West Liberty History 1838-1938

Source: One Hundred Years of History
* Commemorating a Century of Progress in the West Liberty Community * WEST LIBERTY, IOWA
CHAPTER A H, P. E. O.

Chapter A H, P. E. O. was organized September 2, 1892 by a group of young ladies known as a Readers Club. Of the nine charter members, Mrs. Harriet Schmalz is the only one now a member of Chapter A H.

The first officers were president, Linnie Harris; vice president, Mollie Shourds; recording secretary, Anna King; corresponding secretary, Anna Coyle; treasurer, Abbie Fenstermaker; chaplain, Deborah Henselwood; guard, Hattie Luse.

The chapter was always taking an active interest in all civic projects, donating to the public library and Parent Teachers Association.

In 1926 the chapter sponsored a home talent play, "The Womanless Wedding " and gave $200 of the proceeds toward paving the street to the cemetery.

The programs of the year book feature reviews of plays and books, and many educational topics of interest.

Mary Allen Stafford, one of the original founders of P. E. O., was a member of the chapter for several years. Two of the former members have been honored with state offices, Mrs. Mina Hise as president of Colorado State Chapter and Mrs. Emma Luse McCaw as president of the Oregon State Chapter.

The present membership numbers fifty one.

The present officers are: Mrs. Bertha Jack, president; Mrs. Jean McMahon, vice president; Mrs. Helen Smith, recording secretary; Mrs. Carrie Hinkhouse, corresponding secretary; Mrs. Dorothy Brown, treasurer; Mrs. Margaret Gordon, chaplain; Mrs. Gladys Brooke, guard.

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