Fun Facts

 

In the early years of the Chapter, road conditions prevented some of the regular meetings.  Attendance at times was small and some members arrived late, having to be pulled from the mud.

 

Some of the most popular fund raising projects were card parties, which were held by the dozen, for fun and profit and lawn parties filled the spring, summer and fall days.  “Chancing off” items brought lots of dollars to the treasury.  Ideas for social contact and profit included but weren't limited to barn dances, picture shows, talent shows, cake walks, cosmetic parties, and the sale of note pads, kitchen scrubbers, candy and tons and tons of pecans.  

 

There were Masonic dinners, Masters & Wardens dinners, church dinners, Grand Visitation dinners, smorgasbord, ice cream socials, and many more dinners and catering events, including Kena Retirees Breakfast.  The oyster and ham dinners with a dance following were popular for years and years.  In fact, this was one of the first events held to raise funds for the Chapter, netting $35.41.  In the 1940s, the dinner was still popular.  The charge was $1.25 for adults and 50 cents for children and it netted $125.

 

The trends of the nation’s history were reflected in the Chapter meetings.  In the 1920s, there was “wax tax” to collect.  In the early 1930s, money was scarce and dues were hard to collect and a large number of members found it necessary to demit. During the 1940s, gasoline was rationed and several meetings had to be cancelled.  Grand Chapter was not held in 1946.  

 

During this period of the Chapter, the war came close as members joined the service and sons and husbands were killed. Chapter members volunteered for Red Cross work, took jellies and jams to Walter Reed Hospital, collected aluminum, pledged 10% of their income to war bonds, and many meetings ended with a prayer for peace.

 

During the years, there were problems, some not as serious as others.  The dance studio who rented the downstairs (prior to the thrift shop) played loud music that interrupted meetings.  Cuspidors were left in the Chapter oom, mice ate the sheaf of wheat, coal oil disappeared and the Chapter had to borrow two hot plates to cook.  The fire department was even asked to stand by during one installation.

 

Through the years Harmony Chapter has been noted for its community service and generosity to the needy.  Contributions to Masonic Youth organizations, Madison High School projects, Hospice of Northern Virginia, the fire department and others are included as a part of the Chapter’s yearly budget.  Of particular note is Harmony’s efforts to help needy families, especially during the holidays, and we're proud to say this continues today.  In 1982 a separate account was opened as a scholarship fund for the children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews of Harmony Chapter members, which also continues today.