M. E. Kurth *

Illustrious Sir M. E. Kurth

Potentate - 1932

“Optimism and not Pessimism should be the watchword of Arabia Temple,” so stated Potentate Melvin E. Kurth in his February 8, 1932 letter to the Nobility. The outlook was not encouraging but it was an election year with promises of better things to come and with this thought in mind, Temple activities got underway.

Various real estate and financial transactions entered into over the years by the Temple were causing problems, but Potentate Kurth’s keen business knowledge laid the groundwork for the future we are now enjoying. Payment of delinquent and current dues was constantly stressed by the Recorder’s office. Temple activities for the membership were, of necessity, limited and it was no longer feasible for the Potentate to take the uniformed units to the Imperial meeting. All ten of the Texas Temples had reported losses in membership.

However, Potentate Kurth instilled enthusiasm among the Nobility. The Crippled Children’s Ball was successful and all of the established annual events were held. A Father and Sons Night and a Ladies Night were held during the year. The families of the Nobles enjoyed the facilities of the Temple while the Nobles attended the Stated Meetings, and then all enjoyed a program and refreshments after the meetings.

Two ceremonials were held at the Mosque with the participation of the Uniformed units. No parades were held. A visitation (by train at $1.75 per person for the round trip) was made to Wharton County’s Crippled Children’s Ball.

On March 16, Imperial Potentate Thomas J. Houston made his official visit to Arabia Temple traveling by chartered plane. He visited the Temple, had lunch with Potentate Kurth at the San Jacinto Inn, and departed for his visit to El Mina Temple in Galveston. Potentate Kurth and members of the Divan attended the Imperial meetings in San Francisco, California in July.