Meridian Chapter U.D., Royal Arch Masons of Oregon

Reames Chapter #28 R.A.M. has loaned Meridian Chapter, U.D. the officer's aprons which originally belonged to Laurel Chapter #31 (the Chapter which previously closed in Roseburg, where our new Chapter is located.) Once we receive our Charter, these historic aprons will become our permanent officer's aprons.

I thought I would scan a couple sections and put them online for the perusal of those interested.

You may click either picture to see an enlargement. I apologize that the whole apron isn't visible, but I scanned as much as I could fit on my flatbed scanner, because it comes out sharper than my digital camera is capable of taking a photograph. The colors in these images are accurate, the back side of the apron being much more vibrant red than the front, indicating many years of use. They have been stored in a wooden box with individual shelves for each apron, so they have not been exposed to sunlight for any long durations, to my knowledge.

I have contacted the company which I believe acquired C.E. Ward Co., and am in the process of attempting to determine the date of manufacture for these Aprons.

I will post a comment here when I have received further information.

Tomorrow evening will be Meridian Chapter's first Stated Convocation while Under Dispensation. We have used these Aprons one other time, to open Reames Chapter #28 R.A.M. of Grants Pass here in Roseburg for the purpose of examining our meeting location as to its suitability and our officers as to their proficiency in the work, but tomorrow will be the first time a Chapter in Roseburg has used these aprons since Laurel Chapter #31 was merged into Reames in the mid 1980's.