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Our meetings are on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of each month at 7:30 p.m., with the exceptions of July, August and September, when our chapter is at rest.

HISTORY OF THE ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR

The history of the Eastern Star is divided into three Eras: The First Era extended from 1850 to 1866, under the leadership of Dr. Rob Morris, Poet Laureate of Masonry.

The Second Era extended from 1860 to 1876, under the leadership of Robert Macoy of New York.

The Third Era extends from 1876, when the General Grand Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star, was established to the present time.

Of these eras, the first is perhaps the most important as it prepared the way for the other two. The real origin of the Eastern Star, like Masonry, will always be shrouded in mystery. Many researchers believe it had a French origin as early as 1703. By some, this is claimed to be the first inception of "Female Masonry" or "Androgynous Degrees" -- (degrees for both men and women).

There appeared at this time, to be a demand for "Side Degrees" or Degrees conferred on ladies, and quite a list sprang up --"Heroines of Jericho", "Danger in the Dark", "Tall Cedars of Lebanon", etc. These were extensively used but soon fell into decay, for lack of lasting worth.

As to the real origin of Eastern Star Degrees in its Initiatory form, there is not the least shadow of doubt that the honor belongs to Dr. Rob Morris and its real origin comes under the First Era. Dr. Morris had traveled many years. He had written many books on Masonry which are now valued references in many Masonic Libraries.

Never quite satisfied that all the good in Masonry should be confined to men, Dr. Morris felt that Masonry should be for the whole family. But by the laws of that Ancient Order, women are not eligible for its degrees. Knowing he could not change the Ancient Landmarks of Masonry, Dr. Morris sought some method by which women could share with the Masonic Brother the same inspiration that "prompts man to noble deeds."

Although he harbored these feelings for years, it wasn't until 1850, while confined to his home after an accident, that Dr. Morris fully developed the Eastern Star Degrees in their present initiatory form. During this time, he carefully thought out the symbolism and significance of the floor plan and the corps of officers. He conferred the degrees upon his wife and daughters, and some neighbors, presumably having an idea to clothe the ladies with certain words or signs whereby they might make themselves known to Master Masons.

These signs and so-called mysteries of the Order were communicated freely to all Master Masons and their relatives. Dr. Morris and other prominent Master Masons gave many lectures and conferred the degrees on many ladies throughout the nation.

Eastern Star members from around the world have visited our Chapter and we always love to have as many visitors to our chapter as possible.

This year, our chapter is actively involved in the support of many chairities in the community. One of the chairities is the Hibiscus Childrens Home, which is building a new children's shelter in Vero Beach. The Hibiscus Children's Home provides sheleter and care for abused, abandoned and neglected children of all ages. Currently, we are providing supportive services such as volunteering at the Hibiscus resale shop and making donations of clothing and household goods to be sold at the store. We are very excited about this worthwhile project!

OTHER CHAPTERS IN OUR DISTRICT

Sebastian Chapter #204

1715 North Central Avenue

Sebastian, Florida

Meets on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday at 7:30 p.m.