The Daughters' Reflections Volume 23 Issue 3

from Sarah Reveley and BOM A Note From Our President members regarding her expulsion. Mrs. Reveley was properly notified of the hearing but did not attend. The Upcoming Events As 2010 ends and we welcome result of the hearing was Mrs. 2011, it is an honor to remember our Reveley’s permanent removal from Republic of Texas Museum fallen heroes and celebrate 175 The Daughters of The Republic of years of Texas Independence. The Texas. Art Contest Awards Program Daughters of The Republic of Texas can be proud of an outstanding job Due to some individual’s complaints Mar 19th preserving our past and looking many hours and much expense is forward to shaping the future of the still being spent complying with the oldest women’s organization in our ongoing requests coming from the great state. Texas Attorney General. As can be DRT Convention expected DRT suffers in many areas It has been my distinct pleasure to th because of this ongoing May 12-14 travel crisscross Texas attending investigation. This administration will many functions, speaking Crown Plaza Riverwalk – S.A. continue to comply with all requests engagements, and all but one District even though it requires personal workshop. Chartering new chapters expense and many hours that could stands out among the many activities be spent working toward our mission. CRT Convention your President General has attended. New chapters added thus Now is the time to save the date for June 24-25th far are Goliad, and Dublin with Llano March 5th. The175th anniversary being added January 22, 2011. Trips remembering the battle of The Alamo Sheraton Hotel - Arlington to San Antonio and Austin are adding concert will be held in Alamo Plaza. up at a rapid rate. According to our bylaws, your Over half of DRT Chapters have nominating committee is asking either made or pledged a $1,000 chapters to search their members for donation to the Vision in hopes of volunteers to fill the few vacant making The Republic of Texas offices for the upcoming term. It is History Complex a reality. I urge all an honor to serve DRT on the BOM chapters to share the enthusiasm for and I encourage every eligible the future of DRT and the member to serve. preservation of Texas History. DRT annual convention is just a few One trip to San Antonio in October months away. Please make every was especially memorable, attending effort to attend this year’s convention The Alamo Gala, honoring John May 12-14, 2010, at the Crowne Wayne as his daughter and Plaza hotel in San Antonio home of granddaughter represented the The Alamo, Shrine to Texas Wayne family. Having the Gala in Freedom. Alamo Plaza with the Shrine as the If I can be of assistance to any focal point on a fabulous moon lit member please email or call Reflections Deadline night was a true goose bumps anytime. My door is always open. moment. Attendees are still March 15, 2011 commenting on that special evening. In The Spirit of Texas, Your BOM was honored to be special M.P. Patti Atkins, President General All submissions MUST be guests of the William Barrett Travis made electronically to Chapter during their annual founder’s [email protected] day luncheon. A hearing was held in executive NO EXCEPTIONS session for the purpose of hearing Vision Project Update Treasurer General Update by Nancy Shurtleff, Chair by Karen Clogsten RTHC Vision Project Team The Native Texan License Plate sales continue to allow The Vision Team is pleased to report that last month we The Daughters of the Republic of Texas to preserve received a grant from the Fondren Foundation in Texas historic sites or fund educational programs that Houston for $100,000 to go toward the purchase of the teach Texas History. By placing a Native Texan License historic lot adjacent to the French Legation Museum. Plate on your vehicle you are both financially and We are very hopeful that this is just the beginning! We visually supporting the mission statement of this great have only two months remaining to raise the $1,400,000 organization, and you have made possible the following needed to purchase 810-1/2 San Marcos Street, and we new NTLP grants: are working hard to make it happen! We continue to submit grant requests to foundations and corporations. The President General’s Challenge to hapters to give Grantee Amount Purpose $1,000 to the Project so far has yielded at least $1,000 from 46 chapters and 4 Chapter Pledges for $1,000. We French $30,000 Restoration Legation hope the remaining chapters will join the Challenge Museum soon! Texas Star $600 Texas Historical Commission Historical Throughout DRT there are chapters and individual Chapter Marker of May Leon Dyer, Army of the members working in different ways to raise funds for the Republic of Texas Vision. San Saba River Chapter is raffling off a 37” The Cradle $4,974 Maintenance Sanyo Flat-Screen TV on December 11th. Tickets: $5.00 each, 6 for $25.00. The Hills Country Club has Elgin $10,000 Purchase of the Mary Christian donated a Golf Package for 4 at their Flintrock Falls Golf Historical Course located between Lakeway and Austin, drawing to Assoc. be December 1st. Tickets: $10.00 each, 3 for $25.00. Joy Vazquez, Villa de San Agustin de Laredo Gonzalis $34,169 Replace Roof on the J.B. Wells Home Chapter, has donated a week’s stay in a 2-bedroom, Chapter 2-bath apartment in Oropesa, Spain. Tickets: Relics, Old $605 Honor Veterans of the Republic of $10.00 each, 3 for $25.00. The winner for this Trails & Texas by marking their graves. raffle will be drawn at the 2011 DRT Convention in Historic Sites Committee San Antonio. Please go to “Announcements” on the DRT Members Only website for more details.

There is much more fundraising going on, from the “This Little Piggy Supports the Vision” piggy banks donated by Judy Day, William Barret Travis Chapter, to a luncheon given by Jean Sitterle, Miss Ima Hogg Chapter to a multi-chapter meeting Volume 23 Issue 3 dedicated hosted by K. Jenschke, Charles G. Davenport in Loving Memory of Chapter. Kayla Lee Roberts Past President General CRT Emily Little of the Clayton, Levy & Little Architect 1986-2010 Firm, and a neighbor of the French Legation Museum, has prepared a feasibility study on the 810 San Marcos Street Property, and this will be available on the DRT Website soon. This was a pro-bono study. The French Legation By Gayla Lawson, Chairman

We have a glorious opportunity before us; we must not let it escape us.” These were the words written by Jean Pierre Isidore Alphonse Dubois de Saligny to the king of France in order to persuade his home country to recognize Texas as the Republic of Texas. Dubois was successful and later appointed charge´ d´affaires to Texas. And so, in 1841 the French Legation was built. Using Dubois’ words as its theme, the Glorious Opportunity Preservation project for the French Legation Museum has begun. To launch the preservation project, a highly successful Wine and Cheese Soirée was held on the grounds on a lovely evening in September. The highlight of the event was the raffle of a week’s stay in a beachfront condo in Villefranche-sur-Mer, France. A grand affair that promises an evening to remember is currently being planned for January or February 2011. This elegant gala will be a chef’s dinner, delightful entertainment and an incredible live auction. Intermittent, smaller events can be expected as newly-formed friendships with French delegations from Villefranche and Angers as well as French-American groups across Texas come to the aid of what was once French-owned property.

The French Legation Museum was recently recognized by the Austin Parks & Recreation Department as a 2010 Partner in the Arts and Humanities for its’ collections loan to the new Joseph and Susanna Dickinson Hannig Museum in Austin. In addition to this exciting honor, our museum was chosen as a field workshop site for the National Trust for Historic Preservation Annual Conference held in late October.

October 12th was a particularly outstanding day to honor Miss Lillie Robertson in collaboration with the William B. Travis Chapter to which she belonged. A group of dedicated daughters from several chapters and the FLMC were joined by Robertson descendants to unveil the memorial marker on Miss Lillie’s grave in Oakwood Cemetery. A reception followed at the Legation under the shade of trees very likely to have shaded that remarkable model of the DRT’s mission in action when she lived in the house!

The little mansion on Robertson Hill was the first fine home in Austin and stands proudly as the oldest home in the city now. With a protected view of the Capitol from the front porch, it commands respect and reverence as a treasure of the past and an anchor to the future. It is keeping history alive and well in our great state. Come see for yourself; enjoy its journey toward restoration! Become a part by becoming a Friend. www.FrenchLegation.com ************Chapter News *************

James Bowie Franc e Cook Van Zandt September, the James Bowie Chapter of Frances Cooke Van Zandt Chapter’s program on September 11 paid Texarkana met at the historic Ace of Clubs tribute to 2 chapter members who served as President General of DRT – House. The Italianate-Victorian style house Harriet Vandervoort in 1951 and Naomi –Ray Morey in 1969. has 22 sides with 3 octagonal wings and one rectangular wing. It was built by pioneer and After the tribute, Chapter Past President Nancy Stowe told of her long- local lumberman and Confederate Veteran, time friendship with Naomi-Ray Morey, who grew up in Fort Worth, was Captain James H. Draughon in the shape of the active in many civic and lineage associations, and retired from Atlantic ace of clubs playing card. It is a National Richfield Oil Co. She was admitted to DRT in 1958 and served on the Register property and a Recorded Texas BOM as 1st Vice President, traveling thousands of miles across Texas to Historical Landmark. This house is considered establish at least 12 new chapters during her 2-year term. After being one of the most unique in the country. elected President General in 1969, she began acquiring gifts for the Alamo, Museum & Library. Her President General’s project was the restoration of the Carriage House at the French Legation and she was DRT Trivia … Do you know? also involved in the restoration of the Cradle in Galveston. Naomi-Ray Morey’s exciting life ended in tragedy on the night of January 12, 1984 Who founded DRT? when she was trapped inside her home which was engulfed in flames. Look for the Answer in next Reflections issue. Her love and devotion to DRT was immeasurable and her service to our Last Issue: chapter (including 2 terms as chapter president) will long be How many Daughters Strong is DRT? remembered. None of our present members had a personal relationship Answer: 7054 Daughters Strong with Harriet Vandervoort; therefore, she was not discussed further. Baron de Bastrop Villa de San Agustin de Laredo On Saturday, September 11th at the McDade The Daughters of the Republic of Texas Villa de Cemetery, the Baron de Bastrop Chapter of The Daughters San Agustin de Laredo chapter hosted the District VII of the Republic of Texas held a dedication of a memorial meeting October 1-2. Friday night, the group gathered at medallion at the grave of Mary Elizabeth Turner the beautiful Falcon International Bank Lake House, where Billingsley. Mary Billingsley is Bastrop County’s only Mayor Raul Salinas welcomed the group to what was Real Daughter. A Real Daughter is a member of The dubbed Fiesta Noche de Loteria. included a delicious buffet Daughters of the Republic of Texas whose parents lived in of Mexican food prepared by Cindy’s Catering, followed by the Republic of Texas before Texas became a State. games of Loteria,the popular Mexican-style Bingo. The Texian Legacy Association provided a color Mariachi Alegre during dinner. guard. Chapter Secretary, Alyce Ferguson gave a scripture On Saturday, Melinda Navarro, District reading and the invocation. Vice-President, JoNell Majors, VII Representative, presided. Gloria Guajardo gave the led the pledges to the flags of the United States and Texas. Invocation. The Laredo Border Patrol presented the colors President, Mariann Laughlin, gave the welcome and and Dr. Ray Keck gave the welcome. Dr. Keck’s mother, introduction. Chapter Registrar, Evelyn Wolf, recited the Mrs. Joyce Littlepage Keck, was instrumental in helping Call to Remembrance. charter the Laredo chapter. the meeting, Linda Austin of the Baron de Bastrop treasurer, Kay Valenta, Presidio La Bahiachapter in Goliad, was elected to be the delivered a biographical sketch of Mary Billingsley. She new District VII representative. During lunch, Jose Lopez told the crowd that Mary Billingsley was born in 1856, the held the group spellbound with musical renditions on his only child of Edwin Turner and Mary Kinney O’Neal trumpet. Turner. She married Samuel Wilson Billingsley of Bastrop State officers attending included President County in 1875. Mary died on April 27, 1941. Her father General Patti Atkins, District VII Representative Melinda came from Missouri to Texas before the Revolution and Navarro, Past President General and Laredo Chapter fought in the battles of Gonzales in 1835 and Salado in Madrina,Virginia Van Cleave and State Recording 1842. Mrs. Billingsley’s DRT certificate is #1070, and Secretary General Stephanie Gault. was approved in 1920. Laredo Daughters who helped included Co-Chairs The descendants of Mary Turner Billingsley also Ana Flores and Amparo Compton; Committee Chairmen participated in the ceremony by unveiling the tombstone Martha Fenstermaker, Keri Garza, Stephanie Gault, Gloria with its new medallion. Family members present were: Guajardo, Annabelle Hall , Letti Martinez, Annie Ochoa, Rosalie Swenson, granddaughter of Mary Billingsley, Jennie Reed, Julia Ruhlman and Joy Vazquez. Rosalie’s son, Mike, his wife, Cecilia, and their daughter, Laura Swenson, who is presently a law student at the Moon-McGehee University of Texas. On Thursday, November 4, the Moon-McGehee Chapter of Dressed in authentic costuming from the 1836 San Marcos honored one of the two men for which their Texas Revolution, The Texian Legacy Association chapter is named. delivered a three gun, powder ball salute, adding to the Family members, DRT members and SRT dignity and color of the occasion. Afterwards, members members met in the San Marcos City Cemetery to dedicate and guests were treated to a reception and refreshments at a Memorial Veteran's Medallion on the headstone of the Faith Lutheran Church in McDade, provided by the Thomas Gilmer McGehee. McGehee, born in 1810 in members of the Baron de Bastrop Chapter. Georgia, moved to Alabama where he married Minerva It is one of the privileges of DRT Chapters to seek Hunt in 1832. Shortly thereafter, they settled in Milam’s out the graves of Real Daughters in their areas and see that colony. they are maintained and that their Real Daughters are In 1836 McGehee joined the Mina Volunteers and honored, thereby helping to keep alive the history and served under Captain Jesse Billingsley in the First sacrifices of those who worked and fought so hard to make Regiment of Texas Militia. After his discharge the family Texas a Republic. remained at their farm near Bastrop until 1846, when McGehee took up his headright for service in the revolution and established a farm in Hays County where the Blanco River runs into the San Marcos. James Butler Bonham On June 11, 2010, members of the James Butler Bonham Chapter attended a presentation by Alexander Olson, PhD candidate at the University of Michigan and recipient of the Chapter’s Research Grant in Texas History at the DeGolyer Library, Southern Methodist University. Mr. Olson spoke about his discoveries related to the correspondence of Henry Nash Smith (American Studies pioneer, former faculty member at SMU, and former editor of Southwest Review) and Mary Austin (famed author and activist). While the Smith-Austin letters are held in archives in California, DeGolyer Library's material allowed Mr. Olsen to contextualize the events described in their correspondence and further his doctoral dissertation arguments. Mr. Olson plans to write an article on his research for the Southwest Review. Joshua D. Brown Dr. Wilhelm Keidel The year has started with a bang in Kerrville! Ten As Daughters of the Republic of Texas, one of our members of the Joshua D. Brown Chapter, Kerrville traveled to goals is to encourage historical research into the earliest records Columbus for the District VIII Workshop on September 18, 2010 of Texas, to foster the preservation of documents and relics, and hosted by The Dilue Rose Harris Chapter of Columbus, Texas. to encourage the publication of source material for the history of Members attending were Shirley Smith, Joy Putnam, Stu Texas. Adamslundy, GayNell We lls, Nancy McLarry, Billie Bryant, The Dr. Wilhelm Keidel Chapter members of Judy Morris, Carol Harwell, Wanda Halmon, and Martha Fredericksburg are pleased to announce the recent publication Batchelor. Stu and Judy’s husbands attended the reception, Rural Cemeteries of Gillespie County, Texas, Volume II. The along with the ten ladies. book is a collection of 52 local cemeteries' records and will be Seven members of the Joshua D. Brown Chapter beneficial to anyone doing genealogical research of this area's gathered Saturday, September 25, 2010 to display our Traveling ancestors. Also available in limited supply is Rural Cemeteries Texas History Trunk at the Texas Living History Day at the of Gillespie County, Texas, Vo lume I which is a collection of 90 Schreiner University, and to tell about the early Texan’s way of smaller, some on private property, rural cemeteries' information life. Approximately 1500 students and adults signed pledge and was published in 2003. Vo lume II does not duplicate any of cards with quill pens and berry juice. The contents of the Trunk the information contained in Vo lume I. were examined by the children and many questions were asked Many DRT members and Fredericksburg and answered. The students enjoyed touching the various fur Genealogical Society members helped canvass cemeteries as well pelts and trying on the coon skin caps as well as the bonnets. as research additional information such as names of parents and They listened in awe as Joy Putnam explained that the many spouses. The DRT Chapter feels that the printed copy is another patches on her skirt were to patch the holes caused by sparks method of record preservation for posterity and is beneficial to from the fires as the pioneer women cooked their meals, and that anyone not using a computer for research. since this was most likely the lady's only skirt, she wore a white Copies are available for purchase and may be apron when they went somewhere to hide the patches. They ordered from Cemetery Book Committee Chairperson Kay loved the clay marbles and other toys. Members attending Daigle, at dressed in period costumes were Shirley Hagley, Shirley Smith, Cost for Volume I is $15.95 plus $4.00 for Joy Putnam, Eva Smith, Wanda Halmon, Denise Ramirez and shipping and handling, and Vo lume II is $25.99 plus $4.00 for Judy Morris. shipping and handling. Both books are available for purchase at Donna Beth McCormick, docent of the Texas the Gillespie County Historical Society Pioneer Museum Governor's Mansion, was the speaker at the October meeting. Bookstore in the historic Dambach-Besier House located at 325 She presented a video about the history of the mansion, including West Main St in Fredericksburg or via the website at the fact that Temple Lea Houston (daughter of Sam Houston) www.PioneerMuseum net. was the first child born there, and other historical facts. She also The Dr. Wilhelm Keidel Chapter members discussed the fire at the mansion. A bottle of gasoline was encourage all interested descendants of persons buried in local thrown to start the fire at the right side of the porch. The fire was cemeteries to visit and help maintain the sites. so intense that the steel roof girders were warped and twisted and had to be removed by hand. Cranes couldn't get in there to remove this stuff. So the clean up took up much time. Luckily all the furniture and artifacts had been removed so they could Hiram Bennett Chapter renovate. The mantles, staircase banister, and other surfaces had Get you pin “T E X A N” pin from the Hiram been protected for the renovation so the fire didn't hurt them. Bennett Chapter, with a picture of the Alamo and a Texas They are now beginning the repair phase of the project, which is flag in the background. Every DRT member will be proud to scheduled to be completed sometime in 2012. Also at the honor their ancestor by wearing this pin upon their ribbon. October meeting, the Chapter voted to donate another $1000. to $ 25 each Make check or money order payable to the Vision. HIRAM BENNETT CHAPTER, DRT. Six member of the Joshua D Brown Chapter attended Send quantity request along with your name and the October meeting of the Kerrville Genealogy Society: Shirley full mailing address including phone number to: Joe Ann Hagele, Joy Putnam, Judy Morris, Carol Harwell, Linda Patten McIver, and Shirley Smith. They presented the book "Founders and Patriots of the Republic of Texas, Vo l. 9" which was donated by the Chapter. Thus far over the years the Chapter has donated Sterling C. Roberts Volumes 2- 9. The Genealogy Society members were most The Chapter hosted a table at the fiftieth anniversary appreciative and said the books are used all the time. conference of Texas State Genealogical Society in November. On Thursday, November 4, Shirley Smith, Carol of Waco was among the exhibitors, chosing to sponsor a table Harwell, Peggy Tombs, and Linda Patten attended the Stephen F. to provide information about The Daughters of the Republic of Austin luncheon hosted by the William B. Travis chapter at the Texas and to promote new memberships among the conference Austin Woman's club. attendees. Brochures and other literature about DRT, SRT, and The November meeting of the Joshua D Brown CRT were available, as well as a list of chapters so potential Chapter, Kerrville will be held on Monday, November 22. The birthday of Stephen F Austin will be commemorated along with new members could determine the one nearest to their home DRT Founders Day, and the guest speaker, Gerald Irion, will towns. present a program on "Climbing the Family Tree." Collin-McKinney Ferdinand Lindheimer Our year began in August with a board meeting where the board discussed the The Ferdinand Lindheimer Chapter upcoming year and the exciting plans for our Chapter. It was apparent from the is selling raffle tickets for a hand stitched red, beginning that our year would encompass an array of many exciting activities. white & blue Texas Flag Quilt with all the Our programs this year are proving to bring in many new visitors each month! names of the Alamo Defenders hand stitched At our September meeting, Dr. Dottie Woodson from Texas A&M on quilt. The quilt is approximately 4’ x 6’ Extension service gave a program on WATER ... Texas's precious resource ... size. Raffle tickets are 1 for $5 or 3 tickets for that was very enlightening to us all. $10. The drawing will be held at the DRT Our October meeting with Jim Gatewood, author of several books on Convention in San Antonio, May 2011 (you do local Dallas / Fort Worth history, gave a fascinating talk on the Top of the Hill, a not have to be present to win). You can’t win wild speak-easy and gambling house in the 20’s, as well as on local characters, movers and shakers, whose interesting lives related to that period of our history. if you don’t buy a ticket! Contact Karen Boyd Speaker Cheryl Smith from the Plano genealogical library will take us or Susan Sonier for more information. Other on a Genealogical adventure in November. chapter news, we along with the New Officers and members attended the District III meeting in Mesquite Braunfels SRT Chapter dedicated the Stephen and enjoyed meeting ladies from other chapters throughout the district and F. Austin (oak tree) Marker on the Comal sharing tips on reaching new prospective members as well as interesting chapter County Courthouse Grounds on Nov 3rd, activities. which was organized by Delitha Guenzel. Our Chapter always enjoys participating in one of our favorite community activities … our annual trip to Heritage Old City Park in Dallas Cradle of Texas where members and prospectives decorate the Doctor's House for the Christmas A Celebration and reception honoring season in pre-1900 style. This year we also plan to decorate the Young House at Stephen F. Austin's Birthday hosted by the the Farmstead Museum in Plano, Texas. Cradle of Texas Chapter was held November In January, we are having a VERY exciting program: Helen Garrison 3, 2010. Co-Chairman were Charlene Buck, will be reenacting “Belle Starr”, In February, Ranger Ray Martinez author of Ramah O'Garman and Patricia Schwebel. Ranger Ray will be the program speaker. In March, we have Bill Covington, Despite the inclement weather, the "The Continental Soldier" coming to educate us on the ties from the American turn out was wonderful and had to be held at Revolution to the Republic of Texas. We are inviting other local DRT chapters the American Legion Hall in West Columbia and the Sons of the Republic of Texas to join our meetings to hear these instead of the beautiful park dedicated to his outstanding speakers. We were grateful they have made time for our chapter. memory. We feel very blessed to have such a vibrant Chapter! The Collin McKinney chapter of the DRT is Alive and Well in Plano! The Wild Peach 4th and 6th graders We are proud to report that we have welcomed many new members over the past entertained guest with dancing and singing. year, bringing our total membership to 50. From April 2009 to April 2010 , we Ceremonial Flag raising was conducted by the experienced fantastic growth with 7 new members giving us a 25% increase in Brazoswood Jr. R.O. T. C.. The Brazoria membership! We have 38 prospective members working on papers. We expect Historical Militia was present firing a salute in another great growth year as at our first meeting we had 3 introductions, and 1 honor of Austin's birthday. Attendees were installation Pending. honored with the presence of Austin, who was We are proud to sponsor the Col. John McGarrah CRT Chapter, with portrayed by Stan Murray dressed in period Kelsey Bolgiano as President, with 12 members. costume. Dignitaries included Majorie Lee Each year we participate in the DRT essay contests and last year we Burnett, Register General DRT who placed a judged entries from Murphy Middle School and Allen Boyd Elementary. At the wreath in Austin's honor, as well as some of end of these contests, we gave a participation party for the children with Food, Austin's decedents. Fun, and Games (Texas Bingo) where we all had a great time! At the conclusion of the Murphy school contest, our chapter was recognized as a historical Sidney Sherman organization in Collin County for a second year. Our 7th Grade District Essay We just has to brag on Catherine Polk, a 2- winner also won the district level! Our historian is writing a Texas history column for the Bi-weekly year member and retired teacher!! She has “Murphy Messenger” newspaper and sponsors a Facebook page on the chapter. made the Texas Trunk come alive! She has This is a GREAT opportunity to educate the community not only about Texas presented the trunk to five elementary but about the DRT. schools and five junior highs with more than The Collin McKinney Chapter is proud to present the sale of our one presentation on the same day in some Chapter Pin. Our beautiful pin is shaped in the state of Texas and its banner schools. She was invited to speak for a presents the Texas Declaration of Independence and the proud name of Collin church seniors group . They were thrilled McKinney. On the tip of the quill pen is a lovely blue stone making this pin and could remember their grandparents using truly unique. If you’d be interested in supporting our Chapter through the some of the items. She also gave programs purchase of this pin, please make a check payable to Collin McKinney DRT and for the Texas City Ancestors Searchers and mail it to: Kimberly Fogle . The cost of the the George Washington Chapter of the DAR. pin is $25.00 + 3.00 shipping and handling. Last year she included a nursing home. We hope her excitement will be contagious and inspire others. "Way to go, Catherine!" Charles Calvin McCoy Rolling Hills Country Club in Arlington Texas was the setting for the 2010 District II Daughters of the Republic Workshop The Charles Calvin McCoy Chapter had the privilege of hosting this year’s workshop held on August 21st Attendees were invited to a casual buffet dinner Friday evening provided by the Charles Calvin McCoy chapter members District II Representative, Betty Gosdin, called the meeting to order at 9:00 a m The invocation was given by Past Chaplain General, Billie Beth Moore The pledges to the flag of the United States of America and the flag of the State of Texas were led by Edith Shelinbarger and by Gina Ferren of Arlington The singing of Texas Our Texas was led by Debra Pearson of Fort Worth Faye Elder, president of the host chapter, welcomed the guests and extended a special welcome to Past President General, Helen Burleson Kelso Ms Elder introduced those seated at the head table which included: President General Patti Atkins from the Franklin Hardin Chapter, Liberty; Parliamentarian General Connie Cole Surrency from the Robert Henry Chapter, Bryan; Past Chaplain General Billie Beth Moore from the Frances Cooke Van Zandt Chapter, Fort Worth; District II Representative Betty Gosdin from Comanche Peak Chapter, Granbury; and, acting secretary Cherry Williams from the Charles Calvin McCoy Chapter, Arlington Every chapter in District II was represented The minutes of the 2009 District II meeting were available to each person present They stood approved as submitted Shirley Simpson gave the report of the Workshop Credentials Committee There were 82 in attendance, which included two guests, and two CRT members There were 55 voting members present Ms Gosdin next called for the election of a District II Representative and an alternate for 2011 She called upon Parliamentarian General, Connie Surrency, of the Robert Henry Chapter of Bryan, to outline for those present the proper voting procedures Ms Surrency read the pertinent section from the by-laws Ms Gosdin then read the only endorsement which was from the Wichita Falls chapter recommending that Linda Marie Frazier Jackson be placed in nomination for District II Representative The vote was unanimous to elect Linda Jackson as District II Representative Next, Ms Gosdin read the only endorsement for Alternate which was from the Comanche Peak Chapter of Granbury for Rhonda Myers Duffey This vote, too, was unanimous President General, Patti Atkins stated that DRT is doing well The review of DRT books was both needed and welcomed since the opinion of the Attorney- General's office was required concerning the necessary IRS schedules The other concern, that of licensing souvenirs sold at the Alamo, is a trademark issue This is a business negotiation which would allow the Alamo to sell licensed Texas items unique to the Alamo Ms Atkins announced that Billie Dawson had stepped up to fill the vacancy in the office of Third Vice President 1st Vice President General Helen Kelso reported on changes in several DRT chapters during the year A new District II chapter was organizing in Dublin to be chartered as the Hill Country Chapter with Marla Hill Bush as organizing president There is a new chapter in District VII chartered as the Presidio La Bahia Chapter of Goliad The Texian Chapter of Austin in District VIII is now in the process of disbanding District VIII is gaining a chapter as well, however, since the Llano Pioneers Chapter is organizing under president Arlene Spann Garey 3rd Vice President General Elect Billie Dawson expressed appreciation for the help she has received since taking over this position She recommended that the CRT meet in convention next year in Arlington 5th Vice President General Shirley Burnett reported on the school projects The subject for 4th grade essays will be "The Fall of the Alamo " The subject for 7th grade essays will be "The Fall of the Alamo Through the Eyes of Davy Crockett " Treasurer General Karen Clogston gave a report on the requirements for maintaining tax exempt status Ms Clogston emphasized that each chapter treasurer is responsible for filing Form 990 Chapters must report to the Treasurer General total volunteer hours and the total number of individuals who volunteered The counting period for is June 1 of the current year through May 31 of the following year To facilitate the record keeping dues are now due as of October 1 Dues are to be mailed to the 2nd Vice President General Registrar General Marjorie Lee Burnett of Smiley reported 631 applications were approved with 407 new members There were, in addition, 213 supplementals and 11 posthumous honors Custodian General Betty Bird extended greetings from Headquarters and observed that most of the problems with the building and grounds have been resolved The roof is repaired The air conditioner, which was stolen, was replaced with most of the cost being covered by insurance The LDS records preservation group will digitize our records at no cost Ancestor pictures are still being accepted to include with the records The new Manual of Procedure is now available for $14 50 The Annual Proceedings is available for $22 00 Binders for the MOP will be available to order Parliamentarian General Connie Surrency of Bryan reiterated the importance of following by-laws She noted that we should be familiar with the Manual of Procedure, called MOPS, as well as with Robert's Rules of Order District I Representative Doris L Williams of Midland reported on the work they are doing with DRT and CRT membership drives District II Representative Betty Gosdin thanked the Charles Calvin McCoy Chapter for hosting the 2010 workshop She also expressed gratitude for the cooperation of that chapter as well as others in District II as she carried out the duties of her office District IV Faye Eddins of Center reported for her district District VI Representative Sandra Meier extended an invitation to attend their workshop in Webster She expressed gratitude for all who attended the convention in Houston in May Liz Benevedes reported for the Alamo Committee Structural issues have been a concern but the structure has been deemed safe for the public Diana Arias, serving as chairman for the Gala, plans an exclusive showing of the movie The Alamo Suzie Brooks is heading up plans for a silent auction A celebration also is being planned for the 275th anniversary of the Texas Revolution Linda Cooper, reporting for the Cradle Committee, invited all to visit the birthplace of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas Betty Bird reported for the Headquarters/Museum Committee She said that a new webmaster had been employed by DRT The web address is www drtinfo org Additionally, each office will now have an email address Projects include a Texas wildflower book by Eliza Griffin which is to be reprinted as a fund raising project The 5th of the twelve planned wildflower pins is available for purchase Summer camp for third through eighth-graders will be continued In addition to the art contests for children, the over 55 art contest has proved successful The museum is still accepting Republic of Texas artifacts for preservation and display John Ellen Becker, RHTC member, reported for the Republic of Texas History Complex Vision Committee The group has signed an option to purchase agreement with one year to raise the purchase price of $1,425,000 The current amount raised by the committee is $300,000 Christine Berklan reported for the French Legation Committee that income is up Their committee continues to focus on preservation, collaboration and sustainability Doris Johnston reported for the By-laws Committee She encouraged members to purchase their MOP She also recognized Lisa Kight who is a member of the By-laws Committee and is a member of the host chapter Billie Beth Moore reported for the Senior Members Committee She remarked with enthusiasm on what a thrill it is to receive 25- 50- and 75-year recognitions at the State Conventions She urged Chapters to keep up with members and their years She also noted that copies of yearbooks should be submitted There was no report from the San Jacinto Battlefield but President General, Patti Adkins, commented that the Battlefield Committee had been able to acquire property adjacent to the Battleground and congratulated the committee on this No one from the Historical Publications Committee was in attendance A submission for the minutes stated that The Texas History Educational Fund had a balance on hand of $156 27 Margaret Anderson reported for the Legislative Committee that "My TLO" and the website www capitol state tx us provide current information on bills introduced and being considered by the State Legislature Judy Tannehill reported for the Alamo STF Capital Campaign She gave a brief summary of activities and asked for those present to stand as a show of support Support was unanimous This concluded the committee reports and Betty Gosdin recognized Faye Elder who recognized each chapter in the district by asking them to stand as their chapter name was called Betty called attention to the presidents' reports which were provided to each person in attendance Elaine Dippel issued an invitation to the 2011 District II workshop to be held in Brownwood Following a blessing given by Billie Beth Moore, lunch was served After lunch, President General Patti Atkins provided clarification of some points of procedure She thanked members for studying by-laws and for asking questions Nancy Stowe brought several questions concerning six star qualifications These were answered with one point, concerning the date dues are due, deemed as possibly needing further action by the BOM Betty Gosdin called for adjournment following the singing of Blest Be the Tie, led by Debra Pearson and the benediction by Billie Beth Moore Daughters of the Republic of Texas 510 E. Anderson Ln. Austin, TX 78752

Jane Wells Woods A DRT Grave Marking Ceremony for Audrey Ardelia Hahn Smith was held November 6, 2010, at the Bethel Cemetery in Burnet County. Eighteen Chapter members and dozens of family and friends gathered to honor the memory of Charter Member Audrey Smith (1919-2008) in the community where she spent her childhood, attended school and devoted her talents and labor. Audrey was a great-great-great granddaughter of Zadock Woods and Minerva Cottle Woods, members of Stephen F. Austin’s Colony. Zadock Woods was killed in the Battle of Salado Creek. His son, Norman Woods was wounded and captured during this battle and taken to Perote Prison in Mexico where he died. His remains are buried on Monument Hill in La Grange. The Jane Wells Woods Chapter bears the name of Zadock Woods’ daughter-in-law. Also remembered on this occasion are JWW Chapter members who have passed since Chartering in 1997. Those are: Ann Hill Glimp, 1998; Hazel Baker Johnson, 1998; Billie Shelburn Winner, 2002; June Smith Zimmerman, 2008; Jeane Hughes Roberts, 2008; and Katherine Spiller Waddingham, 2010. William Carroll Crawford Like many of our sister chapters, the William Carroll Crawford Chapter of Center pledged $1000 to the Vision. The chapter members brainstormed ways to raise the money. On Friday, November 12, they met at their First Ladies in Texas building and peeled potatoes, chopped onions, celery and carrots, browned piles of beef cubes to make gallons of beef stew for their “lunch on the square.” Pre-sold orders were delivered to businesses in town and walk-up diners were encouraged to enjoy their stew, drink and dessert at tables under the trees on the Courthouse Square. By the end of lunch time enough stew had been sold to enable the chapter to increase their original pledge by 50%. Isn’t it great that people like to eat? In November the Chapter placed a memorial medallion on the gravesite of Barbara Cockrell Wright, a faithful DRT member who passed away last year. Joining the William Carroll Crawford Chapter of the DRT in honoring Barbara were members of the Gateway to Texas Chapter of the Sons of the Republic of Texas and the Nail Creek Vo lunteers, who gave a blackpowder rifle salute. Mike Wood played the bagpipes and Darien Hribal of the JJE Gibson Chapter of the Children of the Republic of Texas led the pledges to the United States and Texas Flags. At the conclusion of the program cookies and drinks were served to the guests. In September the Chapter held a “get acquainted” luncheon for prospective members who wanted to learn more about DRT. Fay Eddins, District IV Representative gave a brief history of the organization. Maggie Casto, Chapter Registrar, explained the application process and gave suggestions on finding those last proofs that seem to elude all research. Billie Dawson, Chapter President, told about the Chapter projects and goals, particularly the annual Republic of Texas Celebration. Jean Corbell, the newest member, was welcomed into the chapter at the luncheon.