Murray B. Jones *

Illustrious Sir Murray B. Jones

Potentate - 1930

The depression was upon us when Murray B. Jones assumed the helm as Potentate in 1930. But despite the fact that money was hard to come by, all of the usual Temple events were held, and activities for the membership prevailed throughout the year. In the words of Potentate Jones, “the Temple is in excellent financial condition, but with no money to squander.”

Gross receipts from the 1930 Crippled Children’s Ball were over $20,000. A card party attended by 600 nobles and ladies, and a pilgrimage to Wharton and New Gulf with the uniformed units brought in over $1,000 for the Crippled Children’s Clinic. A watermelon party at Sylvan Beach attracted over 800 nobles and ladies.

The most outstanding social event of the year was a cruise on the ship channel on two consecutive nights in October. Favored with ideal weather and beautiful moonlight, 1500 nobles and ladies enjoyed entertainment and dancing aboard the brilliantly lighted and gaily decorated Showboat.

The 15th Anniversary celebration was held on November 25th at the picturesque Kensington Dance Hall which was converted, on this occasion, into what was known as, “Slippery Gulch.” A western theme prevailed for more than 750 guests.