Our History (Timeline)

In the Beginning 1896 - 1920

1896 ~ On April 30 the Grand Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star, of the District of Columbia was founded by Ruth Chapter No.1, Electa No.2, Naomi No.3, Martha No.4, Esther No.5 and Adah No.6.  “ALL” officers of the Grand Chapter were elected.  It was not until 1901 that the Star Points and Grand Organist changed to appointed, followed by the Grand Chaplain in 1916 and the Grand Marshal, Warder and Sentinel in 1919.

1897 ~ On June 5, at the second semiannual session (yes, in the beginning we held two sessions a year), which was held at the Naval Lodge Hall the electric lights failed, and when a gas jet ignited the curtains, considerable damage was done to their elegant furnishings.  Our Worthy Grand Matron Ella Espey served as Worthy Grand Ruth from 1895-1898.  Grand Representative appointments were made annually, and our first three Worthy Grand Matrons received several appointments each, from other jurisdictions.  This was not the intent, so the process was discontinued.

1898 ~ Worthy Grand Matron Carolyn Handy, appointed the first committee for the purpose of establishing a Home.  The ninth triennial was actually held in the District of Columbia.  All of our members were asked to pledge one dollar to help defray expenses.  Past Grand Patron Cabell Williamson was elected to the office of Right Worthy Associate Grand Patron.  On the first day of the session President McKinley hosted a reception for members of the General Grand Chapter.

1899 ~ When Adah Chapter No.6’s charter was arrested, the Worthy Grand Matron, Willie Messinger, was one of its members.

1900 ~ The Masons declined to join with the Eastern Star in building a Home as they were in the process of building a Masonic Temple. 

By 1901, we had nine chapters and 1,634 members.

1902 ~ On March 10, by an Act of Congress signed by President Theodore Roosevelt, the Eastern Star Home of the District of Columbia was incorporated.  The monies for the Home were then separated from the Grand Chapter funds.  “The Ladies Board of Managers” of the Home was appointed to assist the Board of Directors.  This group later became known as “The Auxiliary Home Board.”  This was the primary group that raised money for the Home’s general fund and building fund.  The formation of the White Shrine took place on October 4th.  In November, a Special Session was held to counsel members that the White Shrine was not recognized by the General Grand Chapter nor the Grand Chapter of the District of Columbia.  It was decided that those who were members must resign by the next session or they would be expelled.  This affected several of our members.  Adah Chapter No.9 had their charter arrested as their Worthy Matron & Patron were members of the White Shrine and they refused to renounce.  The salary for the Grand Secretary was fifty dollars, a ritual cost fifty cents and a death notice in the Evening Star was one dollar and thirty-five cents.  In his report, Worthy Grand Patron Charles O’Neill, chastised members for not having the slightest acquaintance with the Ritual or Constitution of the Order.

1904 ~ On January 14, ten acres of land were acquired for the Eastern Star Home to be built on.  Five were donated and the other five were purchased at a cost of $750.  At this time, a building fund was instituted in the amount of $12,500.  September 22 was named “Eastern Star Day” at the World’s Fair in St. Louis, Missouri.  All members donated five cents towards building a “Temple of Fraternity,” which was a pavilion where attendees of the fair could sit down to rest.

1905 ~ It was not until 1905 that the Masonic Fraternity joined with the Eastern Star to assist with the building of the Home.  The cornerstone of the Home was laid on May 17, 1905 by the Grand Lodge using George Washington’s gavel.

By 1906, we had eight chapters and 2,185 members.

1906 ~ The 1906 session was the first year for a Necrology Ceremony.  In the past, our deceased members were only mentioned in the Worthy Grand Matron’s report and listed on a separate page in the session book.  The Home was built in stages so they would not incur any debt.  It was dedicated on October 16, 1906.  The first three residents were two Masons and the widow of a Master Mason. 

1907 ~ The history of the Home can be found in this sessions book.

1908 ~ On January 13, Takoma Chapter No.12 was instituted and consecrated.  The Most Worthy Grand Matron, Ella Washburn, was in attendance and she installed their first officer line.

1909 ~ Dues cards, which were known as “Traveling Cards,” were first issued.  They became known as “Good Standing Cards” two years later.

1910 ~ Our Grand Representative Commissions changed from one year to three-year terms.  The Association of Matrons and Patrons was formed by then Worthy Patron, Arthur Poynton.

By 1911, we are up to twelve chapters and 3,078 members.

1911 ~ In 1911, the salary for the Grand Secretary was increased from fifty dollars a year to two hundred.  The Grand Chapter signed a lease with the Grand Lodge, and for the first time we had regular meeting space at the Masonic Temple on 13th Street.  The Home was up to seventeen guests and it costs us $17.25 per month to feed, clothe and care for each member.  Many felt that this amount was just entirely too much money! The building fund was now approaching $10,000. Our 15th Anniversary was celebrated at the “Church of the Ascension” and was officiated by the Assistant Grand Chaplain of the Grand Lodge, Rev. Henning Nelms.  Approximately one thousand sisters and brothers were in attendance and the offering collected was donated to the building fund for the Home.

1912 ~ Past Grand Matron & Patron jewels were designed.

1913 ~ Friendship Chapter No.17 was chartered on January 9.  In March, the Auxiliary Home Board served a luncheon to 4,642 people which netted a total of $965 in profit.  On November 29 when the main building of the Home was completed, 1,073 members met at the Masonic Temple on 13th St, walked over to Union Station, boarded a train to Lamond’s Station, and then walked over for the dedication service.

1914 ~ The Worthy Grand Matron of 1914, Jessie Cowles, got married during her term of office as she needed just one more challenge.

1915 ~ The Masonic and Eastern Star fraternities agreed to hold an annual fund raiser in June on the closest Saturday to St. John’s Day.  All monies raised would go to the Endowment Fund of the Home.  The Worthy Grand Matron was authorized to form an “Endowment Committee,” composed of one member from each subordinate chapter.  Part of their duties were to secure bequests.

1916 ~ The twentieth anniversary of the Grand Chapter was observed at the Masonic and Eastern star Home on Sunday, April 13.  Several hundred were in attendance including many prominent members of the Masonic Fraternity.  There were eighteen pages of resolutions and recommendations listed in the 1916 session book. They were all adopted.  More than half of the book contained the Fraternal Correspondence Report, plus a listing of all members by chapter.

By 1916, we are up to eighteen chapters and 4,253 members.

1918 ~ From October 7, 1918, until November 4th, all meetings and public gatherings were canceled by the Health Department due to an influenza epidemic.

1919 ~ On December 22, a Jubilee was held to celebrate the enlarging of the Home by adding fifty more rooms plus an elevator.  The Home was debt free and the books reflected a surplus of cash.

1920 ~ On January 6, the committee for an Eastern Star Temple held a dance at the brand-new Willard Hotel.  Due to poor planning, the event only netted a total of ten dollars toward the Temple Fund, however, everyone seemed to have a good time at the event.

Golden Anniversary 1921 – 1945

By 1921, we are up to twenty-four chapters and 7,459 members.
1921 ~ We are up to twenty-eight Chapters. The Grand Chapter and the General Grand Chapter are both renting office space on the fifth floor at the new Masonic Temple on 13th Street.  The Home has forty-three residents of which four are children.  Over $22,000 was raised this year for the new Temple Fund.  There was a proposal made to build a hospital on the property at the Home.  An annual baseball game between the Grotto and our Blue Lodges became known as “Field Day.”  This was a most successful fundraiser which brought the endowment Fund up to $64,000. Monies from wills and Chapter donations also continued to help.

1922 ~ Our WGM in 1922, Sister Flora Campbell, was also serving as Worthy Grand Martha.  One hundred and forty pages of the session book were members names listed by Chapter.  The PGM’s & PGP’s Association was formed this year.  The Grand Chapter sanctioned the forming of a Job’s Daughters Bethel.  The General Grand Chapter held the 1922 Triennial in the District of Columbia and one of their decisions was to establish a permanent headquarters in Washington, DC.

1923 ~ There are forty-five adults and twelve children living at the Home.  It was recommended that a separate children’s wing be added as the older residents found the children to be very annoying.  The cost per person at the Home was now up to $35 per month.  The endowment fund is reaching $107,000.

1924 ~ A Book of Instruction was presented, adopted, and printed. The Auxiliary Home Board was working hard to raise money to build the hospital at the Home.  So far, they have raised $12,000.  The Royal Arch Masons completed a beautiful Chapel which was built for the use of the Home.  Job’s Daughters Bethel No.1 now had a membership of 176.

1925 ~ The “Field Day” raised $17,200 towards the Children’s Wing.  The cornerstone for the new wing was laid on October 29th.

By 1926, we are up to 34 Chapters and 12,555 members.

1926 ~ This marked the 50th Anniversary of the General Grand Chapter. Federal Chapter No.38 was Chartered on January 14th.  We are now singing the “Star Spangled Banner” after opening Chapter, although it would not become the National Anthem until 1931.  The Pledge of Allegiance to the flag was adopted in 1942.  The children’s wing was completed this year but was not occupied until 1927.  Our highest membership for the first fifty-years was 12,898 with a total of 39 Chapters.

1927 ~ The Eastern Star bowling league was underway.  We created a new Educational Fund this year.

1928 ~ The Sessions book did not list every member of every Chapter – just the PMs & PPs.  “Worldwide Membership” has reached over two million with over 15,000 Chapters.  The selling of “chances” in the Chapters or in the name of a Chapter was prohibited.  At the triennium in Denver, the District of Columbia delegation proposed that the Bible be opened “before” the Chaplain prays.  This was adopted.  Also adopted was the proposal that all subordinate Chapters are to elect an Associate Patron.  The Grand Chapters always had one.  Our WGM recommended taking $10,000 from the General Fund and putting it in the Temple Fund which was accepted by the members.  At our Grand Session, it was adopted that a dues card must be shown to gain admittance to a meeting.

1929 ~ The total receipts for the Endowment Fund from the first fourteen years of “Field Day Games” was just under $174, 000.  The Job’s Daughters gave the WGM five roses with a $10 gold piece in each one.  This money was earmarked to buy playground equipment for the children at the Home.  A new Charter was granted and Treaty Oak Chapter No.43 became our fortieth Chapter.  Our WGM Sister Pearl Gibb’s is dressed as a flapper in her sessions book!

1930 ~ On October 12th, delegations from the Grand Chapters of DC, MD, VA, PA, WV, NJ and DE met at Valley Forge.  After purchasing a new set of Grand Officers Jewels, we loaned our old set to the newly formed Grand Chapter in New Brunswick, Canada.  A Boy Scout Troop was organized at the Home.  This was the first Sessions Book with pictures of the Grand Officers to include the WMs and WPs all of which were identified (other books had pictures but they didn’t tell you who was who.)

By 1931, we are up to 40 Chapters and 12,255 members.

1931 ~ On November 30, 1931, a General Assembly of Eastern Star members was held at “Memorial Continental Hall.”  This was the first of the three DAR buildings.  One thousand eight-hundred Eastern Star members from DC, MD and VA attended to watch a program written and performed by the WMs & WPs of the District of Columbia.  In her sessions report, WGM Sister Amy Hollander, chastised our members for using the black cube for the purpose of spite and/or revenge.

1932 ~ This was George Washington’s Birthday Bicentennial Year.  On May 3rd, our WGM & WGP along with the MWGM & MWGP had their pictures taken while laying a wreath inside his tomb at Mt Vernon.  There were three hundred members in attendance.  Afterwards a luncheon was held at the Willard Hotel.  Between 1932 and 1946 membership declined to 10,000 and then began to rise again to a peak membership of 12,929 in 1954 with a total of 40 Chapters.  On May 12th, the WGM Edith Williams, was a guest of the Grand Lodge for the dedication of the “George Washington Masonic National Memorial.”  This was followed by a play of the history of the United States the next day.  There were five-hundred and eighty cast members and approximately seventy-five hundred in attendance.  The play was written by two of our members:  Selma Klein from Areme Chapter No.10 and Theodore Lewis from St. Johns Lodge Chapter No.18.  On October 31st, a Special Session was held at the George Washington Masonic National Memorial where one-hundred and thirty-eight candidates were initiated into the Eastern Star by officers of the Grand Chapter.  All participating in the initiation ceremony were wearing colonial attire.  The Home now has seventy-three adults and forty-six children.  The “Campbell-Loffler Sewing Club” started this year to assist with our guests.  This was a busy year for us in the District of Columbia.

1933 ~ The Endowment fund is almost $180,000.  The yearly cost to run the Grand Chapter is now up to $9,500.

1934 ~ The triennial was held in Tampa, Florida.  There were one-hundred and sixty-eight delegates in attendance from the District of Columbia, which was the largest.  Our 1922 WGM Flora Campbell was elected to the office of Right Worthy Grand Treasurer.  We raised almost $1,300 toward establishing an “International Temple.”

1935 ~ Our WGP, Brother Walter Fowler from Electa Chapter, would become MWGP in 1964.  It was decided to publish all members names in the Sessions Book once every five years.

By 1936, 40 year anniversary, we had 40 Chapters and 10,947 members.

1936 ~ New Hampshire Avenue was finally extended out as far as the district line and the Home was now able to connect to public water and sewer.  Grand Electa was suspended and a new Grand Electa was installed.  No reason given. Grand Representative appointments have been going to PGMs & PGPs and many members are being re-appointed.  This is the same problem that we are facing today, however, they had over 10,000 members to pick from! Games of chance were outlawed by the city so no more 50/50’s, door prizes, raffles or bingo.  Since card games were considered games of skill, they were okay.

1937 ~ The 1937 triennial was held in Indianapolis.  The cost of a hotel room was $5.00.  The train trip from Washington, DC totaled $25.10.  The District of Columbia delegation proposed that the station of Associate Patron be optional as it was getting hard to find men willing to commit to two years as an officer in our subordinate Chapters.  Job’s Daughters Bethel No.3 was started this year.  We would see a total of nine Bethels in the District of Columbia.  As membership slowly declined, they consolidated into just one, Bethel No.10, and then disbanded in 1985.  From Fraternal Correspondence: The WGM of Wisconsin stated in her report that “Silence Was Golden” and that members must “Shut Up” and “Get Along!”  1937 marked the 150th Anniversary of the signing of the US Constitution, and many patriotic events were held.  At Grand Chapter Session, the pages wore red & blue capes, placed crowns on their heads, held electric torches, and performed as “Lady Liberty.”  On February 24th, the International Eastern Star Temple, formerly the Belmont Mansion, was dedicated.  Our WGM Sister Elizabeth Carnahan was appointed official hostess for the three day “Open House.”  The new GGC Headquarters was purchased for a mere $100,000 and that price also included many of the furnishings.  At Sessions, a charter was requested for “Helen B. Strait Chapter No.44.”  (She was our 1924 WGM.)  The committee was dived so a ballot was held and the charter was denied.  The feeling was that we didn’t need any more Chapters as we were losing membership.  Also, they were naming their Chapter after a living person which was frowned upon so much that the membership passed a resolution that no Chapter could do that!

1938 ~ Our annual “Field Day” became known as the “Night of Thrills.”  This was an annual fundraiser sponsored by the Master’s Association to benefit the Masonic and Eastern Star Home.  This event was held at the old Griffith Stadium, which stood on the site where Howard University Hospital is now located.  It was owned by Brother Clark Griffith of Harmony Lodge No.17.  He also owned the Washington Senators baseball team.  The “Night of Thrills” started off with a baseball game, followed by a band concert, then all Masonic bodies marching in full regalia.  A pageant queen, a circus including ten acts of professional clowning and ending with an over-the-top fireworks display.  After the Senators moved to Minnesota in 1961, Griffith Stadium was essentially closed.  This would mark the end of twenty-five years of fruitful fundraising for our Home.  We are down to six Job’s Daughters Bethels.  Across the United States there are over 450 Bethels and 200,000 girls.  The enactment of social security was causing difficulties at the Home.  Was it better to supplement the $30 per month social security payment and let our residents reside in their own home, or admit them upon which time their social security check would stop as it was not transferable?  The monthly cost per person per month is now up to $44.50.

1939 ~ On March 19th, the first Grand Chapter religious service was held at Trinity Methodist Episcopal Church located at 5th and Pennsylvania Avenue, SE.  There were over 1000 in attendance.  At a special session on April 1st, it was recommended that we buy the “Pink Palace” on 16th St at a cost of $67,500, and so we did.  By the time the year ended two Chapters were meeting in the ballroom and seven sisters were renting bedrooms which were located on the 3rd and 4th floors.  There was a total of sixteen bedrooms in all.  This year marked the 150th Anniversary of the adoption of the United States Constitution.  On April 29th, at the George Washington Masonic National Memorial, the Grand Chapter Officers, wearing colonial costumes, initiated 298, affiliated 34, and re-instated 12 for a total of 344 new members.  This was called the “Constitution Class.”  They used Washington’s Bible from Fredericksburg Lodge, and his gavel from Potomac Lodge.  Afterwards, an initiation dinner was enjoyed at the George Mason Hotel.  At the May 2nd Session, the Eastern Star Temple Auxiliary Board and Chapter Boards were established to raise funds to erect a Temple.  On June 29th, the Grand Chapter met to dedicate the Pink Palace site as our Eastern Star Temple Property.  Due to rain, they met in the ballroom instead of the beautiful landscaped gardens.  To raise money for the new Auxiliary Temple Board they held a garden party, card party, sold Temple Builder buttons and OES cookies.  Along with Chapter donations almost $6,000 was raised.

1940 ~ One hundred and eighty members joined together and traveled by train to San Francisco to attend the triennium.  This was the largest all first-class pullman train ever to travel from coast to coast.  What a trip!  In the Fraternal Correspondence: The mother of the Queen of England, Queen Elizabeth I, is a member of the Eastern Star of Scotland.

By 1941, we held at 40 Chapters and 10,361 members.

1941 ~ At the 1941 Grand Session our WGP, Brother Joseph Batt, asked Chapters to consider consolidating as it was better to have fewer strong Chapters than many weak ones.  The WGM appointed a “Grand Representative at Large” whose job was to visit our sick and elderly members. This session took place exactly one month after the attack on Pearl Harbor.

1942 ~ Ruth Chapter No.1 celebrated their 50th birthday, with six of their seven living charter members in attendance.  Because of WWII they did not plan a big celebration.  Grand Visitations are doubled up this year due to war time restrictions.  Our Red Cross unit composed of 503 members made over 6000 garments.  Air raid instructions were practiced at Schools of Instruction.  We raised enough money to buy three ambulances, each at a cost of $1,447.  One was sent to the west coast, one stayed in the District of Columbia and the last one was sent to the Atlantic seaboard.  The Masonic Relief Center was set up for the comfort of servicemen, and the Eastern Star provided meals and entertainment.  We raised $2,000 for this effort.

1943 ~ We are working hard for the war effort.  We held fourteen courtesy initiations for servicemen from other jurisdictions. Our WGM, Sister Irma Smith, stated that her gavel was used by each of her WMs at Grand Visitations.  This is the first time that this was mentioned in a Sessions Book.  All sixteen sleeping rooms at the “Pink Palace” are now occupied.

1944 ~ Our WGM Sister Elviria Magdeburger, wanted to donate an organ to be placed on a Navy ship to be used for religious services.  After raising the money and buying an organ the Navy Department ruled that no organs could be placed on their ships.  So, on May 14, 1944, the organ was shipped to the newly built Naval Chapel at Pearl Harbor.  The WM of Leahi Chapter No.2, along with 40 members of various Honolulu Chapters, dedicated the organ.  The plaque reads, “Presented to the United States Navy by the Order of the Eastern Star of the District of Columbia.”  Our membership purchased over $815,000 in war bonds and stamps.  This was enough to purchase a B-29 Super-Fortress Bomber.  A picture of the bomber named “The Flying Star” was given to the WGM & Patron.  The “Pink Palace” is self-sustaining for the second year with a rental income of almost $14,000.  There is a waiting list of seventy-eight women for the sixteen rooms.  The Grand Lecturer, M.E. Teachum, aka me teach, was sick for half of the year and finally retired after forty-four years of service.  She was made Grand Lecturer Emeritus and awarded her current salary of $600 for the rest of her life.  She died less than a year later.  It was then passed that the office of Grand Lecturer would be an elected office.  Electa Chapter No.2 celebrated fifty-years with a banquet held at the Statler Hotel.  The WGP’s report at Sessions was very different as it was in sections.  Section 1 stated in one sentence that he had performed all of his duties.  Section 2 stated his acknowledgement of all courtesies.  And Section 3 was titled observations, conclusions and recommendations.  The Jurisprudence Committee refused permission for it to be printed.  1945/1946 – This is when we decided that the cover date on the sessions book is the year installed (new) instead of the year of the session (old).  This explains why there are two 1946 session books.  The Grand Secretary, Rose Yost, retired after forty-five years, and the Grand Treasurer, Lillie McKenzie retired after twenty years of service.  We held a special meeting to discuss selling the “Pink Palace” for $100,000.  This was approved.

1945 ~ As this was our fiftieth year, the Grand Chapter celebrated with a gala three-day festival.  The 1946 session was known as the “Golden Session.” Naomi Chapter No.3 also turned fifty.  We only had one child resident at the Home and a recommendation was made to convert the children’s wing to adult use.

By 1946, we maintained 40 Chapters and 10,708 members.

Diamond Jubilee 1946 – 1970

1946 ~ The War is over!!  FDR was succeeded by Harry Truman, who was not only our President, but also a PP of Grandview Chapter in Missouri.  At our May session, there was a tribute to the 55 50-year members that were in attendance.  On May 7th, at the Willard Hotel, the Grand Chapter initiated 186 candidates.  There were over 1,000 members in attendance.  The first Lawn Party and Bazaar at the Home was held on June 8th with 800 in attendance.

1947 ~ The WGP Brother Ralph Bonnett recommended in his report that gold buttons should be presented to our 50-year members.  He also stated that meetings are often too long and boring, therefore, many stay home or leave early.  One of the projects of the WGM Sister Nora Riley was combatting Juvenile Delinquency by supporting Boy’s Clubs.

1948 ~ The WGP Brother George Casey stated in his report that more women needed to speak up during the session’s business and that the Eastern Star did not really need male officers.  He also felt that it should be required for all members to memorize the Obligation.  We established a Hospitality Committee to entertain our Distinguished Guests.  Found in Fraternal Correspondence: There has been a gavel circulating since 1939 which was first used by the WGM of North Carolina.  So far, it has also been used by 36 other WGMs and one MWGM.  After it passes through every jurisdiction, the gavel will be returned to the Masonic Museum in Greensboro, NC.  Pennsylvania is the only state with an uncordial relationship between the Eastern Star and the Masons.  In the District of Columbia, the Grand Master receives “Grand Honors” as a courtesy. The Grand Lodge and Grand Chapter “denied” the Amaranth permission to form a Chapter in the District of Columbia.  The Education Committee wrote off all existing unpaid loans and then disbanded.  The song, “Bless Be the Tie” was added to the initiation ceremony.  The Grand Lodge recognized DeMolay in 1948.  The religious service this year was held just after installation at the WGM’s church instead of just before session.  It was very unusual that we were able to hold our session in the Scottish Rite Temple as they rarely offered the use of their building for other purposes. The Grand Master appointed a committee to investigate how the Home was being managed, however, he soon passed away and the Grand Lodge voted to disband the committee.  There was a favorable vote to start an “Eastern Star Temple Building and Maintenance Committee.”  Five members would be voted on by the Grand Chapter and 2 from each subordinate Chapter.  This would now consolidate all groups working to raise funds for a Temple.

1949 ~ The “Night of Thrills” was televised, and it raised $30,000 with 25,000 in attendance.  At the triennial in Toronto, our WGM of 1936, Sister Louise Kreglow was installed as WG Warder.  We held 18 Schools of Instruction this year with an average attendance of 106.  The highest night reached 243.

1950 ~ This year got off to a rousing start as the MWGM gave the Obligation at the Altar.  Our WGM Ray Wonderly stated that she was proud of the fact that she was the wife, mother, daughter, and sister of Master Masons.  She was a member of Martha Chapter and served as Grand Martha in 1929, so naturally she titled her session, “The Martha Session.”  The $32,000 raised for a new infirmary at the Home was returned to the Chapters as the children’s wing was converted to an infirmary instead.  The WGP recommended in his report that “Line Nights” be discontinued as he felt they wasted valuable time and that because we were so small, Associate Nights were enough to get acquainted with the people that we already know.  The market value of the Endowment Fund has reached $700,000.  Since it looks like an Eastern Star Temple was not going to happen any time soon, the WGM recommended refurbishing the 5th and 6th floors of the Masonic Temple on 13th St.  New seating, soundproofing, and redecorating was approved.  This was the 100th anniversary of the writing of the Eastern Star ritual and the MWGM asked the District of Columbia to host a dinner for 300 plus a sightseeing tour for 1,000 members.  The “Night of Thrills,” which always crowned a Queen, crowned a King this year.  Net profit was over $27,000.

By 1951, we maintained 40 Chapters and grew to 12,592 members.

1951 ~ Our WGM Sister Doris Riley felt that we were not doing enough for the members at the Home so her Special Project was hosting birthday parties.  One hundred and nine to be exact!  The Guests also received a birthday card with a dollar bill inside.  All guests at the Home were now receiving a spending allowance of $5.00 per month.  The bowling league is twenty-five years old.  In November, the mortgage was paid off on the Singleton Lodge Hall and they celebrated by throwing a big party!

1952 ~ At our session held in May, a favorable vote was taken to abolish the May session and from this time forward only have one session per year which will be in January.  This motion had failed several times in the past.  WGM Sister Anne Guilford’s Special Project was wills for the Endowment Fund.  One hundred and ten were written her year.  Studying the Landmarks of our Order was the focus of the Work & Lecture’s Committee.  One big Birthday Party for all guests was held at the Home with cards, one-dollar bills, cake, ice cream and entertainment.  A joint Masonic and Eastern Star religious service was also held at the Home.  At the Grand Visitations, the WGM had the Chapter officers do a section of ritualistic work, the Grand Secretary reported on membership and other statistics and the Grand Treasurer reported on the financial condition of the Chapter.

1953 ~ There has been much talk stirring around about the Board of Directors who run the Home.  The WGM states in her report that there needs to be term limits, new management, and new personnel.  Also, in her report is the Chapter’s misuse of the black cube and the evilness of our tongues and the harm that our words have on others.  From Fraternal Correspondence: One Eastern Star Chapter in South Carolina has rocking chairs for all the officers.  There is one Chapter in Puerto Rico where a father, a mother and 11 of their children are serving as 13 of the 18 officers.

Our peak membership of almost 13,000 was reached in 1953.

1954 ~ The first Grand Representatives luncheon was held in 1954 and this was also the first year for ESTARL.  Fourteen scholarships were awarded.

1955 ~ It has become routine in our Grand Chapter that the Grand Lecturer is elected to the office of AGC.  We voted to sponsor PGP Walter Fowler as RWG Sentinel, however, he was defeated.  The Endowment Fund has reached one million dollars.  This year was dedicated to the 50-years of service of Sister Katherine Gude, WGM in 1905.  She started the tradition of appointing Grand Officers from the WMs & WPs of the subordinate Chapters.  She also laid the cornerstone for the Home.  We voted to again sponsor Walter Fowler as RWG Sentinel and a “Candidacy Fund” was set up. A motion was adopted to contribute 25¢ per person per year to cover the expenses of having a MWGP.

By 1956 - 40 Chapters and 12,929 members.

1956 ~ This year marks the 50th year of the Home.  A donation from one will in the amount of $82,577 was enough money to redo the kitchen.  There are currently 3 children, 53 regular residents and 61 infirmary residents at the Home.  Four-hundred and fourteen Eastern Star members and friends boarded a special train to Delaware for a tour of “Winterthur” the DuPont’s home and museum.  Brother Clark Griffith passed away and the Eastern Star, along with the Masons, placed a bronze plaque at Griffith Stadium in his honor.  A favorable vote was taken to acquire Grand Representative pins.

1957 ~ Found in Fraternal Correspondence: Indiana does not allow its members to own Rituals and Kentucky Chapters must hold initiation ceremonies “twice” a year whether there are candidates or not.  We became one hundred per cent compliant with our donation of one dollar from every member for the “International ES Headquarters.”

1958 ~ Brother Walter Fowler was elected as RWG Sentinel.  Total assets of the Home are over $2.6 million.  The 1958 cookbook raised $5,000 for the Infirmary Project at the Home.  The WMs held a dinner and auction which raised $1,072.15 and the WPs held a variety show which raised $527.  Takoma Chapter held its Golden Anniversary Banquet on January 30, 1958.  The officers wore “Golden Gowns” to the banquet and again on their Chapter’s Birthday Night.

1959 ~ The WGM of 1959 broke with tradition and selected her Appointed Grand Officers from PMs & PPs.  Also in 1959 the session was moved from January to May.  We took an option on property at 16th & Taylor St, NW for an Eastern Star Temple, however, our zoning application was turned down.

1960 ~ The WGM Sister Veleita Prather also selected her Appointed Grand Officers from PMs & PPs.  She thought it was too much for a WM to be both a leader in her Chapter and a Grand Officer.  During installation, the Grand Star Points were brought to the East and given bibles instead of flowers.  Since the Sessions date was changed from January to May this year the current Grand Officers served for 16 months.  The “Golden Compass Ball” was a joint affair between the “1960 Masters Association” and the “1960 Association of Matrons & Patrons.”

By 1961, we maintained 40 Chapters and 12,905 members.

1961 ~ In November, 300 of our members traveled by trains, planes, and cars to the 30th triennium in Miami, Florida to witness Brother Fowler’s installation as RWAGP.  We are no longer according grand honors to the Grand Master.

1962 - This would be the last year for the “Night of Thrills.”  WGM Sister Lavina Tarr’s father painted a picture for the Chapel at the Home called “The Good Shepherd.”  The WMs & WPs of 1962 replaced it with a stained-glass window, which was identical to the painting.  At a Special Session, “Temple Building & Maintenance” was incorporated.  The “Shrine Circus” netted $20,000, donating all the proceeds to the Home.  The WGM instituted the “Star Ladies” who assisted with our guests.  From Fraternal Correspondence: There is a WP in Nebraska who has served for 34 consecutive years.

1963 ~ The WGM’s gavel was made from wood from the White House obtained when it was renovated in the 1950’s.  There was a massive fire at the Masonic Temple in Georgetown.  All three Chapters lost their paraphernalia and meeting place and one also lost their charter.  Mizpah Chapter moved to Stansbury Lodge Hall, Cathedral Chapter to Naval Lodge Hall, and Treaty Oak Chapter to St. Luke’s Methodist Church in Georgetown.  Anacostia Lodge has finished the work on their Lodge room and banquet hall so Electa and Bethlehem Chapters are moving in.  The Grand Secretary, Sister Hazel Engelbrecht wanted to retire after 18 years.  After the first ballot, she was reelected, and stated, “Vote for someone else.”  After the second ballot she was reelected again and said, “No.”  After the third ballot she was reelected and said, “Well, Okay.”  She served for two more years.  Friendship Chapter celebrated their 50th birthday.

1964 ~ This is the founding year for the Grand Representatives Association.  A membership committee and a talent committee were instituted:  One to increase membership and the other to find and to utilize the talents of our members.  Brother Fowler is serving as the MWGP and PGM Sister Doris Riley is appointed WG Adah.  WGM Sister Juanita Bush states in her report that the Grand Chapter is going broke, though it does have sizable assets in the Temple Fund.  The infirmary at the Home was finally air conditioned!  We have a new GGC Committee - “Knights Templar Eye Foundation,” and our very own PGP Harry Beach was appointed as its first Chairman.

1965 ~ A resolution was issued that those who felt the need to speak at a meeting should limit themselves to no more than five minutes (ten minutes max) and if the speaker was known to ramble then a prepared script should be read.

By 1966, our 70th anniversary, we maintained 40 Chapters and 10,523 members.

1966 ~ The WGP Brother Lee Wolfe made a gavel for his WGM Sister Edythe Hepner from four different woods acquired from the White House renovation.  These four woods were to symbolize her four-year journey to the East.  The Chapters having birthdays after August had their Birthday Night combined with their Grand Visitation.  By combining the two they saved time and money.  Medicare started in June which was a big help with the costs at the Home.  There were over 200 in attendance at the Grand Representatives luncheon at session.  TB&M vehemently refused to divert $3,000 of its money to the Grand Chapter general fund.

1967 ~ The Triennial presided over by Brother Walter Fowler, was held in Washington, DC.  Registration totaled 6,584.  Harry Beach, Chairman of the Knights Templar Eye Foundation, turned in the most money from any Grand Jurisdiction for his committee.  The Grand Lecturer noted that many officers were serving again and again in key positions and that this is reason for concern.

1968 ~ The riots in April of ‘68 and subsequent curfew, forced the cancellation of some installations which were rescheduled for the end of the month.  An interchapter newsletter was started, however, only three issues were published.  Ruth Chapter No.1 celebrated their 75th anniversary.  All money raised for the Home this year came from voluntary contributions and not from any sponsored activities.  An International Buffet was held serving 560 members and friends.  The food was donated and represented eight different countries.  Money left from the triennial was put in a reserve fund for the use of the Grand Chapter.  It was discussed that the Grand Chapter was going broke and the possibly of assessing the membership is being considered.  It was also stated that since we were not buying property, the Grand Chapter should be allowed to use the interest on the Temple Fund which was worth over half a million dollars.  We are giving the new Grand Secretary Emeritus $600 a year in retirement.

1968 ~ WGM Sister Virginia Kemp’s special project was youth.  Fourteen ex-Job’s Daughters were initiated into the Order this year, one of which was Lynda Jo Coleman.  We organized the PAGO Association this year.  The MWGM’s Special Project was a Chapel at the International Peace Gardens.  From Fraternal Correspondence: Utah Mormons cannot be accepted into the Order.  In Oregon, Brothers wear a pin that is shaped like a pair of scissors.  They will point their pin toward a long-winded speaker indicating to, “Cut it short!”  Grand Representatives designed a pin to be worn to identify oneself as a Past Grand Representative.  The Grand Representatives Association paid for ALL visiting Grand Representative’s meals at the luncheon.

1969 ~ We are saw a man land on the moon.  This was also the first year that PAGOs were introduced at Sessions.  Electa No.2 and Naomi No.3 both celebrated their 75th anniversary.

1970 ~ And now the Diamond Jubilee year - 1970.  The Jewish flag was presented this year for the first time.  WGM, Sister Doris Rabbitt, sprinkled silver glitter in her hair and all her greetings were written in verse.  Jim Coleman, who was not yet old enough to be a member, was affectionally known as the “Baby Sparkler,” and was made an honorary member of the 70-Association.  The highlight of the year was the “Diamond Jubilee Ball & Dinner” which was held at the Sheraton.

Century of Stars 1970 – 1995

By 1971, 75th year Anniversary, we have maintained 40 Chapters and 8,980 members.

1971 ~ Our WGM’s motto was O+E=S which stood for Opportunity plus Enthusiasm equals Success.  This year saw 5-Chapter consolidations.  We had a total of 172 members who received their 50-year pins.  The President of the Home cited that problems with the DC Government were increasing.  ESTARL became a standing committee this year.  The Endowment Committee sponsored a trip to London to raise funds for the Grand Chapter.

1972 ~ Nancy Gulley and husband Keith were WM & Patron of Friendship Chapter as her mother, Frances Kern, was serving as WGM.  There were 3-pages of corrections to the 1971 proceedings.  We have lost eleven Chapters in two years.  “Gold Cards,” that come with 50-year membership pins, started this year.  The PAGO Association purchased “traveling jewels” for the Grand Officers to wear and to pass on.

1973 ~ Grand Secretary, Irene Ruskin, stated that the office of Grand Secretary required far too much work and that she was retiring.  We changed the Constitution so that you couldn’t be a Grand Representative and a Grand Officer jointly.  We sponsored PGM Sister Virginia Kemp for RWG Secretary, but she lost to Sister Virginia Jones.  We are down to 25 Chapters.  The Grand Chapter trip was to Portugal and Spain.

1974 ~ WGP Donald Woodburn, had the honor of presenting his mother with her fifty-year pin.  She was a member in Illinois.  There were serious issues with finances this year, however, the highlight of the year, well maybe even of the entire history of the Grand Chapter, was that James Coleman was finally old enough to be initiated into Takoma Chapter.

1975 ~ We discussed the wearing of pant suits for Chapter meetings.  It was approved for sideliners but not for Chapter Officers.  The Home reported two pending employee lawsuits and on-going trouble with the DC Government.  We voted favorably to reissue PGM & PGP jewels.  TB&M decided that it would make sense to invest in the Masonic Temple on 13th St by purchasing the two lots located behind the Temple and building a parking structure.  They wrote a letter to the Grand Lodge, but no response was ever received.  A joint cruise to the Bahamas was sponsored with the Grand Lodge.  From Fraternal Correspondence: For the first time in 54-years, the WGM of Pennsylvania was invited to the Grand Lodge Communication.  Federal Chapter No.38 turned 50 and held a banquet at the Sheraton Park Hotel.

By 1976, we maintained 25 Chapters and 7,369 members. Note: within the previous five years, we lost fifteen Chapters, mostly through mergers.

1976 ~ Gertrude Foreman’s husband died 6-weeks prior to her installation as WGM.  We presented the Jewish Flag but not the Canadian Flag.  The Grand Lodge and Grand Chapter jointly sponsored a cruise to Mexico and other ports.

1977 ~ We presented the Canadian Flag and sang “O, Canada” for the first time.  The Home introduced plan B which was, “Pay as You Go.”  This enabled Sisters and Brothers to enter the Home without giving up their assets.  The Bowling League celebrated its 50th Anniversary.  The expenses of the Home made it necessary to use monies from both the endowment and securities fund which totaled almost 5 million dollars.  If we sign Title VI, we will be eligible for $1,000,000 a year in relief, but the Home could no longer serve our Fraternal Family exclusively.  We attempted to buy property located next to the Scottish Rite Temple, however, we moved too slowly and lost out.  We were considering joining with the Masons in building a Temple on the property at the Home.

1978 ~ Nineteen meetings were called off in February due to hazardous weather.  The bowling league disbanded due to a lack of interest.  The Grand Lodge and Grand Chapter sponsored a joint trip to Hawaii.  Three OES meetings were held at the Home so that our guests might participate.  WGP Brother H. Kenneth Kingsbury presented his 90-year-old mother with her 50-year pin.  She was a member in Nebraska.  We made an offer on property at 1770 Euclid St, NW.  Our offer was not accepted.

1980 ~ This was our first Grand Chapter Session to be held outside of the city limits.  Open Installations in the Chapters and Grand Chapter were now permitted.  This was the first year that the DeMolay were presented at session.  The Bible and Emblem Ceremony was presented by the Grand Wife, Sister Dorothy Todd.  The participants were all Job’s Daughters which included her daughter Kathy Todd, a friend Nancy-Hope Fletcher and soloist Connie Thornley.  Naomi Chapter gave the WGM Sister Katherine Miller $10,000 for her Special Project – the Home.  Scenes from a movie titled, “The First Family” starring Bob Newhart, were filmed on location which made over $4,000 for the Home.  A new cookbook was published which raised $7,000. The Grand Secretary Emeritus, who had been receiving $600 a year since 1964 passed away.  After 85-years, we have 20 Chapters and almost 6,000 members.

By 1981, we were down to 20 Chapters and 5,931 members.

1981 ~ We rented two 15 passenger vans to attend the WV Grand Session and Ruth Fletcher along with Bill and Dorothy Todd shared in the driving.  The Masons declared that they wanted to sell the Masonic Temple.  This decision would affect 10 of our Chapters.  Our urgent need for a Temple was stressed and a motion to build a Temple on the property at the Home was passed.

1982 ~ Our WGM Ellen Balko had two beautiful white doves attending session.  Apparently, they were a pair as one laid an egg!  This was the first time that Brothers were appointed to the office of Grand Chaplain and Grand Organist.  Six Chapters are now meeting at the Odd Fellows Hall on 7th St and four at the Home.

1983 ~ March 20, 1983 was designated Eastern Star Day and you were invited to “reach out and touch someone.”  Ruth Chapter held its 90th Anniversary and Takoma Chapter its 75th.  A joint “Sweetheart Reception” hosted by the Chapters of the Appointed Grand Officers was a first with over 300 attending the light supper and music.  The neighborhood surrounding the Home opposes the building of a Temple.  The Grand Secretary’s office was moved to the OBA Building at 600 F St, NW.  We had a Harvest Dinner with 153 reservations and 195 showed up.  Some missed out on dessert!  Two PGM jewels were turned in for the expressed purpose of going to 1993’s WGM Sister Maggie Kibbey.  Which one did she get?  The WGP, Ed Y. Jones, read a note from President Ronald Reagan congratulating him and the WGM on their Session.  Sister Helen Martin was elected Grand Secretary.  Twenty-two meetings were canceled due to the weather.  From Fraternal Correspondence: Dale Evans, aka Mrs. Roy Rogers, sang at the 100th Session in Texas.  TB&M went up against the Zoning Board which turned into a free-for-all.

1984 ~ Each night of the session was closed with a song sung by Sister Dorothy Todd.  Net worth of the Home is over $7.1 million.  TB&M has over $1.8 million yet no Temple.  We inquired of Almas Temple to rent space as they were rebuilding but were turned down.  The WGM’s emblem was the “Mailbox.”  She received a letter from the Postmaster General stating that letters really do bring people together in friendship.  Electa and Naomi Chapters turned 90, and each celebrated with a banquet or luncheon.  Several Chapters voted to have only one meeting per month.

1985 ~ Donna Williams lost her mother, grandmother, and husband in the first six months she served as WGM in 1985.  The 90th Birthday party for the Grand Chapter was a luncheon, history, and fashion show.  Thirty-five meetings were canceled, 15 of which were due to bad weather.  There are 32 gold PGM jewels, 2 platinum and 24 gold PGP jewels that are not wanted.  The Grand Trustees recommended melting them down or selling to individuals, however, it was voted down.  The President of MESH stated that the Lodges and Chapters were losing interest in the Home and he cannot understand why.  MESH is still having problems with the DC Government and two offers were received to purchase the Home.  There are 49-residents and it costs $30,000 per year to care for each one.  The admissions policy was changed from ten years of fraternal membership to five and a “Respite Care Program” was established where one could stay at the Home from two weeks to thirty days.  TB&M is now worth over $2.2 million.  They found a place two blocks across the line in MD that was perfect and reasonable for a Temple, however, the WGM in MD said that their Charter wouldn’t allow us to meet there.

By 1986, Continued consolidationn to 17 Chapters and 4,668 members.

1986 ~ This would mark the beginning of the end of the Masonic and Eastern Star Home.  Because of all the problems with the DC Government, the Board of Directors negotiated the sale of the Home to Medlantic Long-Term Care Corporation for $4.7 million.  Four of our Chapters would now need to relocate.  We tried to buy property at 408 4th St, SW but it was sold to the DC Government instead.  A request of the Grand Secretary to eliminate the deceased Past Matrons & Patrons in the directory was denied.

1987 ~ We saw the conclusion of the sale of the Home.  We have 35-guests that will remain under the care of Medlantic.  Friendship Chapter celebrated their 75th birthday.  We tried to buy space one half block from the Takoma Lodge Hall.  It did not work out.  Nancy-Hope Fletcher was appointed the first Grand Representative to Australia, and she joined with the General Grand Chapter on their first official visit.

1988 ~ Lots of trips: There was a trip to Shriner’s Hospital in Philadelphia, PA; Gathering of the States in Martinsburg, WV; “Three Bakers” Dinner Theater; Grand Chapter trip to Great Britain; Triennial in Atlanta, GA; and Grand Chapter trip to Nassau, Bahamas.  Sister Fran Witt, who word diligently in search of property for a new Temple, passed away this year.  This was the first year that the religious service was held at the session and this was our first session to be held at the Dulles Marriott.  Sister Betty Briggs was elected to the office of RWGS.  This was the 50th Anniversary of the special initiation held at the George Washington Memorial for 297 members and 61 of them received their 50-year pins this year.

1989 ~ We again tried to lease space at Almas Temple, but once again it fell through.  TB&M now has over $3.1 million.  From Fraternal Correspondence: Alberta, Canada has not had a Worthy Matron repeat in 70-years.

1990 ~ This was the year of “Southern Hospitality” and Brother Paul Iannicelli passed away before seeing the beautiful facade of “Tara” he built for the Grand Ball and Sessions.  This was the first year for preregistration at session.  The Grand Officers provided the entertainment at the Membership Banquet and guess who was the Master of Ceremonies?  WGM Sister Lorraine Dameron and WGP Brother Robert Baker raised $20,000 for their Special Project!

By 1991, we maintained 15 Chapters and 3,461 members.

1991 ~ We held a Special Session to announce the leasing of property at 122 C St for the Grand Chapter.  TB&M reported that Chapters would be charged $50 for stated meetings and that special events would cost $90, which also included full use of the kitchen.  This was a triennial year which was held in St. Louis.  A riverboat cruise on the Mississippi River was enjoyed prior to the triennium.  The captain and his wife were PM and PP of a Chapter in Mississippi.  Actress Helen Hayes was also on board.  MESH assets are over $11.5 million.  233 attended the PAGO breakfast with 291 attending the Grand Representatives luncheon.

1992 ~ Ruth Chapter No.1 celebrated their 100th Birthday.  Open house for our new Temple was held on August 23rd and Federal Chapter No.38 held the first stated meeting in our new home.  The religious services this year were held at C St prior to session.  The WGM Sister Pat Wagner and WGP Brother Ed Reed attended events in nine different Jurisdictions.  The Endowment Committee raised just under $21,000.  Electa Chapter hosted a fun gathering for 125-members visiting from Iowa.  The Joint Reception and the Grand Ball were combined this year so that members did not have to attend two events and pay for two meals.

1993 ~ The Associate Grand Matron got married and became known as Ina Huie.  Our religious service this year was held at the US Naval Academy in Annapolis.

1994 ~ We held a special session to remove the bylaws of TB&M from the Grand Chapter bylaws – vote was favorable though there was a lot of discussion.  Also held a second special session to adopt new election rules and to elect a Grand Treasurer as Sister Dorothy Boyden died in office.  The WGM, Sister Ina Huie was hospitalized upon her return from the Triennial and so was her husband, who suffered a heart attack at BWI.  Our AGM Sister Dorothy Thornley was called into action.  In July, Electa Chapter turned 100 and celebrated at Almas Temple.  Naomi Chapter also turned 100 in January and they celebrated at the Washington Hotel.

1995 ~ The Grand Chapter’s 100th-year was known as, “Century of Stars.” $2,000 checks were given to the American Lung Association, National Kidney Foundation, and the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund.  WGM Sister Dorothy Thornley & WGP Brother Lenny Merryman set up the “Century Club.”  The fee to join was $100.  Eighty members joined up and a total of $7,489.60 was turned in to the Grand Chapter operating fund.  The Grand Chapter trip was to and thru the Panama Canal.  “Century of Memories” a book about our history was compiled and printed along with a new cookbook.  The celebration of our 100th Birthday took place at Ft. McNair on August 19th.  There were 249 in attendance, including the MWGM & Patron, the Grand Master, and the WGMs & Patrons of MD, VA, and DE.  On January 7, 1996, twenty-four inches of snow fell snarling up the entire area.

Starting our next 100 years 1996 – 2021

By 1996, our 100th Anniversary, we maintained 12 Chapters and 2,827 members.

1996 ~ The Grand Chapter trip was to Australia and New Zealand and our WGM Sister Ginger was spotted jumping off the side of a bridge.  The paintings of the Star-Points at C St were commissioned.  MESH funds were just over $18,000,000.

1997 ~ Sad Time.  We lost PGMs, Doris Riley and Virginia Jones and PGPs, Paul Clarke, Jack Spriggs, Kenneth Kingsbury, Maury Minner and Lou Mesmer.  The exchange visit with Maryland held at Friendship Chapter was so well attended that folding chairs were needed.  This is the year MESH Life-Care at Home was proposed by Sister Lenore Phillips.  The Century Club was disbanded with 97 members and a total raised of $8,933.27.  Thank-you Dorothy & Lenny.  This was also the year, after much discussion, that we voted to elect the Grand Sentinel.  Doyle Dilgard was the last Grand Sentinel to be appointed and Commer Thornley was the first to be elected.

1998 ~ Sessions were held on Sat, Sun, and Mon in an attempt to save money.  The Grand Chapter trip was a 15-day cruise from Alexandria, VA to Montreal, Canada.  Forty members signed up.  The Grand Ball was held at La Fontaine Bleu with over 200 in attendance.

1999 ~ The Star-Point note cards, based on the paintings at C St, were the idea of the WGM Sister Dorothy Todd and WGP Brother Bill Bartlett.  Their Session was completed in two days, over a Saturday and Sunday.

2000 ~ On January 24th, there was a fire at C St, and although we did not suffer any damage, cleaning and smoke removal kept us out of the building for a month.  At a special meeting of the Board of Directors, MESH Life-Care at Home became a reality on January 29th.  The Grand Chapter trip was a European cruise, with the highlight being a total eclipse of the sun with astronaut Buzz Aldrin and two astronomers answering questions.  “The Capitol Cut-ups” disbanded this year.  We joined with MD on sponsoring a trip to Nashville, Tennessee.  On February 21, 2001, the MWGM selected the District of Columbia to do a courtesy initiation for the Grand Master and Grand Secretary of Russia, along with their wives.  All was planned and numerous Eastern Star dignitaries were present at Friendship Chapter that night, but due to political events the initiation was canceled.  A lovely night of camaraderie was shared by all in attendance.  The “Belmont Ball” raised over $30,000, half of which went to the Scottish Rite for their Childhood Language Disorders program.

By 2001, we maintained 9 Chapters and 1,854 members.

2001 ~ We lost our oldest Chapter, Ruth No.1, when they consolidated with Friendship Chapter No.17.  A proposal was made to change from having a Work & Lectures Committee to having Deputy Grand Lecturers, however, the proposal was defeated.

2002 ~ WGM Sister Clara Wampler’s Grand Chapter trip was to the International Peace Garden which is located on the border of North Dakota and Canada.  This was also the 50th Anniversary of the dedication of the Eastern Star Chapel located on the grounds.  Afterwards, we headed to Vancouver, Washington for a cruise to Alaska.  MWGM Dorothy Dewing died right before our session and 6-months before her triennium.

2003 ~ The WGM Sister Phyllis Dunan & WGP Brother Roy Rapp were both from the same Chapter.  This was a first!  MESH has $29 million in assets.  There was a discussion to shorten sessions to only two days.

2004 ~ We now have two new Grand Jurisdictions – Sao Paulo, Brazil and Boliva.  Medlantic sold the Home and representatives raced over to save certain artifacts before the buildings were torn down.  The “Good Shepherd” window, now located in the conference room at C St was one.  We still have four guests in residence.  Ron is now President of TB&M.  PGM Sister Dorothy Thornley gave a very heartfelt report on membership that should be read every year in each Chapter.

2005 ~ The Grand Chapter trip to New Orleans in 2005 was canceled as there was not enough interest, however, what a blessing this turned out to be.  It was scheduled when Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans and southern Louisiana.  It was on November 7, 2005 that MESH officially became known as “The Masonic and Eastern Star Home of the District of Columbia Charities, Inc.  They decided to purchase MESH/LCAH from the Pennsylvania company that started the program.  The Todd’s 50th Anniversary was on September 8th.

By 2006, we maintained 6 Chapters and 1,292 members.

2006 ~ The triennial was held in Minneapolis, Minnesota.  Clara Wampler really made the District of Columbia shine when she was installed as Worthy Grand Ruth.  At the triennium it was voted to present 50-year members at the Altar and give them Grand Honors on the night they are presented with their pin.  We voted to change the bylaws to allow Chapter installations in either March or April.  Sister Lenore Phillips stepped down as President of MESH and died one week after Session.  MESH has just over $35 million in assets.  Electa Chapter moved to C St.  We enacted a bylaw change to elect 6-members from the Grand Chapter to MESH instead of 3.  The WGM Sister Donna Davis and WGP Brother Jim Coleman saluted the Past Grand’s with tributes of their year at Grand Visitations.  2006 really was a “Monumental Year.”

2007 ~ This is the year that a car attempted to drive thru 122 C St in the cold temperatures of November.  Sister Libby Virts was presented with her 75-year pin.  Alma Lynn Bane was appointed Right Worthy Grand Secretary pro tem when Bonnie Poindexter resigned.  Takoma Chapter celebrates their 100th Birthday.

2008 ~ This year got off to an incredibly sad start as our WGM Sister Lynda Jo Kinder lost her husband just days before her installation and then her daughter a few months later.  All Chapters held initiations this year and Takoma had the most with seven new members.  Sister Lynda Jo received her 40-year pin.  At sessions, the Star Point chairs were draped with shawls in their appropriate color knitted by the Grand Sentinel, Robert Blaine.  Robert died three months after the installation.  The Grand Chapter trip was to the Western Caribbean and unfortunately the WGM’s mother, Sister Ellen Coleman, fell and broke her hip while on the ship.  The WGM asked the Grand Chaplain for prayer at the conclusion of all Grand Visitations.  Capitol Assembly No.11 of Rainbow Girls started this year.  MESH/LCAH was closed to new members as the IRS got on their case stating that it was self-serving to pay the premiums for their own members.

2009 ~ We raised over $85,000 for the MWGM’s special project, service dogs.  The Grand Chapter cruise to the Caribbean left from Baltimore following a very heavy snowstorm.  The WGP Brother Bob Proudley and his sister missed the ship, however, they were able to board in Florida.  On September 11th, the Belmont Mansion celebrated 100-years and we held a reception at C Street.  There were over 600 members that attended.  The PAGO luncheon was held at C Street prior to session.  Robert Proudley was our first repeat WGP.

2010 ~ Takoma Chapter initiated 10 new members and received a prize from the WGP Brother Joel Kahn.  It was a custom badge holder made by Lenny Merryman.  The Grand Chapter trip to the Southern Caribbean made $5,777, which was the most of any previous trip.  The Grand Secretary, Jane Frances Grolig stated that she believed that all PGMs & PGPs should be responsible for transcribing their own proceedings.  Grand Visitations were shared, two Chapters per visit, and they were held on Saturdays.  The shawls made by Brother Robert Blaine for the Grand Chapter were used and never recovered after Session.

By 2011, we maintained 6 Chapters and 889 members.

2011 ~ Schools of Instruction were held on Saturdays at 2 PM.  MESH Charities started the Medical Alert program.

2012 ~ PGM Sister Phyliss Dunan was killed in a tragic car accident when returning home from a “Gathering of the States” meeting, which is to be held in the District of Columbia this year.  The event was attended by 240 members from 11 of the 13 original states plus 4 additional jurisdictions.  January 9th marked the 100th Birthday of Friendship Chapter and a celebration was held at Hidden Creek Country Club.  Takoma Chapter held 3-initiations with a total of 16 candidates.  The triennial was held in Fort Worth, Texas and we came back with seven appointments.  This year marked the 20th Anniversary of 122 C Street.

2013 ~ At the Installation of Sister Irene Stadick and Brother Bill Bane, we had a large group in attendance from Texas.  PGM, Sister Olive Panzara received her 75-year pin.  For the Grand Chapter trip, we flew to Boston then boarded a bus and traveled through historic New England and enjoyed the beautiful fall foliage.

2014 ~ Temple Chapter No.13 consolidated with Naomi Chapter No.3 which brings us down to 5 Chapters.  It was also in 2014 that Marie and Fletcher Johnston affiliated with Federal Chapter.  MESH donated $24,000 for the WGM Sister Mezzy and WGP Brother Robert’s Special Project, “Patriot Paws.”  Naomi & Friendship Chapters gave a combined total of $5,500 for the Operating Fund.

2015 ~ The triennial was held in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and we returned with 9-appointments.  Alma Lynn Bane did not stand for reelection for RWG Secretary and Brother Gary Miller was elected.  The exchange visit we hosted on Nov 21st with Delaware, consisted of lunch and a talent show.  The WGP, Neal Jarvis and Grand Chaplain, Jim Coleman were the hit of the afternoon dancing and singing to “Surfer Joe.”  Neal really does looks pretty good without his clothes on!  At a special session in October, we voted to take the Grand Chapter off of the TB&M accounts in the bylaws.  The 1995’s held a pizza party at the home of the Thornley’s to celebrate 20 years of the “Century of the Stars” association.  The Grand Lecturer held a Ritual Competition.  Dorothy Todd won the written exam; Becky Kahn won the Esther Star Point test and Elly Merrick the Chaplain’s.  The Appreciation Luncheon was a “Thank-you” breakfast buffet.

By 2016, we maintained 5 Chapters with 714 members.

2016 ~ Lynda Jo Kinder was our first repeat WGM.  At Grand Visitations, the Grand Lecturer and Grand Secretary gave oral reports, the WGP, Jesse Villarreal gave history tidbits of the Grand Chapter and the WGM spoke on her memories.  The Grand Secretary, Dorothy Thornley, along with her daughter Sister Connie, now have the Grand Chapter up to date with the printing of all proceedings.  “Hats Off To Dorothy & Connie.”  At the Grand Ball, Grand Sunbeam, Frances Pate, had all the ladies up on their feet line dancing.  At the “70’s Show” a luncheon fundraiser, the highlight was Brother Neal and Brother Jim as the “Blues Brothers” serenading Sister Frances to “My Girl.”  This event raised $1,659 for the Operating Fund.

2017 ~ WGM Sister Nancy Gulley was also a repeat.  RWGS Gary Miller passed away in office and back to DC came Alma and Bill Bane as she was once again appointed RWGS pro tem.  The 1982’s “Christmas in July” turkey dinner was held at an Italian restaurant – Mama Stella’s!  The 2013 Association sponsored a bus trip to Montrose, Virginia for a crab feast.  We had an exchange visit with VA on Chincoteague Island which included a picnic at the home of their PGM Cleo Wiggins.  PGP Jack Campbell’s committee raised $20,000 for Regenerative Medicine.  Brother Jim Coleman did a committal service for PGP Brother Bob Proudley.  Sister Donna Williams made it to sessions just in time for installation.  She had taken a fall earlier and seriously injured her hip.

2018 ~ WGM Sister Donna Williams and WGP Brother Ron Wagner were both retreads and also from the same Chapter.  The triennial was held in Orlando, Florida.  We came back with five appointments and Alma Lynn Bane was officially back where she belonged as the RWG Secretary.  We did not have a Grand Ball, this year, however, we did have an elegant reception at C Street.  In August, 122 C Street was vandalized and robbed.  Delaware held a special “Table Chapter” written by their PGM Barbara Lott which was most informative and entertaining.  PGP Brother Jim Coleman was asked to officiate for a committal service for PGM Sister Jane Frances Grolig.

2019 ~ WGM Sister Marilyn Haroutunian & WGP Brother Fletcher Johnston are both serving as first timers.  They instituted several changes to the Grand Visitations which made for a nice flow.  They gave each Chapter a doghouse to decorate and to collect “F” and “G” dollars for their Special Projects.  Friendship Chapter sponsored a bus trip to Radio City Music Hall to see the Rockettes Christmas Show.  This really brought back fond memories of Sister Pauline Hammond’s yearly ESTARL trips!  Due to the corona virus, all Chapter, Grand Chapter and General Grand Chapter meetings and events were canceled from 03-15-2020 to 06-05-2021.

2020 ~ This marks our 125th year.  We are all sitting dormant at this time with our windows closed and doors shut.  The 2019 Grand Chapter Officers are wondering if they will ever get out of office as the covid restrictions are preventing any and all meetings and gatherings worldwide.

By 2021 we maintained 5 Chapters and 454 members.

The Next Chapter 2021-2046

2021 ~ It is now Saturday, June 5, 2021 and the sun is finally shinning from our Star in the East on WGM Sister Marilyn and WGP Brother Fletcher as Installation Day for the 2021 Grand Officers has finally arrived.  Sister Marie Johnston is installed as the 125th WGM and Brother Jim as her WGP, who is serving once again due to an overwhelming demand.  Our Session was held at Grand Chapter Headquarters with 50 District of Columbia members in attendance.  We had a snack with coffee in the morning, a boxed lunch and then a variety of ice cream cakes after the Installation.  It actually turned out to be a very nice event.  On Sunday, November 14th, we attended the “Grand Reception” to honor all of our Grand Chapter Officers and GGC Appointments.  On Thursday, November 18th, Friendship Chapter sponsored a trip to Sight & Sound to see “Queen Esther.”  On Sunday, December 5th, we celebrated the “125th Anniversary of the Grand Chapter.”  The “Forever Friends” association is up and running and going strong even with the lingering cloud of covid.

2022 ~ Despite a lot of covid and cancer treatments, Sister Beverly Gurner and Brother Robert Starr (PGM 2014) were ready to snow on the District of Columbia in their “Makin’ New Friends” Session.  Snowmen were everywhere!

2023 ~ “Smile for Peace” was the theme for this year.  WGM Patti Snell and WGP Commer Thornley (PGP 2001) had us eating so much food!  There was a Fish Fry with just picked corn on the cob; a Hamburger, Hot Dog and Sausage grilled luncheon with excellent baked beans; and a Wine and Cheese party with a whole lot more; and all were at the Thornleys.  And a lovely buffet luncheon honoring the Grand Family.

2024 ~ Our lights were shining in 2024 with WGM Vie Auber and WGP Larry von Weigel.  Sister Vie was very proud to be the first black Worthy Grand Matron and the room was overflowing at her installation.  Elect Chapter No.2 consolidated with Federal Chapter No.38 – now we are four.

2025 ~ We shall see what comes before us.

 This concludes the History of the Grand Chapter of the District of Columbia
Order of the Eastern Star 1896 ~ 2024
and as Bob Hope would say, “Thanks for The Memories!”
We await the 2025 year of Kindness.

Click here for our Past Grand Matrons and Past Grand Patrons