Famous Women of the Order of the Eastern Star: OES Notable Members

The Order of the Eastern Star is a fascinating and historic organization that holds a significant place in the realm of fraternal and fraternal-affiliated groups. Established in the mid-19th century, it has grown to become one of the largest fraternal organizations in the world, with chapters across the United States and in various countries internationally. Central to the organization's ethos is its commitment to fostering friendship, promoting charitable endeavors, and providing opportunities for personal growth and development among its members. At the heart of the Order of the Eastern Star are its famous members, individuals whose contributions have helped shape the organization and leave a lasting impact on society as a whole. 

One of the most notable members of the Order of the Eastern Star is Martha Custis Washington, the wife of George Washington, the first President of the United States. Martha Washington is often referred to as the "First Lady of the United States," a title that recognizes her influential role in American history. As a member of the Eastern Star, Martha Washington exemplified the values of the organization through her commitment to service, charity, and community engagement. Her involvement in the Order of the Eastern Star helped to raise awareness of the organization and its mission, inspiring countless others to join its ranks and contribute to its noble cause. 

Another famous member of the Order of the Eastern Star is Laura Ingalls Wilder, the beloved author of the "Little House" book series. Wilder's literary works, which are based on her own experiences growing up in the American Midwest during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, have captivated readers of all ages for generations. As a member of the Eastern Star, Wilder embodied the spirit of creativity, resilience, and determination that are central themes in her writings. Her involvement in the organization allowed her to connect with like-minded individuals who shared her passion for literature, education, and community service.

 In addition to Martha Washington and Laura Ingalls Wilder, the Order of the Eastern Star boasts a diverse array of famous members from various walks of life, including politics, entertainment, and business. One such individual is Eleanor Roosevelt, the wife of President Franklin D. Roosevelt and a prominent advocate for social justice and human rights. As a member of the Eastern Star, Eleanor Roosevelt worked tirelessly to promote the organization's values of equality, compassion, and inclusivity. Her leadership and dedication helped to advance the cause of women's rights and empower marginalized communities across the country.

Another notable member of the Order of the Eastern Star is Clara Barton, the pioneering nurse who founded the American Red Cross. Barton's humanitarian efforts during the American Civil War earned her widespread acclaim and recognition, and her legacy continues to inspire generations of nurses and aid workers around the world. As a member of the Eastern Star, Barton exemplified the organization's commitment to humanitarianism, volunteering her time and resources to support those in need and alleviate suffering wherever it may be found.

In the realm of entertainment, the Order of the Eastern Star counts several famous members among its ranks, including actress Shirley Temple, whose iconic performances captured the hearts of audiences worldwide during the 1930s and 1940s. Temple's involvement in the O.E.S. reflected her dedication to philanthropy and her desire to make a positive difference in the world. By leveraging her celebrity status, Temple helped to raise awareness of the organization and its charitable endeavors, inspiring others to get involved and support its mission.

In the world of business, the Order of the Eastern Star boasts several notable members, including Mary Kay Ash, the founder of Mary Kay Cosmetics. Ash's entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to empowering women have made her a legendary figure in the business world, and her legacy continues to inspire countless entrepreneurs and business leaders today. As a member of the Eastern Star, Ash utilized her platform to promote the organization's values of sisterhood, empowerment, and personal growth, leaving a lasting impact on both the business community and society as a whole.

Here are some other notable and powerful women that were, or are members of the Order of the Eastern Star:

Ruth Ann Minner was an American politician who served as the 72nd Governor of Delaware from 2001 to 2009. She was the first and only woman to hold the office of Governor in Delaware's history. Minner was known for her advocacy on issues such as education, healthcare, and the environment.

Dale Evans was an American actress, singer, and songwriter best known for her work in Western films and television. She was married to Roy Rogers, a famous cowboy actor, and together they appeared in numerous movies and TV shows. Evans was also a prolific author, penning over two dozen books, many of which focused on her Christian faith and personal experiences.

Rosa Parks was an African American civil rights activist known for her pivotal role in the Montgomery Bus Boycott. Parks famously refused to give up her seat to a white passenger on a segregated bus in Montgomery, Alabama, in 1955, sparking a wave of protests against racial segregation in the United States. She was often referred to as the "mother of the civil rights movement" for her courageous act of defiance and her lifelong commitment to fighting for racial equality.

Martha Griffiths was an American lawyer and politician who served in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1955 to 1974. She was a leading advocate for women's rights and played a key role in the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which outlawed discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. Griffiths was also instrumental in the passage of the Equal Rights Amendment, also known as the E.R.A. in the House of Representatives.

Maxine Waters is an American politician who has served as the U.S. Representative for California's 43rd congressional district since 1991. She is a prominent figure in the Democratic Party and has been an outspoken advocate for social justice, affordable housing, and economic empowerment. Waters has held various leadership positions in Congress, including Chair of the House Financial Services Committee.

Colleen Dewhurst was a Canadian-American actress known for her work on stage, screen, and television. She won two Tony Awards for her performances in "All the Way Home" and "Moon for the Misbegotten" and four Emmy Awards for her work in television. Dewhurst was also known for her role as Marilla Cuthbert in the miniseries "Anne of Green Gables."

These are just some examples of the famous members of the Order of the Eastern Star, individuals whose contributions have helped to shape the organization and leave a lasting legacy of service, charity, and community engagement. Whether through their leadership, creativity, or humanitarian efforts, these remarkable women have embodied the values of the Eastern Star and inspired countless others to follow in their footsteps. As the organization continues to evolve and grow, it will undoubtedly attract new members who share its commitment to making the world a better place for all.