CARDINAL CHAPTER HISTORY
May W. Elliott (Founder) - W.M. in 1909; Conductress in 1910; Assoc. Matron in 1911; Secretary in 1907 & 1908, 1912 - 1939
1901 – 9 initiated @ $2.50 Fee; Dues $.75
On May 18, 1901, Fifteen members demitted from Violet Chapter #45 to start a new Chapter (the 5th in Cincinnati) with funds equaling $26.09. It was decided that meetings would be held at Sharonville's Old Town Hall (the home of Sharonville Masonic Lodge #204). The date of the stated meetings would be the "1st Saturday night after the full moon." Cardinal was always assisting the Lodge in many ways. At the May 30 meeting, a motion carried that we launder the white aprons for our brothers. August 3, a committee was formed to make a star for the floor and invite Acacia & Alba Chapters to our first inspection on August 31. The pedestals were donated by a member. Our first inspection was favorable. All bills, including Grand Chapter per capita bill was paid for a total of $8.18. September 28, a committee was appointed to draft resolutions of sympathy at the death of President McKinley & a copy sent to Mrs. McKinley which read:
"Resolutions of sympathy at the death of President McKinley, adopted 10/5/01, Whereas the late President Wm. McKinley, Chief Executive of the United States has been removed from our nation by death, it is resolved that by his death we have lost a valuable President & executive whose wise counsels, extensive information & courteous manner had won our esteem & admiration. Be it also resolved that the sympathy of this Chapter be conveyed to the widow of our late President, committing there, in this hour of her bereavement, to the kindly consolations of Him who doeth all things well."
10/09/01 - Charter received from Grand Chapter.
1902 – 10 initiated
In June, we purchased song books & priced organs. August 23, a committee formed to purchase lamps for labyrinth. August 30, a "CALL" meeting (special meeting) was held to initiate 10 candidates at one time.
1903
October 10, Janitor hired after cleaning list was created for Temple.
1904
October 1, we received our first request for a demit. October 29, Dishes donated to Chapter by demitting sister. November 26, Chapter pays Secretary for duty. December 22, Masonic brothers ask for $25.00/yr. rent on Temple. Elections were always in November & installations so far have been in December.
1905
May W. Elliott named Deputy Grand Matron & receives grand honors when introduced.
1906
May Elliott’s mother passes.
1907
May 4, 1st honorary member and December 21, Motion made to send unfinished quilt to Masonic home.
1908
March 21, Electa's silver cup given to us from honorary member, D.G.M., Kate Jackman. Secretary instructed to buy crown & scepter for Esther station (total cost = $5.95).
1909
October 30, Members question whether or not to continue with Cardinal. Averaging 8-10 people at meetings. It was voted to go another year.
1910
January 15, received an invitation to our first "friendship" night @ Alba Chapter on 2/8/10. We also received an invitation from Sycamore Chapter to join them for a social on 2/5/10 in their hall. February 26, voted to move meetings to 2pm to attract more members. June 24, offered to make lace curtains for the Temple. September 24, a new altar cloth was donated.
1911
April 5, Still only getting 10 members per meeting – Treasury = $9.94. September 9, sent a letter to a Chapter in Florida regarding one of our members. It read, "A sister was acting very indecent before she left here - she was okay while her husband was alive. If she is acting as a questionable character, we want to know.” Balance in Treasury = $6.44. December 9, Not enough money in our Treasury to pay the rent.
1912
October 26, Treasury is $2.42. May W. Elliott is serving as Worthy Grand Matron. All inspections are held in June. November 30, another vote was taken to continue on as a Chapter.
1913 - 38 Members; Initiation Fees $3.00; Special Dispensations $1.00
March 29, money given to 9 members amounting to $11.00 to help in their loss due to the disastrous floods. April 26, Picnic committee & O.E.S. Hospital Association formed. First mention of Sunshine committee. Each month, three new folks were put on committees. Sunshine committee sends flower to those that are ill. All committees consist of two sisters and one brother. June 21, Inspection: P.G.M., May W. Elliott, was escorted to the East and informed that a "Seat of Honor" in the East of Cardinal Chapter was hers for all time.
1914 - 54 Members; Dues $1.50
March 25, first Grand Inspection. Comments: "our ritualistic work is exemplified". WGM, Bessie Fargo Boice elected an honorary member. With 54 members strong, the Chapter meets year round. We had our annual picnic in "Shephard's Woods" (Sharon Woods). An instruction committee was formed & the 25th Grand Chapter session was held. August 1, there was always refreshments & "social" and/or entertainment after every meeting. Tonight was a Victrola concert. December 5, the Masonic Brothers raised our rent to $30.00 & we hosted a children's night for the families.
1915 - 56 Members
February 6, New ribbons purchased for officer’s badges. March 16, Motion carried for our altar & badges to be draped for 60 days on account of a sister’s death. May 1, first pro-tem initiation. Honorary members over the past year: Anna Bell, Bessie Fargo Boice, Minnie Washburn. Good of the Order Committee helped set up picnics, etc. - had a “Halloween Evening." At installations, May W. Elliott was usually the Installing Officer. The retiring Worthy Matron was usually appointed Marshal for the ensuing year.
1916 – Dues up to $1.50 & 63 Members
March 19, petitioned Grand Chapter to establish Winton Chapter. March 25, voted to adopt the “card” receipt for dues. June 14, Lantern slides used during initiation. November 16, $5.00 was paid to Secretary for her services. The hall was to be piped for gas. Pie contest after meeting. December 16, Joint roster for Hamilton County to be developed.
1917 – 68 Members
January 10, Bylaws amended to change meetings to 3rd Saturday after full moon. Petition to Grand Chapter to establish Daylight Chapter. Birthday fund started. Taffy pulling after meeting. May 28, Signet rack made & given to the Chapter.
1918 – 73 Members
We presented a service flag to the Lodge & hung it in the East. We worked with the Red Cross to form a unit. Formed a committee to greet visitors at inspection. June 15, Music committee purchased a piano. The down-payment for the piano came from the birthday fund. August 10, Purchase sword for Adah’s station. November 12, State of Ohio placed a ban on all public meetings on account of the flu.
1919
March 1, Paid $10 for ten shares of stock in the O.E.S. Home. The 30th Annual Grand Chapter session was held at Music Hall in Cincinnati.
1920
Petitioned Grand Chapter to establish Avon Noon Chapter & on December 20, petitioned to establish Hyde Park Matiner. April 6, Worst snowstorm of season - inspection was still carried out with 20 visitors & 38 members. Poem dedicated to Cardinal Chapter by visiting Grand Sentinel, W.S. Andres:
C heerfully bright as th’ STARS that shine,
A nd twinkle your glories and thought,
R endering the darkness sweetly sublime,
D oing th’ right with heavenly might,
I mplanting th’ TRUTH, destroying the lie,
N oting all good – LIFE and LOVE understood,
A dvancing to CROSS, GOD’s symbolic tie,
L iving and loving for th’ DIVINE “Bye and Bye”.
1921 – 79 Members
All Chapters in the District decided to have a picnic at Carthage Fairgrounds. An O.E.S. Sunshine Circle established for the 20th District.
1922 – 87 Members
February 25, petitioned Grand Chapter to establish College Hill Daylight Chapter. April 29, $3.65 was deducted from Chapter for material for an O.E.S. autograph quilt (this is hanging in our Lobby today). December 23, Rent increased to $35.00.
1923 – 87 Members; Dues $2.00; Initiation Fee $10.00; Affiliation $2.00
May 19, purchased a “Play O Lite" for the piano. June 16, Paid half of new lodge carpet. August 27, Entire District met to organize an Aid Society for the O.E.S. Home. November 10, Petitioned Grand Chapter to establish Cincinnati Chapter. December 20, “Santa” stopped by to visit & give everyone a bag of peanuts.
1924
July 21, purchased a new floor cloth for Labyrinth & electric lamp for Secretary.
1925 - 99 Members
Inspection brought 50 members & 88 visitors from 22 Chapters. October 17, Motion carried to convert birthday fund to Masonic Building Fund
1926
February 13, Petitioned Grand Chapter to establish Hanselmann Chapter. April 17, purchased new ballot box (also suppose to have a new veil for Adah). A Silver Anniversary Fund was established to purchase silverware for the Temple (8 doz. Teaspoons, 4 doz. Forks). May W. Elliott was given the name, “Mother of Cardinal Chapter”. October 9, invited to lay the cornerstone of the Masonic Temple downtown (Cincinnati Masonic Center today) & the cornerstone to Deaconess Hospital.
1927 - Members 117 (14 new - 1 demit)
March 25, Motion carried that a special dispensation be secured to hold our inspections in the new school auditorium. Proceeds of the bake sale would buy a new flag. May 5, Inspection: we were honored by having “The Traveling Bible” upon the altar. This inspection stands out not alone for this honor but also for the fact that it was held in our New School Auditorium; the first of such an event to be held within its walls. 65 visitors, 73 members. We bought ferns and plants to decorate the auditorium. July 30, W.G.M., Ella Vornheder, elected as an honorary member. August 27, a paper was started called the “Chapter News”. November 26, Conductress read the 23rd Psalm when the Charter was draped. Secretary fees increased to $25.00 from $15.00. Committee formed to complete scenery for School Auditorium. Good of the Order committee formed to raise money for our Chapter.
1928 - Members 124 (7 new)
February 25, Petitioned Grand Chapter to establish Martha Chapter. November 17, Purchased new crown & sheaf. Pay $10.00 to rent school auditorium.
1929 - Members 125 (6 new)
April 13, Presented with emblematic star for the East (still hangs there today).
1930 - Members 135 (9 new)
February 1, Ritual Changed. March 1, Purchased an address-a-graph for Secretary & 5 more shares of the OES Home & Hospital. March 29, Purchase cords for jewels & electric light globes. September 24, Altar bible donated. October 25, New chairs, new floor cloth & 45 folding chairs for new hall. Moving to new Masonic Hall on Maple Street. December 8, Baskets containing appropriate colored flowers lighted by electric bulbs were part of the ceremony. Member, Ethel Keteleer, graduates from the Good Samaritan School of Nursing.
1931 - Members 138 (3 new)
January 24, Meeting night changed to 4th Saturday of each month. February 21, Meeting night changed to 1st Saturday of each month. March 27, Inspection: 167 visitors & 70 members. April 2, Committee to sponsor Rainbow Girls formed. Petitioned Grand Chapter to establish Mariemont Chapter. June 6, WGM, Grace Sheffield, elected as an honorary member. September 15, Life membership granted to Thomas Birthisel. November 7, Motion made for janitor to purchase 4 tons of coal for Temple.
1932 - Members 140
January 2, Rainbow Girls granted permission to care for young children of Star Members while parents in meeting. February 6, Chapter purchased 5 doz. folding chairs ($69.04 from Acme Chair Co. - Reading, MI) with stenciling #140 & a mirror for piano. Bake Sale made $17.80. Sandwiches/coffee served after meeting & a merry slap-stick party was enjoyed by all. March 5, Afternoon meetings w/lunch & games afterwards. April 2, Demit fee is $2.00. April 23, Performed initiation with loaned signet. New members receive pins after initiation. May 7, Society of Past Matrons announced an outing at Coney Island in June. PGP, Thomas Bell, elected as an honorary member. June 29, Initiated our first Rainbow Girl. Our choir sang. July 2, We used to entertain at the Home of the Incurables. Gave Lodge $100.00 to help pay taxes. October 1, Voted to pay Associate Matron’s attendance at Grand Chapter to same mileage & per diem allowed by the Grand Chapter to the Worthy Matron. Good of the Order committee to start providing dinners for the Chapter. Brothers received cigars from the “Star Masons” upon their initiation. Used to have Christmas parties, card parties, etc.
1933 - Members 153
February 4, May W. Elliott granted Life Membership. Good Cheer committee changed name to Cheerio committee. Hosted a chicken dinner before the inspection - Cost $.75/person. Purchased a new sweeper and more coal to be purchased by the Janitor. April 1, Motion carried to send cards instead of flowers to those that are ill. With the Depression happening in the Country, it was rescinded to pay for the Associate Matron’s trip to Grand Chapter and to change the Past Patron’s jewel to be the original $3.50 not $10.00. July 1, Four members in arrears. May Elliott, Secretary asked that her salary to the amount of delinquency be applied to these members dues ($8.00). Total cash on hand: $359.38. Retiring W.M. received silver knives & forks. Most all of the outgoing Worthy Matrons received silverware. August 5, Funds are becoming very low - motion made to have Card Party (which made $40.25). November, Aid Society served 129 dinners for $1,200.00. Secretary salary was raised to $17.00 which May Elliott turned back into the Chapter as a donation. Dues are still $2.00
1934 - Members 153
January 6, They wore shell pink robes at Installation in December. They had a fish fry which netted $4.16 and the dishes are missing. February 3, Letter received from W.G.M. contributing $1.00 per member toward the building of the Temple in Washington, D.C. (International Temple). Doughnuts & cocoa were served after the meeting. May 5, Society of Past Masters invited us to the annual outing at Coney Island. We bought the paint to complete the work in the basement. Due to the strained conditions at the present time, further time was given to pay dues. Stewards prepared the refreshments. May 19, Anniversary Night: 75 Members & 101 visitors present. The officers gave the Worthy Matron a star ring. Dinner was held before the meeting & the Worthy Matron gave May Elliott bookends. June 2, Motion passed: “all initiated prior to 8/31 shall pay per capital tax in addition to regular fee. Those initiated after 8/31 shall be exempt from dues until 11/1 when all dues are payable in advance." Monthly Gas & Electric bills were $3.70. Past Matron’s Jewel was $14.50. August 4, Rainbow Girls disbanded. Chapter was asked to become custodian of their paraphernalia. Total funds: $107.97. More Life Members named besides Thomas Birthisel & May Elliott: Mary Mostellar & Lydia B. Crawford. Honorary Members: Mrs. Annie Bell, Mr. Thomas Bell, Mrs. Bessie Boice, Mrs. Alice Ross, Mrs. Grace Sheffield, Ms. Ella Vornheder, Ms. Minnie Washburn. We are still providing entertainment at the Home of the Incurables. October 6, Memorial after Chapter for all departed brothers & sisters. Quartet sung; Brother Emmit Kitchen, Sharonville’s Worshipful Master spoke. There was also a Temple Club. December 1, Old time dances were indulged in after the meeting. Used to sing “Happy Birthday” in Chapter.
1935 - Members 161
February 2, Old fashioned dance to be given by the Masonic Temple Club with Cardinal’s support. March 2, Gas & Electric goes up to $5.95. Grand Chapter sent letter asking for per capita tax to be sent in early to help defray the cost of entertainment at Grand Chapter. Our treasury is $229.50. April 24, Deputy Grand Matron’s were presented at the altar when on official business. Associate Matron’s and Associate Patron’s were recognized during presentations. June 1, Petition for dispensation to establish Unity Chapter to be held in Grotto Temple. October 5, Committees appointed to finish the tables & purchase new ones with benches instead of chairs. Also want to check into the price of redecorating the walls of the Temple & procure arms for the Star Point chairs. Grand Chaplain was visiting (she was at all of the Chapters in the District this year). November 2, Estimate submitted to paint interior walls & ceiling (2 coats) $54.00. Two Ante Rooms & entrance to basement stairs $50.00. Motion carried to paint inside Chapter room - outside to be done later. Secretary’s salary raised to $25.00. Rosters cost $1.37. Coal has become our most expensive expenditure. December 7, Card Parties had been bringing in ~ $180/year but they have been banned to be held at the Temple from Grand Chapter. We donated $550.00 to the Aid Society. The Hospital Circle made several visitations & phone calls.
1936
January 4, It was noted that the chair manufacturer said the chairs were too small to put arms on them. February 1, Letter from Lodge thanking us for painting Chapter. We purchased a coffee dripolator for $4.50. To comply with the new law, a motion was made to buy a vendor’s license for the refreshment committee. Janitor was fired because Good of the Order committee is doing a better job. The Janitor was never around to start the coal stove, never cleaned the restrooms, etc. March 7, First time a Petition is rejected. Cheerio Committee now visiting those on sick list. A motion was made to present candidates with a white bible ($.88) at initiation in addition to the usual flowers. April 6, Deputy Grand Matron’s expense for inspection: $3.00. Sharonville Lodge was instituted on 7/2/1851 - we asked the lodge to join us in a birthday party for our organizations. It’s to be a social affair with a covered dish supper. June 6, May W. Elliott to purchase new register & John Price to get a rubber mat for the door leading into the grill room. July 4, Another petition rejected. August 30, Summer picnic with Sharonville Lodge in Sharon Woods - 113 in attendance. August 1, Reverent remembrance - Names all deaths & has a poem:
“They are out of the chaos of living,
The wreck & debris of the years;
They have passed from the struggle and striving,
They have finished their goblet of tears,
They have ceased hour by hour, from their labors,
So we clothed them in garments of rest,
And they entered the Chamber of Silence:
God do for them now what is best”
1937
February 6, Jennie Sanger appointed Grand Representative of North Dakota. Aid Society usually served 105 meals. Penny march was started each month to raise money for the refreshment committee. Money is tight with the depression and the floods. First penny march raised $3.83. June 5, First mention of a District Dinner to be held in September at the Netherland Plaza Hotel (downtown) to honor the W.G.M. June 10, W.P., John Price performed the initiation of his daughter and brother-in-law while his wife, Gwen Price was Conductress. John & Gwen's 20th wedding anniversary - officers gave them a coffee table. July 3, Mirror put in ladies’ room by one of the brothers - donation. August 7, White bibles are now $1.00. We received $15.25 from the sale of our pedestals & pillowcases. September 4, Per capita tax paid was $40.50. October 12, We received the Traveling Gavel this month. This is where each chapter travels to another Chapter to perform the initiatory work. Usually always some kind of visitor in the audience at our Chapter (ie, Ft. Thomas, Mason, etc.). November 6, Biggest expense $92.50 for Janitor. Celebrated May Elliott’s 25th Anniversary since being W.G.M. The Chapter gave her a bath robe.
Written for the passing of a sister:
“The clock of life is wound but once
And no man has the power
To tell just when the hands will stop
At late or early hour
Now is the only time you own
Live, love and toil with a will
Place no faith in tomorrow for
the hands may then be still”
1938 - 161 Members
February 5, The Good of the Order Committee cleared $30.00 on a father/son banquet. Chapter purchased 3 doz. forks & 1 doz. tablespoons. March 5, Sycamore Chapter informed us they were moving to the Masonic Lodge on Cooper Road. April 2, Bessie Sharp extended hearty greetings for not missing a meeting in 6 years. May Elliott given Honorary Membership to Wyoming Chapter during our friendship night with them. Motion carried to buy 2 coffee pourers & 3 pans for the kitchen. April 23, 18 Past Matrons present @ Inspection. “Another memorable inspection in the history of the Chapter." May 7, Approved the material to build table for the stewards in the kitchen ($6.37). August 6, Mock initiations are what pro-tem initiations were called. August 17, Pedestal baskets were used & remade. White bibles were given as gifts. Good of the Order Committee made $140.04 during the year. October 1, After the meeting, all retired to the grillroom where the “Inner Man” was not forgotten & dancing was indulged by all and another Red Letter evening was added to Cardinal Chapter’s record. November 5, Electric Signet bought for $125.00. Grand Chapter Per Capita $42.75. Choir used the Rainbow Girls robes. December 3, Going to meet with Lodge to build a cabinet in the anteroom for all Chapter paraphernalia. Usually has a visitor or 2 at our meetings. December 12, Installation - the choir marched in by candlelight to their anthem (Come All Ye Faithful). OES Hospital Circle was appointed just like the Trustees 1-2-3 year terms.
1939
March 4, Honorary Membership given to W.G.M., Mary Wollerman. Motion made to buy cabinet for Secretary books, etc. April 23, Our W.M. was requested to use the “golden gavel” of our Worthy Grand Matron while she was inspecting our chapter. At this grand inspection there were 45 Chapters represented by 200 visitors and 82 members. Visitors came from Mason, Lebanon, Bellaire, Pittsburgh, PA; Ft. Thomas, KY; and Melrose & Greensburg, IN. Dinner was afterwards at the Methodist Church. May 6, with the price of flowers on the rise, motion was made to start sending cards to those ill. June 3, Recommendation made to suspend meetings in July & August and to change the meeting night to the 1st Thursday of each month was rejected. September 9, May Elliott missed first meeting in 27 years (6/1/39) due to illness. She is still ill to date. October 7, Filing cabinet placed near Secretary desk obtained by Cabinet Committee. November 4, Motion passed to up the Secretary Fees to $35.00 and $10.00 to Treasurer. Although Cardinal had to dismiss May Elliott from her secretarial duties, we honored her as Secretary Emeritus. (Frank Wilson was May’s brother). May Elliott gave the farewell that evening.
1940
March 2, May Elliott presented the Chapter with 2 shares of stock in the Hamilton County OES Home. Mabel Erhardt named Hamilton County OES Home Representative. Moved and seconded to buy 10 new chairs for the officers. May 4, Shrubbery planted around Temple. Thanks received from the Lodge. $156.86 in Treasury. June 1, Gas & Electric raised to $5.70. Waivers of Jurisdiction was big and if you lived in another part of the city besides Sharonville and wanted to petition Cardinal - you had to ask for a waiver from the Chapter in your city. July 6, Annual Lodge/OES Picnic was held. Ice Cream was $19.20; Cream & Coffee was $1.47; Stamps & Envelopes were $3.33; Lemons & Sugars were $3.90 TOTAL: $27.90. Lodge is to pay half. November 2, Voted to start Savings Account - $50.00 donated to start it.
1941 – 162 Members
February 6, Entertainment for the evening was slide show of vacations and trips to Florida by members. March 1, Surprise visit by Grand Patron of Ohio, Brother Hugh Nichols. He wanted to come now besides Inspection so he could see Cardinal’s officers. They’re outstanding as well as “Cardinal’s Eats” are still the best in the District as everyone knows. March 29, First inspection missed by May Elliott in 40 years. It was mentioned that she has been Cardinal’s leading light by keeping the Chapter going and now its up to us to keep it shining brightly for her. Silent word of prayer was given. Rose-colored dresses were worn this year. April 5, Neighbor Nite - special guests from Ft. Thomas Chapter. The men performed a skit called “The Sister’s Masonic Lodge” and each brother (13 in all) were dressed accordingly. They showed how a female lodge was operated. It was fun by all. After the play, all retired to the grillroom for feast. Ft. Thomas was tickled pink by the friendship extended by Cardinal. After dinner, the tables were pushed back and dancing was then in order. At the stroke of twelve, the pianist played “Home Sweet Home”, breaking up the delightful evening not soon forgotten by Ft. Thomas. June 7, Celebrated our 40th Anniversary in which May Elliott was able to attend. Dinner was at 6:30p.m. with covered dish with Chapter furnishing the meat, coffee, and cream. The tables were decorated with flowers & souvenirs carrying the color of red. After dinner, we retired to the Chapter Room, where we held our regular meeting, after which the ladies from Washington Chapter (Hamilton) put on the initiatory work as in 1870. Old costumes and old ways of gathering the emblems and the lectures at the points were indeed interesting. Past Matron’s donated the Anniversary Cake.
Poem for Cardinal by Edna Beins
“Congratulations to Cardinal Chapter, O.E.S. on her 40th Anniversary”
Long ago, just forty years,
To Sharonville, Cardinal came.
It was the fifth chapter instituted here
And thus she received her name.
We are happy to have with us this day
The organizer of Cardinal, our own dear May.
It’s been a task but a sport of her to come,
But we know she cares, and wants to see things well done.
Here is our anniversary program –
“Enjoyed it, “ we hope to hear you say,
The entertainment committee has done its best,
And has planned it just this way.
First, there will be a dinner at six.
Everything good to eat the ladies will fix.
All will fill their plates and take a seat
And have a jolly good time as they talk and eat.
There will also be a birthday table;
Beautifully trimmed it will be.
June weddings seem to be its label
For brides and grooms you will see.
The verse and birthday cake were made by Edna.
Verlie and Jennie made the favors so nice.
So you who have birthdays in June
Will be honored at this table to-night.
When all are through eating,
From your neighbors you must not part,
For the ladies will clear the tables
And a short program will start.
First, there will be an old time song by Linnie,
Then dances by Doris, Mary Catherine, and Jimmie.
“Long, Long, Ago,” will be played by Jack on his cornet,
And then little Wayne Lindsey will do his part, you bet.
There will be a little sketch
On which Charlie wants a wife.
After Linnie, Mary, Edna and Jennie have called,
He decided no one should share his life.
We will then adjourn to the Chapter room
To hold the regular meeting,
This will be short and won’t take much time
For we are anxious for the next in line.
The Past Matrons of Washington Chapter are here, you know,
To exemplify the initiation of long, long, ago,
It is very sweet of them to come
And we know the work will be well done.
We thank these ladies who have come quite far
To help make things go right,
And we hope to meet quite often
Out of friendships made to-night.
We will then go back to where we started
And again we will dine,
For downstairs in that basement
An anniversary cake and punch you will find.
This ends our lovely evening
And as we go out the door,
Again we congratulate Cardinal on her birthday
And wish her many, many more.
HI-LITES OF CARDINAL CHAPTER 40 Years - written by Keziah Gallaher
“Backward turn backward, oh time in your flight, Renew our vision of forty years ago tonight.”
Yes, I can see the happy & anxious faces of Tommy & Flo Birthisel, Firm & Mollie Mosteller, Ed & Lulu Linkmeyer, Bird & Libby Townsend, Harry & Minnie Bender, Dr. & Alice Smith, Lulu Sotcher, Frank Wilson & May Elliott: -
“Just fifteen of us to start something new in our town,
With never a thought of failing or going down.”
From fifteen members to 162 in forty years is a record of which we are proud,
through hardships and trials to much success and joy we have shouted through the 20th District aloud.”
Brother Frank Wilson of Sharonville Lodge F. & A.M. #204 was sent to the Grand Lodge as representative & at this meeting, much discussion arose as to the Masons having a sister lodge; loud & long were the pros & con, such raising the curiosity of Brother Frank. Arriving home from Grand Lodge, he involved Sis to look into the Order of the Eastern Stars. At this time there were only two Chapters, Violet & Golden Rod. A lady came to see May from Golden Rod, but as May & Frank’s Grandfather belonged to Yeatman Lodge, they decided to join Violet, the sister Chapter to Yeatman Lodge – this was March 2, 1899. May was appointed Martha at the next meeting, they having two meetings per month.
At this time Sharon was very stylish & had unusual accommodations, namely a midnight train. On this train rode theatergoers, etc. So May & Frank came home on this train when both visited the Chapter, but most of the time May stayed with her aunt who lived near the O.E.S. They enjoyed the fellowship of Violet for 3 years & then decided to start an O.E.S. Lodge in Sharon.
Paraphernalia was the first thought. So the original 15 people gathered together & made the labyrinth, our first; Firm Mosteller made the Pedestals & also our broken column, which we still use. The first star lights were candles.
With 15 people & paraphernalia, the day was set for May 18, 1901. Violet members & officers, who had to stay at the different homes, came out & put on the work, with Past Grand Matron, Kate Jackman’s husband (Will) instituting our Chapter. They installed May Elliott as Matron, Ed Linkmeyer as Patron, Assoc. Matron - Alice Smith, Conductress - Lu Linkmeyer, AC - Mollie Mosteller, Secretary - H.H. Smith, Treasurer - H. Bender, Adah - Minnie Bender, Ruth - Flo Birthisel, Esther - Elizabeth Townsend, Martha - Lu Sotcher, Electa - Mary Mosteller, Chaplain - Frank Wilson, Warder - W.B. Townsend, Sentinel - Tom Birthisel. They had neither Organist or Marshall.
Emma Simms was Deputy Grand Matron in year 1901 and as our inspecting Officer I quote: -“Cardinal (U.D.) meaning Under Dispensation. Saturday, August 31st., I journeyed to the quaint little village of Sharonville (where, by the way, the Masonic Lodge has recently celebrated its 50th anniversary) to take look at the infant of the Grand Chapter, Cardinal U.D. This baby is truly a prodigy. It has passed the creeping, foddling period and already walks erect, talks fluently and hopes in a few weeks to vote at the Grand Chapter meeting. The work under the direction of W.M. Sister May Elliott has reached a degree of perfection seldom surpassed and often times not equaled by older chapters. Sister May Elliott was a pillar of strength in Violet Chapter of Cincinnati, and her active spirit and magnetic influence has been early felt in the lovely New Rose of Sharon. The officers did admirably, allowing, of course for a natural timidity in the presence of a large number of visitors. Several of the points were absent requiring substitutes, but the initiation was splendidly done. I take great pleasure in recommending the granting of a Charter to Cardinal and believe it will be one of the bright stars of this Grand Jurisdiction. They meet at Masonic Hall, pay no rent, delicious refreshments were served at the close.” No wonder Cardinal still serves good eats!
Second Inspection – May 24, 1902. Deputy Grand Matron, Lenora Wenner, Grand Matron, Kate Kile. I quote: -“Sharon is about one hour’s ride by rail from Cincinnati and I think lies in one of the prettiest valleys of Ohio. I had the pleasure of having the company of Sister May Elliott, and was entertained at her home. We went to the Chapter room quite early enabling me to become very well acquainted with the members. They were to have had a candidate, but were disappointed in some way, and so had a mock initiation.”
Officers and Paraphernalia ready, the next thought in mind was what to call the new Chapter. Sister Kate Jackman wanted to fill out the Star Points, and wished she might call it Rose Chapter; but there being another by that name up state, could not do so.
Violet – the blue ray; Golden Rod – the yellow ray; Alba – the white ray; Acacia – the green ray and finally Cardinal – the red ray, which is our Chapter, meaning Love One Another.
On August 23, 1902, the largest class that Cardinal ever had was initiated; ten new members were taken in making Cardinal’s membership 35 in number. The organ was purchased at this time.
Third Inspection – May 16, 1903. I quote: - “A small party boarded the train to visit Cardinal. We had supper at the hotel and afterwards conducted to the Masonic Hall where we found a happy family of Stars awaiting us. The Secretary also presided at the Organ. In the absence of a candidate, a sister kindly acted as substitute and was taken thru the degrees of the order. To make the signs and passes more effective, the Deputy requested Sister Jackman to recite the Eastern Star Poem, the members giving the signs and passes perfectly. This Chapter enjoys perfect peace and harmony. At the conclusion of ceremonies, refreshments were served. Inspection work over, the train not leaving until late next day, the social feature was resumed. Guests were invited to Brother Linkmeyers, also calls were made on four officers. After dinner we were driven over to Glendale, through the beautiful Millcreek Valley, where the eye was greeted with vast fields of wheat, making it a superb drive. We consider this trip to Cardinal Chapter one of the happiest in our tour of inspection.”
When Cardinal was first organized, the Officers always wore white with sashes of the color appropriate to their station. Then white with all colors of our star in narrow ribbons. Later colored flowers on the shoulder, and now, just our badge of Office.
Sister May was Worthy Matron for the first 3 years. Then the members began to gain courage and take more interest. These O.E.S. pioneers had lots of courage, going through lots of hardships and also lots of joy and good times; but it seems there was always someone willing and ready to carry on the good work, for up to 1941, 33 sisters served as Worthy Matron and 20 brothers served as Worthy Patron.
Many an argument during these years, but they always turned out alright. Many a time hardly enough members to fill the stations and sometimes, Charles Sanger has told us, it would be mostly a family affair, but somehow the chapter kept on growing and now is just as fine as any in the State of Ohio. We might not have as big a treasury or as many members as some chapters, but we have good fellowship, love and loyalty to each other.
Several honors have come to us. May as W.G.M. in 1912. 2 Grand Reps, Jennie Sanger and Edythe McGrew Gaskill. We were also honored to have the Traveling Bible on our Altar in Sister King’s year, 1927. This bible has crossed the U.S., been in Mexico, Alaska, Philippine Islands, Canal Zone, Hawaii and Cuba, crossed two oceans and the Caribbean Sea. It has been in the largest chapter in the world, Ivy Leaf #75 in Wichita, KS. Sister Clara Henrich, Most W.G.M. took this Bible to China, where she instituted three new chapters, and while there, contracted a terribly contagious disease from which she passed to the great beyond. Cardinal Chapter was among the first to have the “Traveling Bible” when it reached the U.S. again. In China, in 1925 and back here again in 1927, and it is still going from place to place.
Instead of having a janitor, the W.M. used to pick out 3 people each month, place the bulletin on the wall and so the Hall was thus cleaned. One time the ladies decided to clean the carpet, which had been down for years, but when the tacks were taken out, it came up in pieces, so a new carpet was purchased, the same that is used in the anterooms. At the Inspections before the new carpet episode, The W.M. and officers would have to put down big strips of white muslin to cover up the many holes and dirty carpet.
From 1901 to 1930, Cardinal lived in the Town Hall as their old home. IN 1930, Sister Springer’s year, we moved into our new home, with lots of joy of moving into bigger and better headquarters, but with sorrow of leaving the old homestead where lots of friendships had originated, as sister May expressed herself at this time. It is a new temple and that is all, it isn’t Home and it will not be home until we have had sorrow and lots of joys. The first sorrow was, that the Temple had burdened our brother Masons quite a lot, so with our shoulders to the wheel, we purchased the chairs, carpet and donated quite a lot of money. The Past Matrons did their share, helping fix the grill; buying dishes and the place to wash them (sink), pans, towels and aprons, tables and the curtain and scenery for the stage.
274 members have signed the by-laws in 40 years. 112 have demitted, died or been suspended during these years, leaving 162 members tonight.
Just two of our chartered members are left, Tom Birthisel and May Elliott. These 2 faithful members deserve much praise and comment upon our beautiful Chapter and its work. To think they did not get discouraged and always saying, “Go Forward”. So may we continue through the coming years to keep this Temple and the Lessons our Star teaches us for our children and their children’s children; and as they look back on our minutes for the past records for such a night as this may the minutes and records show that we as Eastern Stars are worthy of our offices and worthy to be members.
So with much respect and reverence for those that have traveled before us, love, good will and willingness to help the present, and to the future – the Motto – “Go Forward” with the teaching of our Beautiful Star, we bid all a farewell to the close of our history of Cardinal from 1901 – 1941.
November 1, Moved that the Trustees see about insuring the OES property within the Temple. Yearly expenses are $600.38. Notice received that the Hamilton County OES Home & Hospital is being changed to just the Hamilton County OES Home - applicants must be at least 65 years of age. Admission fee is $1,000. December 15, Officers in "Alice Blue" gowns with gold trim. Our Matron was installed by her father, Bro. Edward Marts & her mother was installing Chaplain, Grace Marts. Her husband is Dr. Ferris Beekley. Her grandmother is Elizabeth Shaffer. The Chapter paused to pray for our nation and not to forsake God, be prepared for the worst and take what comes with a smile.
1942 – 172 Members
February 7, Special communication from the W.G.M. asking each Chapter to make a contribution to the Red Cross, also to buy Defense Bonds. Motion carried to buy $74.00 Defense Bond ~ at maturity ~ $100.00. March 7, 54 members present. Moved to see if the Lodge would keep our defense bond in their safety deposit box. Washington Chapter invited us to be their guests for entertainment. March 28, Inspection usually have 2-5 Grand Officers always present. Cardinal received an "Excellent & remarks that we had held up the Grand Traditions of the Order." June 6, OES Home hosting a July festival. July 4, 21 present even though this is a holiday. September 5, Retired to the grille room and performed several vaudeville acts for our guests. October 3, Rededication night. W.G.M. appointed Lillian McGrew as Grand Representative to Arkansas. The A.C. led the members on the North and the Cond. led the members on the South forming two semi-circles in the West and gave the obligation. The W.P. assumed his position at the altar. With lights lowered and all present renewing their faith in God and Man, seemed to draw us closer and dearer to each other. Had all of the parents of "service" men and women stand. 49 servicemen and women recognized. Sheaf of Wheat symbol was presented to the Chapter from Gordon Hawkins (her son) and Louella Hawkins in memory of Neva Hawkins. Cake had gavel shaped candles on it. November, All Past Matrons & Patrons signed our Holy Bible. Short recess during installation to sign bible by Jr. Past Matron & Patron. We dedicated a page in our minutes to all of the husbands, sons and daughters of our members and even some of our own members who joined the armed forces to defend our country - 54 in all. December 5, The officer's circle gave Cardinal a war bond of $25.00. Approved motion to begin pro-rating the dues because of the Grand Chapter per capita tax. Offering blood to a blood bank for a fund raiser. December 15, Jr. P.M. & Jr. P.P. used to sign the bible at Installation during the recess. The outgoing W.M. referred to her year as the sun traveling:
"My installation - the sunrise, My inspection - High noon, Our Friendship Nites - Afternoon
Thoughts & now tonight - The Sunset"
A court was formed by the officers as the W.M. retired and a basket of flowers and many memory cards were given. This year's dresses were white gowns with gold accessories. The Deputy left a pleasant thought with everyone, "There will be many dark days ahead of us, on account of the World War, but try to make these dark days glad by our smiles, as we enter the Chapter room to meet our beloved friends." A flower addenda was given to the W.M. by the Star Points.
1943 – 177 Members
February 6, Good Cheer was going to have a “valentine shower” for May Elliott. Gwen Price gave a new crown and scepter to the Esther point (in memory of her mother) and a new veil was given to Adah by the W.M. & WP. March 10, Grand Inspection. The Marshal used to enter the chapter room with the AP, WP and AC. Grand representatives and Grand officers used to be presented at the altar. There were 122 visitors and 68 members present = 190 total. The W.G.M. put us on the “honor roll” for starting on time and we were given another “excellent” for our work. The W.G.M.’s address to us: “Cardinal Chapter is Queen Esther’s Chapter." She gave the history of Esther’s life of how loyal she was to her people and how we need so much loyalty today to others, ourselves, home, church and God from whom comes all good. We need Eastern Stars, but we need better Eastern Stars to carry out the lessons of our points. To remember the beautiful lesson of Queen Esther. April 3, We made $57.51 by selling brooms for the blind. The W.M. inspection gift was a coffee table. After chapter, those with March birthdays were the entertainment with this song:
“Come out to Chapter and join the bunch,
and boost with all your might
Forget your biz, whate’er it is,
and things that don’t go right.
Forget your care, remember there’s,
a world outside your own
To give you: remember that you can’t get glad alone”
May 1, By orders of instruction received from the 77th Congress, the salute to our flag should be rendered by standing with the right hand over the heart, holding this position until the end of the pledge of allegiance. Sister Gwen Price became a grandma (girl). June 5, Our brothers put on a play called “The Womanless Wedding” after meeting. August 7, The landmarks were read. Total treasury $713.98. Meetings always started around 8:20p.m. September 4, Each chapter used to be asked for donations to help defer costs of District Dinner. Grand Chapter to be two days instead of 3. November 6, Virginia Shewalter’s dues paid by the Chapter for the 2nd year in a row as she is a W.A.A.C. in England. Janitor asked for a raise. We collected sales tax stamps to make money ($14.70). December 8, Had to have a motion voted on by the Chapter to have a Grand Inspection. Installation, admist a lovely setting of palms, white mums and red carnations and red & white candles in the candelabras. Another court formed again for the outgoing WM. Red dresses and red carnations in the lapels of the gents. A floral addenda to the star points was made by giving them a “hanky” rose in the color of their station. Quote from May Elliott:
“Like a rose, a new year opens
days unfolding, one by one;
and we cannot know its contents,
‘til the last day has been done.
But we do know through our actions
we can help it in a way
&nb