Dr. Rob Morris, the Poet Laureate of Masonry and a Past Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Kentucky, is considered as the “master builder” of the Order. He was a professor and school administrator, masonic orator, writer of Sunday School literature. Dr. Morris was at one time chairman of the municipal board, president of the County Bible Society, and a ruling elder in the Presbyterian Church. He was a numismatist and a member of the American Numismatic and Archaeological Society. He wrote more than 400 poems and several books that continue to be valued references in today’s Masonic libraries. He also made it his mission to share the tenets of Masonry with women.
With the help of his wife Charlotte, Dr. Morris developed the beautiful initiatory degrees of the Order of the Eastern Star in 1850. The ceremony focuses on selected women of the Bible who demonstrated heroic conduct and high moral values The five degrees use these principles of charity, truth, and loving kindness–qualities that are as necessary in today’s world as they were in the 1800s.¹ While the Order of the Eastern Star has evolved over time, it remains rooted in charitable endeavors and fraternal fellowship and offers its members a wide variety of opportunities for personal growth and community involvement.
The Grand Chapter of Georgia was formed in 1901. For over 100 years, the chapters have worked to improve the lives of others and to enjoy fellowship with one another.
¹ See “The Well-Spent Life, A Brotherly Testimonial to the Masonic Career of Robert Morris, LL.D.” Compiled by Rev. Thomas R. Austin L.L.D., 33 degree, Rector of St James’ Church, Vincennes, Indiana, Past Grand Master, etc.