The Order of the Eastern Star is a Masonic appendant body open to both men and women. It was established in 1850 by lawyer and educator Rob Morris a noted Freemason. The order is based on some teachings from the Bible but is open to people of all religious beliefs. It has approximately 10,000 chapters in twenty countries and approximately 500,000 members under its General Grand Chapter.

Members of the Order of the Eastern Star are aged 18 and older; men must be Master Masons and women must have specific relationships with Masons.

Non-Prince Hall Eastern Star Chapters aren’t known for their wearing of fezzes. In fact, this might be one of the very few that we’ve ever seen. The picture makes the fez look like it is in much better condition than it actually is. It is quite soiled and pitted, with a couple of moth holes. But, because of its unusual nature, we wanted it for the collection. The tassel is also worn, being yellow, but missing the top knot. The fez states that it came from Providence Chapter No. 1 Patrol, most likely of Rhode Island. The fez likely dates from the 19-teens to the 1930’s.