DBE IN LOUISIANA 

Elizabethan Chapter, the charter chapter of DBE in Louisiana was founded in 1959.

This was quickly followed by Camelot chapter.

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The two chapters quickly started the tradition of Afternoon Tea fundraisers, many held at the Audubon Tea Room until in 1976 it burned down and a new venue had to be found.

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Mr. James J. Coleman, OBE, was appointed Honorary British Consul for Louisiana in 1976. He was a great friend of DBE and we appreciate his continued support of our fundraising efforts.

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Being a leading port of entry, New Orleans hosted many Royal navy and Merchant ships, the most memorable of which was the visit in 1975 of the Royal Yacht Britannia.

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During the mid-1980s, Louisiana was honored to host the 22nd National Administration of the DBE, under the inspired leadership of National President, Mrs. Wendy Roberts, MBE.  During the 34th Administration, 2018-2022, Louisiana member Betty Calzada served as National 3rd Vice President.

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DBE in Louisiana has sent the majority of its fundraising proceeds to Mountbatten House, and has donated their time to many other philanthropic projects.  In 1990 they provided refreshments for the wheelchair athletes; Elizabethan chapter volunteered at Kingsley House for decades; Godolphin  chapter organized an annual St. Patrick's Day party for the elderly residents of St. Anna's;  and much more.

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DBE has participated in many ways in the visits to New Orleans of many prominent people:  Prince Philip in 1966,  Lady Soames to unveil the statue of Sir Winston Churchill i n 1977, Princess Anne in 1984, Princess Margaret in 1986, Margaret Thatcher in 1994, and many, many more.

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Members of Louisiana DBE are proud of their half century of service.  We are enriched by the camaraderie, and grateful for the many meaningful friendships that we know will endure.

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