It is very hard to tell which is the most
recognizable Physical Landmarks of the Eastern Star, the
International Headquarters, the Chapel at the International
Peace Garden, the Little Red School, or the
Rob Morris Home. It depends too, on where in the country you
live and how much you travel throughout the United States. All
of these have great significance in the lore of the Eastern
Star, and are visited year round by many people. They are all
part of the fabric that makes up the history and sentiments of
the Eastern Star.
The International Headquarters (previously known
as the International Temple) in Washington, D.C. is the
Headquarters of the International Order of the Eastern Star. The
office and residence of the Right Worthy Grand Secretary are in
this very exquisite and very opulent building. At the
Twenty-first Triennial Assembly in 1934, the International
Temple Committee was formed. Washington, D.C. was chosen and the
Belmont Mansion was purchased and dedicated in 1937. The
Belmont's were very popular members of Washington Society and
the house has a very rich history which is part of the tour
visitors receive. The Headquarters has been the recipient of
many treasures from around the world and from many Past Most
Worthy Grand Matrons and Patrons. The Most Worthy Grand Matron
and the Most Worthy Grand Patron have a suite in the building
and use it to entertain their Officers during the Triennium.
The Chapel of Peace at the International Peace
Garden is a joint vision of the members of the Grand Chapters of
North Dakota and Manitoba. The completion of the Chapel was the
primary project of the 33rd Triennial. It was dedicated in 1970
and was completed in 1972. The interior limestone is engraved
with quotations from men of peace throughout the world. The
Chapel is non-denominational and arrangements for the use of the
Chapel for appropriate services can be made. It is surrounded by
beautiful gardens and fountains and straddles the border between
the United States and Canada. Each Triennium the Most Worthy
Grand Matron and Most Worthy Grand Patron make a Pilgrimage to
the Great Northwest to visit the Chapel and the beautiful
gardens.
Information credited from
http://www.easternstar.org/oes_landmarks.htm