Martha Washington Questers

Martha Washington Questers 1032 met at the home of Vicki Ealy on March 27, 2015. The meeting was called to order by acting president Vicki Ealy, and the Questers Invocation was recited by seven members, who then answered roll call. The secretary?s report and the treasurer?s report were given. A motion was made by Vicki and seconded by Pat Johnson to accept the reports as given.

A card was signed and sent to Gerry Schmidt, who had not been feeling well. Membership dues of $35 were paid for the coming year. Janet Peterson read a thank-you from Iowa State Questers and Iowa Glass Committee for the club?s $50 donation. A thank-you was also read from the Iowa Questers Restoration Fund for the club?s $25 donation.

Members were reminded to be thinking of who the new officers will be for the coming year, and were asked for suggestions for the group?s June outing. The next meeting will be at the home of Maurine Roberts, with Jane Fehr as co-hostess, on April 24. Janet Peterson confirmed everyone?s address and telephone number. The meeting was adjourned.

Marilyn Whitenack gave the program on Westmoreland Glassware. Westmoreland grew out of the Specialty Glass Co. in the late 1880s in Ohio. During World War I, the specialty was candy dishes. The Westmoreland Glass Co. reorganized in 1937 and started making the white milk glass pieces, especially the Hen on Nest. The paneled grape design was the most popular piece, with other designs as the beaded grape, old quilt, rose and bow. From 1920 to 1950, other colors were added, such as a milky white hue, amber, blue, pink and brown. In 1981, ownership was purchased by Dave Grossman, but it closed in 1984, nearly 100 years from the time it started. Molds were sold at that time to other companies. A lot of covered candy dishes, bowls, sugar/creamers, toothpick holders, candle holders, baskets and plates with figures were produced. Marilyn passed around a number of pieces of Westmoreland milk glass that she had. Maurine also showed some pieces that she owned.

Refreshments were served by Vicki Ealy. Everyone had an enjoyable afternoon.