History of the Order of the Eastern Star – Golden Chapter

A History of the Order of the Eastern Star – Golden, BC

Submitted to 2000 Golden Memories – this information was current in 2000.

On April 16, 1921, an assembly of petitioners for a new chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star, to be known as Golden Chapter under dispensation, met in the I.O.O.F. Hall at seven o’clock and was called to order by Lewis E. Frith, Worthy Grand Patron of the Grand Chapter #16, Kamloops, having been deputized for the Institution. Mrs. Elizabeth L. Bentley was the first Worthy Matron of the Golden Chapter and Mr. George E. Sanborn was the first Worthy Patron. Laura Buckham was the secretary.

In the early years of the chapter, the main source of income was a whist drive and dance every year. In 1954, Sister Mary Thompson gave a clear report on starting a Cancer Dressing Station. Sister Bruce was appointed convenor and Sister Thompson co-convenor. This chapter continues to make cancer dressings which are sent to the O.E.S. Dressing Station in Vancouver. These are also available to local patients, free of charge.

In 1958, the O.E.S. held its first Flower Shoe and Bake Sale, the proceeds of which went to furnish the room in the hospital and to assist Cancer patients. The Flower Show became an annual event for many years.

The Golden Chapter #25 O.E.S. contributes each year to Cancer Research, and many charitable organizations in our community.