On this episode of What Remains we are having our first guests, Worshipful Master Michael Dove and Senior Warden Seth Roderick from Fredericksburg Masonic Lodge No. 4.

Instead of focusing on one object, we dive into several important pieces of Fredericksburg and Masonic history. Learn about what Freemasonry is, how a very special Bible made it to the World's Fair, what's in a cornerstone, and we even make it to the cemetery.

Join us as we find out...What Remains.

Music Credit: "Phantom Waltz Dance" by Stocktune, used with permission.

When a curious metal tool sparks a deep dive into Fredericksburg’s gaslight era, Kylie uncovers a story of innovation, forgotten history, and unexpected preservation.

From 19th-century lamplighters to a lone surviving gas lamp outside the museum, this episode explores how even the smallest objects can shine a light on the past.

In this episode of What Remains, we explore:

• The story behind a lamplighter’s step in FAM’s collection

• How Fredericksburg’s streets were first lit by gas in the 1860s

• The quirky rules around moonlight and lamp lighting

• A long-lost gas lamp rediscovered in front of the museum

• The preservation efforts that followed

• Derek the Derelict Lamplighter (yes, really)

Thank you to the City of Fredericksburg for supporting preservation efforts and to Mr. F. Freeman Funk for the donation of the lamplighter’s step.

Music Credit: "Phantom Waltz Dance" by Stocktune, used with permission.

In this episode, Kylie and Clarissa uncover the story behind 24 eerily adorable carnival cats in the Fredericksburg Area Museum’s collection—and the wild history they represent. These stuffed leather felines once lived on Scott’s Island, a small patch of land beneath Chatham Bridge better known in the 1920s as Pleasure Island.

But this story stretches far beyond one decade. From patriotic celebrations in the 1800s to fireworks, floating bridges, and yes, carnival games designed to be nearly impossible, Scott’s Island was Fredericksburg’s go-to party spot for over a century. We’ve got dance pavilions, greased poles, early movie nights, and wooden milk bottles you’d never knock over.

What do these strange objects reveal about entertainment,community, and the parts of history we almost forget? Let’s find out!

Music Credit: "Phantom Waltz Dance" by Stocktune, used with permission.