By Wanda F. Ashcraft
Shinnston Rebekah Lodge No. 47 of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, walked into the history books of fraternalism on Monday, July 24, 2023 when Chad M. Edwards was installed as the first male Noble Grand of number 47 in 129 years. No. 47 is the third oldest Rebekah Lodge in West Virginia, being instituted on April 7, 1894.
Mr. Edwards is city manager of the City of Shinnston, and upon assuming that position, he was invited to join several groups in Shinnston by Wanda F. Ashcraft, the first and only woman Mayor of Shinnston. Now, Chad is a loyal member of No. 47, the Shinnston Garden Club, and the GFWC West Virginia Women’s Club of Shinnston. His helpful, friendly manner has made him a valued and favored member of these clubs, all of which do much to contribute to the betterment of the City of Shinnston.
Rebecca M. Long, District Deputy President, conducted the installation of officers. She was assisted by Past State Presidents, S. Sue Rowan, Charlotte P. Ross, and Wanda F. Ashcraft.
Deborah A. Starkey is the outgoing Noble Grand, and received her certificate as Past Noble Grand, and a monetary gift from No. 47,both presented to her by Noble Grand Edwards. Mrs. Starkey has served as a Noble Grand before, is a Past Dist. Deputy,Dist. 9, and is the Representative to the 2023 session of the Rebekah Assembly of West Virginia. Marjorie E. Jackson is the alternate.
Other elected officials also installed:
Vice Grand – Dortha Parsons, PDDP
Secretary – Wanda F. Ashcraft
Treasurer – Marjorie E. Jackson (20 years as Treasurer)
Appointed Officers – appointed by Noble Grand:
Chaplain – S. Sue Rowan
Warden – Barbara A Carder, P. N. G.
Conductor – Peggy A. Martin, P. N. G.
Inside Guardian – Rebecca M. Long
Outside Guardian – Bonnie J. Paxton, PDDP
RSNG – Charlotte A. Ross
LSNG – Melissa D. Rowan, P. N. G.
Flagbearer – Thelma D. Martin P. N. G.
Vice Grand Parsons appointed her supporters – RS – Deborah Starkey, PDDP, LS – Michael J. Romano
Refreshments were enjoyed, including a lovely cake with red roses, inscribed “Congratulations Chad.”