Organizational History
The Native Daughters of the Golden West is an organization of California born women dedicated to the preservation of California history and the social and cultural development of their state. They support a variety of special projects such as the identification and creation of state historic monuments, restoration of the Missions, children's welfare, educational scholarships, environmental issues, and the Roster of California Pioneers.
Santa Cruz Parlor no.26 was formed on February 28, 1888 when a group of pioneer women from town were called to order by Mrs. C. William. At the meeting they decided to form a chapter and elected the first slate of officers. They were President, Anne Helmuke; 1st Vice President, May Baldwin; 2nd Vice President, Ada Bennett; 3rd Vice President, Jennie Chace; Recording Secretary, Mary E. Morgan; Financial Secretary, Daisy Longley; Treasurer, Pearl McKinney; Marshall, Stela Finkeldey; Trustees, Bessie Haslam, Alice Calverwell, and Minnie Chace. The following week, on March 6, 1888, the initial group decided that their Parlor would be beneficial as well as social in character.
From the guide to the Native Daughters of the Golden West. Santa Cruz Parlor no.26 records, 1888-1997, (University of California, Santa Cruz. University Library. Special Collections and Archives)
