The Astronomical Society of Rowan County (A.S.R.C.) was established and has been serving Rowan County's growing astronomical community since June 21, 1981.  The organization is the direct result of the efforts put forth by Mrs. Ellen Trexler,  Mr. Grady Withers and  Mr. Jim Torrence.

 Mrs. Trexler is a retired educator in the Rowan County School System, and former Space Science Specialist for the Margaret C. Woodson Planetarium. She has been the driving force behind the A.S.R.C. 

 Mr. Torrence, now deceased,  was a professional photographer with a love for astronomy. Mr. Torrence aided the organization in developing the original bylaws which govern our club.

  Mr. Withers, also deceased, was a chemist by trade with a firm background in astronomy, amateur radio, and electronics, very active in the clubs early years before cancer set in. Mr. Withers also assisted Mrs. Trexler in teaching an observational astronomy class at Catawba College using the institutions 15-inch telescope which is mounted atop the science building.

 In the clubs early years meetings were held at the Margaret C. Woodson Planetarium. The facility underwent an upgrade in the late 1980's, even implementing a few additions recommended by the astronomy club such as the observing deck and an elevator for access by handicapped persons. Unfortunately, after the renovations were completed to the facility, budgetary restrictions mandated that persons or clubs must start paying a usage fee to gain access to the facility. For a small astronomy club with limited financial resources the cost was too high and the club was forced to find alternate accommodations and thus began meeting at members homes.