The real origin of the Order of the Eastern Star, like Masonry, will always be shrouded in mystery. Many researchers believe it had a French origin as early as 1703. By some, this is claimed to be the first inception of “Female Masonry” or “Androgynous Degrees,” i.e., degrees for both men and women. There appeared at that time to be a demand for “Side Degrees” or Degrees conferred on ladies and quite a list sprang up: “Heroines of Jericho,” “Danger in the Dark,” “Tall Cedars of Lebanon,” and others. These were extensively used, but soon fell into decay due to lack of lasting worth.
Dr. Rob Morris, Poet Laureate of Masonry and founder of the Order of the Eastern Star, was also never quite satisfied that all the good in Masonry should be confined to men. Dr. Morris felt that Masonry should be for the whole family, but the laws of the ancient Order of Masonry did not allow women to be eligible for its degrees. Knowing he could not change the Ancient Landmarks of Masonry, Dr. Morris sought to develop a method by which women could share with the Masonic Brothers the same inspiration that “prompts man to noble deeds” and the basis for the Order of Eastern Star was born.
The First Era of the Order of Eastern Star extended from 1850 to 1866, under Dr. Morris’ leadership. In 1850, Dr. Morris selected the Biblical heroines representing the heroic conduct, high moral values and noble principles of this fledgling Order. The Second Era extended from 1866 to 1876, under the leadership of Robert Macoy of New York. The Third Era, 1876 to the present time, saw the establishment of the General Grand Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star. Of these Eras, the first is perhaps the most important as it prepared the way for the other two.