astronomy and math, Marshal Martz became an instructor at Jamestown Community College. His enthusiasm for the subjects was so contagious that his influence has led three local students to receive their doctorate in astrophysics.
Today, the Marshal Martz Observatory on Robbin Hill Road in Frewsburg is a testimony as to how one man can make his dreams come true. Construction of the telescope began in the early 1960’s. It took Professor Martz six years to shape the glass of the telescope into a concave mirror. And between 1978 through 1979, Professor Martz did enjoy the unique achievement of having built the largest telescope in the world by an individual. He died on August 21, 1979.
With the unswerving support of his late wife and numerous volunteers, the Observatory continues to serve our area. The Marshal Martz Memorial Astronomical Association was founded by Professor Martz in October 1978. The Association became incorporated in 1986, making it a public entity. Today, this Association, staffed by volunteers, continues to “promote and educate the public, in general, in the subject of astronomy.” The Community Foundation is there to keep the Martz’s dream alive with funds from our Community Service Grants.
Recently, the USA Weekend magazine featured the 40th Anniversary of man’s first landing on the Moon; the date was July 20, 1969. Apollo 11’s journey was a dream that became a reality with the passion and determination of the human spirit.
So, it is fitting that on the 40th Anniversary of man’s historic moment in space, we are able to view the heavenly skies and see the celestial body that made history all those many years ago with a local man’s dream and his gift to a generation of star gazers.
You can give a gift to your community. It does not have to be monumental as building an observatory, but your decision to make a gift for future generations to enjoy can happen. Contact the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation at 661-3390. We can help make your dream to give to the community become a reality.