Ashley-Reavis, representing the ancestors of the organizing regent, Mrs. T. J. Gist, was sent to the national society for approval. A change was recommended from the name suggested to Reavis-Ashley and the chapter accepted it. Lord Ashley, who for political reasons, came to this country, was a second son, and took his mother's maiden name, this name is still recognized throughout the country as the family name. Reavis-Ashley chapter was organized January 9, 1912, with a membership of twenty-one, nine of who were resident members. Its growth was slow during the first few years. Scarcely was the chapter on its feet when WWI broke out. With all the other organizations active in the war effort, the members helped with relief work and other activities concerning the war.
The chapter charter was framed and placed in the Lydia Brunn city library. The chapter was very active in contributing to the different funds in both the state of Nebraska and the Society in Washington. Socially the chapter has always been quite active. It has created local interest in genealogical research and several members are active in the Tri-County Genealogical Society, the Brownsville Historical Society, the Nemaha County, KS Historical Society, and help in their local communities. The Chapter participates in the American History Essay contest, and honors the winners, their families and teachers with a tea in February. Several members read 'spots' for the local radio stations and they are played on the four stations during February.
We have a number of localities represented: Falls City, Humboldt, Steinauer, and Stella, NE; Seneca and Bern, KS; and Forest City, MO. Also, there are a total of nine states including our non-resident members. Our small chapter is very active in the state, with two past State Registrars, a past State Corresponding Secretary, and six members who are or have been state chairman.
