06/13/2026
Today's takes us across the historic truss bridge at Oconee Hill Cemetery to the grave of Ethel Jane Jackson.
Ethel was born in Georgia to David and Berta Jackson on October 14, 1893. In adulthood, she got involved with the Order of the Eastern Star (OES). The OES is a deeply symbolic women’s fraternal organization with strong ties to Freemasonry. Founded in the mid-19th century, it incorporates allegorical teachings inspired by biblical heroines, guiding members toward a life of virtue, faith, and service.
A June 1932 issue of the Athens Banner-Herald announced a "lovely reception for Miss Ethel Jackson" that would be hosted by Salonia Chapter No. 227, the Athens chapter of the OES. This reception was held at the Georgian Hotel on June 17, 1932, in honor of Ethel, Worthy Grand Matron, and Harry O. Garrett, Worthy Grand Patron. As the Worthy Grand Matron, Ethel would have led the state or regional Grand Chapter. Her duties would have included presiding over chapter meetings, appointing district deputies and committees, conducting official visits across her jurisdiction, leading her chapter’s philanthropic endeavors, and overseeing ritualistic ceremonies such as initiations.
The front of Ethel's gravestone prominently features the OES emblem, a five-pointed star loaded with symbolism. Each point of the star features a different symbol: a veiled sword (top right), a sheaf of barley (center right), a crown and sceptre (bottom), a broken column (center left), and a chalice or "golden cup" (top left). In most instances, this emblem is presented in color, and each color in the star has its own significance (see images 3-8). The letters F.A.T.A.L. surrounding the central open Bible on the altar stand for "Fairest Among Thousands, Altogether Lovely," a reference to the Song of Solomon.
