Kathleen Loftman

Wearing “widow’s weeds”, Kathleen Loftman presented a captivating program on “Mourning and Mourning Jewelry” at the May luncheon meeting of the De Anza Chapter. Loftman wore a Victorian garment of widow weeds made from 17 yards of silk crepe, a black silk satin petticoat and bustle, and full mourning veil. She also showed a small cap with attached veil for second stage mourning and discretely demonstrated a ‘split pants’ undergarment. The audience had the opportunity to see Loftman’s collection of mourning parasols, including one with a spring hinge so the mourner could screen herself from passersby if she wished, as well as her extensive collection of mourning jewelry.

In keeping with the thought of mourning, the chapter held its annual memorial service for those Daughters who had passed in the past year.  Registrar Kathleen Loftman placed white roses in a vase as Chaplain Joanne Dudek read about deceased members Joan Kirkpatrick, Florence Marr, Doris Repa, former State Regent Kathleen Stowell, and Eloise Street.

Submitted by: Katharine Dixon