Lifestyles
First Lady Caroline Harrison greets George Blakey
By Jessica Kirkpatrick, George Blakey Public Relations
Apr 23, 2011

The April meeting of the George Blakey Daughters of the American Revolution welcomed 12 members and one guest at the Elizabeth May Room of American Bank. Hostesses Alice Creecy and Nita Brandenburger presented a beautiful Easter theme. Regent Betsy Sterkel shared a few upcoming lineage workshops to be held in Greenville on April 30 from 10 am to 12 pm and in Gainesville on June 18 from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm. The Bertha Voyer Library in Honey Grove will also host a workshop on April 30 from 10 am to 12 pm.

Eileen Cox and Beth Roeh were voted on and approved by the chapter as new members. The chapter also voted earlier this year to purchase 350 phone cards for local veterans. They have been delivered to the Bonham VA. 

“They are happy to receive them,” said member Dot Linn.

For women’s health, Sheri Thedford reminded chapter members of the importance of getting a yearly mammogram.

The program for the April meeting took the George Blakey chapter imaginations to Washington, D.C. to meet First Lady Caroline Harrison. She shared her husband Benjamin’s favorite food, known now as pigs in a blanket, and her love of music and painting. As First Lady, she was able to restore and remodel the White House, clearing the home of rodent problems and installing electricity. It is noted that the Harrison’s were both afraid of using the electricity after having it installed. She is also remembered for putting up the first Christmas tree in the White House in 1889. Harrison served as the first President General of the Daughters of the American Revolution and helped found the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution, and served as first President General.

The George Blakey Daughters of the American Revolution will meet again Saturday, May 14 at the home of Betsy Sterkel in Bonham at 2 p.m. Membership is open to all women over the age of 18. If you are interested in joining, contact Shirley Harman at 903-623-3151 or email shrly_harman@yahoo.com. Come join us!