Harry H. Ford *

Illustrious Sir Harry H. Ford

Potentate - 1931

The new year of 1931 brought little change in the economic situation of the country and of Arabia Temple. Potentate Harry H. Ford, however, decreed that all Temple projects and activities would be enthusiastically maintained, and they were. The annual events (the Crippled Children’s Ball, Ceremonials, Card Party, Mother’s Day program, Orphans Picnic, Wild West Party at Kensington Hall, and the All Star High School Football Game) were held on schedule. In addition, a Christmas Party for the children was held on December 23 at the Mosque.

The Band performed as escort for Governor-elect R. S. Sterling at his inauguration in Austin on January 20, 1931. And, in keeping with the custom established several years ago, they played the last concert of the season at Miller Memorial Theatre in Hermann Park.

Imperial Potentate E. A. Fletcher was entertained on his official visit with a boat trip to San Jacinto Inn for lunch and with a dinner/dance in the evening at the Rice Hotel. Later in the year, Potentate Ford and the Divan attended the Imperial meetings in Cleveland, Ohio.

Cooperating with local officials, Arabia Temple collected over two tons of tin foil which was sold to provide clothing for the city’s underprivileged children to attend school. Used razor blades were also collected for this activity. A sign of the times was indicated by the following Rice Hotel ad that appeared in The Arabian:

“Rooms with bath $2.00 and $3.00.”