The Princess Louise Chapter was founded in 1910, with the Motto “Forget Not”. The Chapter was named after Queen Victoria’s sixth child (fourth daughter), Princess Louise, Duchess of Argyll, who was seen as an unconventional royal. She became an able sculptor and artist, a supporter of the feminist movement, had an obsession with physical fitness, and was considered the Queen’s most beautiful daughter. Her husband became Governor General of Canada.

Starting in 1914, during the WWI years the Chapter’s numbers grew to 76 members and over $5,000 worth of funds and approximately 60 shipments of goods were donated for the benefit of the troops. Weekly sewing meetings were held at St. Michael’s Parish House at Amsterdam Avenue and 99th Street through the courtesy of Mrs. Thomas McCandless, wife of the Rector and devoted member of the Chapter. At that time the Imperial Order of the Daughters of the British Empire was the only organization that sent any hospital supplies, etc. from here.

Social events during the early years included an enactment of scenes from “Macbeth” and “The School for Scandal,” a concert of old English songs, and a talk on the Royal Navy. Donations were made for a “lady in distressed circumstances.” The relief effort for the troops was continued during WWII, in conjunction with the War Relief Society and Bundles for Britain. Fundraising continued with 3-day Bazaars at the Biltmore Hotel where Princess Louise established the White Elephant Table, as well as through bridge teas, dues, and special donations. In 1965 the Bazaar was ceremonially opened by Princess Margaret. The Commonwealth Ball given for H.M. Queen Elizabeth II in 1957 was attended by members of DBE, including a current chapter member.

Since the beginning, the Chapter has also had a strong connection to St. James’ Church. The Rt. Rev. Frederick Courtney was Rector from 1904 to 1915. A gifted speaker, he maintained strong ties between St. James’ and the British Community in New York. On the occasion of the death of King Edward VII in 1910, there was a special memorial service at St. James’ that was attended by members of St. George’s Society, St. David’s Society, and the DBE. Over the years and up to the present day many chapter members have attended St. James’ Church.

It was Bishop Courtney who officially opened the Victoria Home for elderly British ladies in 1915, which was largely furnished through a donation from founding DBE member and chapter member, Amy Rayson. When a larger home was needed, the McAlpin Estate in Ossining was purchased and the new home was opened in 1928. The Chapters were asked to assume responsibility for furnishing rooms in the Home and Princess Louise chose the sitting room. They also furnished the Princess Louise Bedroom and used signed photographs provided by Princess Louise herself, when she was aged 90. The Chapter held May chapter meetings at Victoria Home for quite a few years and hosted sherry parties for the residents.