Questers State Days in Mason City

Members of the Log Cabin Questers met on March 8, 2019, at the home of Sheila Gerot. The meeting was opened by President Gerot. The treasurer's report was given and approved. The group decided to make a donation to the State Preservation and Restoration Fund as suggested by the State President. The group will continue to look for local projects in which to support. Election was held and new officers were installed.

Dorothy Koehler reported that the UP Home presented a Historical Pageant at the home on March 20 at 2 p.m. in the dining room which was open to the public. It was also noted that the Quester State Days are April 12-13 in Mason City.

Sheila Gerot presented a program on Purses-specifically mesh and beaded purses. Mesh purses were originally made in the 17th century using gun metal. They were very often made in convents and monasteries. German silver was used in the 19th century. The purses were hung on brooches attached to a woven waistline. Whiting and Davis was the best known manufacturer. Once an automated machine was invented in the early 1900s, mesh purses became available to the general public. Sears also produced them. The oldest beaded purses were in Ancient Egypt, 2500 B.C. They were made of glass beads and hung from a belt or slung over the shoulder and were used by men and women. In Victorian culture, there were patterns for beaded purses and were considered part of a homemaker's skills. In the 1800s metal frames supported the glass beads. They were popular through the 1900s also, taking nearly a year to complete. Beads from France could cost up to $100. Beading a purse is a labor of love.

Refreshments and conversation were enjoyed following the meeting.