The story of Cellar.org?

[Harlan]

I am new as a member, though I have been visiting (lurking?) for a while. Most of the other community sites I've visited don't seem to work... they end up being a couple of posters and dozens of members who post three times then never come back. Or else everyone has the same opinion and it's a big circle jerk.

The only other community I find successful is very rigidly structured and policed and god help you if you didn't read the stickies, rules, and search to see if your question has already been asked and answered. It works in that case. The Cellar seems to be able to thrive with a looser approach.

I don't mean to sound like like a friggin sociologist. I'm not writing a term paper (though that is a hobby of mine). But I am curious: How/when/why did the Cellar start? Is UT alone the founder? Did some of you guys know each other (in person) or did you just start yapping online? Why so many members from PA? Why does this work, really? Does the cellar flood during rainy season? Has it been tested for Radon? Is that Willard on the rafters?

I don't mean to start a LoveFest either... I think it's cool and seek understanding. I also wanted to use the term "circle jerk" in one of my first dozen posts. I can now cross that off my to-do list.