Smith McMillan DAR Chapter Celebrates Golden Legacy at 50th Anniversary Luncheon
To mark this milestone year, elegant invitations were issued to members and guests in honor of the Golden Legacy 50th Anniversary Celebration of the Smith McMillan Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution. This commemorative event was held at 11:30 a.m. on April 18, within the storied walls of La Grange’s Historic Casino Hall.
The anniversary committee, composed of Cathleen Tutt, Sarah Mabry, Emily Shaw, Jackie Head, Kathy Schatte, and Gina Minzenmeyer, worked in partnership with Regent, Carolyn Caflisch. The festive luncheon featured a beautifully plated meal for more than 80 guests provided by Rosemary’s Catering of Austin, whose service and presentation added a gracious touch to the celebration.
As guests entered from the back staircase, they were greeted by champagne tables and a welcoming check in area where attendees signed the 50th Anniversary Historic Book, marking their place in the Chapter’s legacy. After signing the guest book, guests were guided to their assigned tables to ensure smooth and efficient meal service.
During the Social, attendees enjoyed an extensive poster display highlighting the Chapter’s activities and accomplishments over the past five decades. Arranged on easels around the room, these posters were later donated to the Fayette County Library by Sarah Mabry, our Chapter Charter Regent, to help document and preserve the history of our 50 years.
The stage was adorned with tea stained patriotic bunting, creating a charming, historic ambiance. Each table showcased a large, elegant floral arrangement—designed by Bloom Bar, Kayli Steger Head—which were later given away as special keepsakes. Place cards were thoughtfully set at each seat, adding to the sense of occasion. Throughout the Social and during lunch, Taylor Kroff, talented pianist, accomplished composer and producer from Round Rock, Texas, provided a lovely backdrop of Americana music, enhancing the warm and celebratory atmosphere of the day.
Regent Carolyn Caflisch welcomed attendees with opening remarks, recognized the Chapter Officers, and all rose for the DAR Opening Ritual of pledges to the American and Texas Flags, Prayer, the National Anthem accompanied by Sherry Hebert on the violin. Regent Caflisch recognized special guests in attendance which included Fayette County Sheriff, Keith Korenek and wife, Kathryn; Fayetteville Mayor, Mike Stroup and wife, Julie; Mayor of Round Top, Judith Vincent; Fayette County 250th Chairman, Larry Jackson and wife, Susie; Neale Rabensburg, Curator of the Round Top Historical Society Museum; and Reverend Kenneth “Ken” Kesselus, Pastor, St. James Episcopal Church.
Vice Regent Kathy Schatte introduced guest speaker, GeorgiAnne Uribe Brochstein who has served in many Texas DAR State Officer Roles and is now Vice Chair for Spanish Specialty Research and State Chair for E Pluribus Unum. Among her many endeavors, Georgi Ann’s program highlighted the work of the E Pluribus Unum Committee of DAR which is dedicated to bringing awareness of the selfless dedication of all cultures and races as these Americans should be honored and recognized for their contributions to creating our great nation and noted that some have become members of Daughters of the American Revolution. Following her presentation, Mrs. Brochstein was presented with a gift basket and special thanks for her dedication and accomplishments by Kathy Schatte.
Regent Carolyn Caflisch asked Reverend Ken Kesselus for a blessing over our meal and lunch was served. Following the meal, the meeting resumed as Regent Carolyn Caflisch read a note of congratulations on our 50th Anniversary from National DAR President General Ginnie Sebastian Storage.
Four of the Organizing Daughters, or Charter Members in attendance were recognized— Organizing Regent, Sarah Mabry, Kay Marburger, Mary Kendall Dawson and Sally Bohot.
Regent Carolyn then recognized Sally Reynolds for her 50 years of dedicated service, a milestone acknowledged with a special award from the State Regent. In celebration of her remarkable commitment, the Smith McMillan Chapter proudly provided her lifetime membership in the National 50+ Club. While the Texas Society does not maintain its own 50+ Club, it faithfully tracks all Texas members who have achieved this National distinction, including Sally Bohot, Kay Marburger, and Sarah Mabry.
Honorary Regent, Cathleen Tutt presented the list of members marking 15 or more years of service. Certificates were distributed after the meeting. To express the Chapter’s gratitude, Sally Reynolds and Sarah Mabry honored Judge Dan Mueller with the Chapter’s Appreciation Award and Medal for the guidance and support he has provided toward both our past achievements and our continuing plans for America250.
Sarah Mabry offered a few words reflecting on the Chapter’s 50 years of service and history. Charter member, Kay Marburger’s award-winning quilt personally designed as a tribute to the Marquis de Lafayette, the namesake of Fayette County was featured. Awarded First Place at both the Texas DAR and National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, it was not only exhibited as the First Place Quilt in Lafayette, Louisiana but also went on tour throughout France.
Regent Carolyn Caflisch’s recognized the dedicated work of all involved in the chapter over the years, the luncheon committee, and the hostesses and musician, as well as a thanks to all in attendance. The Closing Benediction was then given by Chaplain, Sherry Hebert.