Don, Ken,
One of the main benefits of being a TTRAG member is participation in their member meeting in the fall. This is a very intensive symposium that include some in-depth tours of old buildings. It's sort of like how the original TTRAG Conferences were like, that quickly outgrew that format.
Another advantage is that TTRAG members are looked to for advice by the public as well as members. They are the recognized experts in the Guild on historic timber frames.
Many TTRAG members do not use the internet so I wouldn't expect them to be the mainstay of an online group.
After the initial membership criteria of surveys and presentations the only requirement to maintain membership is an annual presentation at the member meeting, or a survey. These presentations are very informal and may only be 10-15 minutes long. TTRAG members don't find this onerous and ensures their membership includes serious students of the craft.
