The Col. Walter Aston Chapter Colonial Dames of XVII Century recently celebrated its 75 anniversary by honoring its Diamond Dames, or those who are 75 years old or older. Seated, from left, are Atholeene Goodwin, Chick Anderson, Doris Russell and Jessie Leonard; standing, Margaret Simnons, Margaret Wlodarski, Doris Paul, Peggy Johnson, Bonnie Turner, Margaret King, Lois Robertson, Edwina Morse, Chris Cowley, Martha Knott, Ann Lusk and Marian Powe.

The Col. Walter Aston Chapter Colonial Dames of XVII Century recently celebrated its 75th anniversary by honoring all members 75 or older as Diamond Dames.

Thirty-two members (out of the total membership of 95) fell into the category of Diamond Dames. Seventeen of the Diamond Dames were able to be in attendance for this special program.

The Colonel Walter Aston Chapter CDXVIIC was organized May 22, 1968, at the Valley Hill Country Club in Huntsville. There were only five chapters in the state when Col. Walter Aston organized. 

There were 45 ladies attending this meeting, of which 16 were approved chapter members or charter members. Three state officers were also in attendance. 

Chapter officers were installed and the organizing president, Mrs. David L. Anderson, was elected the first chapter President.  She was presented a gavel which is still used by the chapter.  

Following the meeting and luncheon, all attendees were invited to tea at the home of Mrs. David L. Anderson (Chick) and her mother, Mrs. Lena Mae Bell. Mrs. David L. Anderson is the only remaining charter member.

The Colonel Walter Aston Chapter has served the National Society with three officers: Mrs. John M. Chenault, president general 1991-1993; Mrs. James E. Johnston, president general 2003-2005; and Mrs. David L. Anderson, organizing secretary general 1975-1977.  Both of the latter were in attendance on this 75th anniversary.

The Colonel Walter Aston Chapter has had five past state presidents: Mrs. David L. Anderson, Mrs. John M. Chenault, Mrs. James E. Johnston, Mrs. E. Ray Van Orden and Ms. Phyllis O’Connell.

Current chapter President Carroll Strickland and 75th anniversary Chairman Phyllis O’Connell thanked the Diamond Dames for their guidance, their patience and their service to Colonial Dames of XVII Century, and especially to the Colonel Walter Aston Chapter in the North Alabama area. 

For more information, visit www.colonialdames17c.org.