Buffalo Chapter History

1945

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The first Buffalo Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated began in 1945. The Buffalo Chapter had the distinction of having Edna Seay serve as National Secretary-Treasurer, National Vice-President, and in 1950, National President of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated.  

 

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1972
 

After several years of inactivity, in November 1972, through the efforts of Dr. Carrie Johnson, a group of parents sought to reestablish a Jack and Jill chapter. Under the sponsorship of the Rochester Chapter, the Buffalo Group became a provisional chapter using the name “Pathfinders” with Maxine Baskerville serving as president.

 

1974
 

The Pathfinders was established as an official chapter in November 1974. Dr. Pearl Boschulte, National President at the time, officiated at the initiation ceremony. Gertrude Burke was elected to serve as the first president of the newly formed Buffalo Chapter.  

In the following year, the chapter began the rebuilding process. That winter, the group had their first family gathering.  They attended a weekend camping trip at YMCA Beaver Hollow in Java Center, New York. Forty families participated despite a severe snowstorm.  

 

In June of the following year, Gertrude Burke was installed as the president of the chapter for a second term. The other officers were Connie Coles, Vice President; Lorna Arrington, Recording Secretary; Martha Williams, Corresponding Secretary; Mamie Johnson, Financial Secretary; Sharon Holmes, Treasurer and Marie Caldwell, Parliamentarian. The installation ceremony concluded with an elegant meal that was shared with the husbands of the newly installed members. Today, the Buffalo Chapter remains active and strong.