The Order of the Eastern Star took root in Washington State alongside the growth of Freemasonry, beginning in Seattle under the leadership of Honorable Gideon S. Bailey of Washington Lodge No. 62. Authorized to establish a chapter, Judge Bailey organized Mt. Rainier Chapter No. 1, the first Eastern Star chapter in Washington. As membership expanded, additional chapters formed across the state. In 1912, Washington chapters united with the support of the Grand Lodge of Washington of Negro Masons to pursue independent governance. Their efforts culminated in July 1913 in Tacoma, with the official organization of the Grand Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star of Washington, led by Etta Hawkins as its first Grand Worthy Matron.
Our mission of the Order of the Eastern Star in Europe is to promote love, truth, and service by fostering strong fraternal bonds, developing principled leaders, and serving our communities with integrity, compassion, and purpose, while upholding the traditions and values of the Masonic family.