One of the things I remember as a child growing up was the occasions when my mother and grandmother would dress up in immaculate white dresses and caps and attend what seemed to me to be secret meetings. I knew the name was The Household of Ruth and the women did wonderful things in the community and the churches. I didn’t think much about it then but as I look back I remember that I was impressed, even as a child by the bearing of the women, their dedication to a cause and their work in tandem with the men who had a similar role in the community.
I hadn’t given it much thought over the years but every February during Black History Month, I take out the old albums and review memories. Because my parents took prolific pictures there was always lots to look at. Mostly I just like to remember stories which my grandparents and parents would share with us but as time has passed and throwback Thursdays are becoming more and more popular, I thought I would do a little of both this year.
One of the first pictures I found was an older photo taken perhaps in the late ’50’s or early ’60’s. With internet accessibility, I was able to find out a little more about the Household of Ruth and the Grand Order of Odd Fellows. Both my grandmother and mother appear in this picture. I hope it will bring back some memories for others as well. More information about the two organizations can be found at http://guoofamerica.com/oddfellows_natl/Household_Of_Ruth.html.
The Will to be True Blog 