Hello all, Sheila's answers are very good if you are looking for a man who was a Mason. However, if you are looking for data on a woman or man who belonged to the Order of the Eastern Star you will need to contact the Grand Chapter of the State in which she/he was a member. If you happen know what Lodge or Chapter your ancester belonged to you can write to the Secretary of that body provided it is still extant. My own Chapter, Oklahoma Chapter #10 merged a few years ago with Fidelis Chapter # 426, thus becoming Fidelis - Oklahoma #426. These Chapters are in Oklahoma City. [I still belong there for sentimental reasons.] At that time the Secretary of the newly merged Chapter was able to provide me with information concerning my late mother's initiation. Oklahoma #10 conferred the degrees for Colgate Chapter since mother was living in that area at the time. Do not expect any genealogical information from a Masonic Lodge as a man did not need to have a relative who belonged. He petioned of his own free will and needed to be at least 21 years of age. In most jurisdictions a woman needed to be a daughter, wife, mother, sister, or widow of a Freemason in order to petition OES for membership. My father was a 50+ year member as was my mother. I have belonged for 55 years, and I was also a Rainbow Girl. Mary Alice in Los Angeles