First Grand Matron

Melissa E. Cook

The first Grand Matron of the Grand Chapter of Massachusetts, Sister Melissa E. Cook, was endearingly known as Mother Cook.  In her life she blended to beautiful harmony from the principles of religion and of the Order of the Eastern Star.  Ever modest and retiring, kind and gentle in speech and manner, she endeared herself to all with whom she came in contact and was beloved by them.

Sister Cook was interested in all worthwhile projects When the Degrees of the Order of the Eastern Star were informally introduced and conferred in the City of Springfield, in the fall of 1869, our dear Sister was one of the pioneers with faith, courage, perseverance and great vision.  She assisted in organizing Adelphi Chapter No. 2.  While serving her second year as Worthy Matron, the Grand Chapter was organized, and Sister Melissa E. Cook was elected its first Grand Matron.  She served three years, from 1876 - 1879.   Four years later, in 1883, our faithful Sister was again at the helm of Adelphi Chapter and remained three years.

Sister Cook deeply appreciated human personalities, had great faith in the Sisters and Brothers and her spirit of fraternalism was strong.  In her 89th year, on July 25, 1930, Mother Cook peacefully "fell asleep" and awoke in the Grand Chapter Above.

(from the Diamond Jubilee Program. Written by Leona H. Gowdy, P.G.M.)