Miriam Chapter 278 marks its 100th year

YOUNGSTOWN — Miriam Chapter 278, Order of Eastern Star, celebrated its 100th anniversary and had its Annual Inspection of Officers recently at the Youngstown Masonic Temple.

The theme for the year is Century of Stars.

Laurie Hernandez, worthy matron, and Russell W. Gillam Jr., worthy patron, officiated at the April 29 event. The evening began with dinner and was followed by the inspection of officers. Attending the festivities were 140 members.

Inspecting officers were Catherine Jones, worthy grand matron, and Richard Barrick, worthy grand patron. Susan Gillam, deputy grand matron of District 2, also served as associate matron. Job’s Daughters Bethel 35 served refreshments after the meeting.

Miriam Chapter was instituted in February 1908 and chartered in October of that year. The first worthy matron was Louisa Brenner, and worthy patron was Andrew Lawton.

The first annual meeting took place at Old Pioneer Pavilion in Mill Creek Park. In December 1910, meetings were first held at the Masonic Temple on Wick Avenue. Corem Chapter merged with Miriam Chapter in 1989, and Trias Chapter merged in 1996. Today, Miriam Chapter has 136 50-year members, and one member, Selma Kornhauser, has been a member for 86 years.