Photo submitted to the Times Observer by Robin Anderson Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie members are, back row, from left, Andy Jones (President), Dave Moore (Trustee), Sean Mason (Trustee), Duane Anderson Jr. (Past Worthy President), Kevin Burton (Conductor); Front: Robin Anderson (Secretary), Ashley Christey (Aeries Manager), Betty Burton (Inside Guard). Missing: Brian Benton (Treasurer), Andy Benson (Trustee).

For more than a century, the second Sunday in May has been a day to honor mothers everywhere, and the Fraternal Order of Eagles played a significant role in helping it become a nationally recognized holiday.

The Conewango Fraternal Order of Eagles 313 will be hosting a Mother’s Day buffet to honor those they have achieved recognition for. The brunch will be Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., featuring various foods and a Mom-osa bar. Mothers attending the buffet will be entered into a drawing for a beautiful hanging basket.

Reservations are required and can be made by calling the Eagles Club at 814-726-1172.

On Feb. 7, 1904, the Fraternal Order of Eagles Grand Worthy President Frank E. Hering made a public plea to recognize mothers everywhere. He found inspiration for the holiday when he entered a colleague’s classroom, where students prepared postcards to send home to their mothers. Hering helped promote the holiday through the Fraternal Organization of Eagles, joined by Anna Marie Jarvis, Ann Jarvis’ daughter, who continued her mother’s work advocating for a memorial day for mothers. A decade later, President Woodrow Wilson signed a proclamation making the first Mother’s Day a reality on May 10, 1914. The achievement remains one of the most significant milestones in the history of the Fraternal Order of Eagles organization.

In addition to their advocacy for celebrating mothers, the Fraternal Order of Eagles also takes pride in living its motto, “People helping people.” It is a charitable organization that actively supports the community.

The organization has many fundraisers and events planned in the coming months, all aimed at making a positive difference in the lives of those in need. Residents interested in becoming a member, applications are provided at the Conewango FOE Aerie at 2101 Pennsylvania Avenue E., Warren.