Beaumont Honors Eloise Milam and the Melody Maids

with Proclamation

In a heartfelt ceremony at City Hall, Mayor Roy West officially declared January 17 as 'Eloise Milam and Melody Maids Day' in Beaumont, paying tribute to a group that profoundly impacted both local culture and the morale of U.S. troops worldwide.

From 1942 to 1972, the Melody Maids, under the leadership of music teacher Eloise Milam, brought joy and comfort to soldiers stationed across the globe. These young women, all dressed in white, became symbols of hope and home for many during times of conflict.

Their story is now the subject of a new documentary, 'The Melody Maids Movie,' directed by Kai Jai Conner, whose mother, Glenda Walters Brown, was a member of the troupe from 1951 to 1958. The film offers an intimate look into the lives of these performers through historic photos and personal narratives.

Scheduled for Saturday, January 17, the documentary will be screened at the historic Jefferson Theatre with showings at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in a Q&A session with former Melody Maids and enjoy a live performance of songs featured in the film.

Reflecting on the group's legacy, Conner remarked, "They presented Beaumont to the world, and they were exceptional. I'm so honored to be able to share this story."

Milam was renowned for her strict yet nurturing guidance, encapsulated in what many referred to as 'Eloise's Bible,' which emphasized 'morals, manners, and music.' This philosophy not only shaped the performers but also prepared them for future roles as educators, leaders, and public servants.

Former Melody Maid Becky Mason shared, "Eloise Milam was a firecracker. She was a self-thinker, fierce, and she taught me to make the most of every day."

The proclamation and upcoming film screening serve as a testament to the enduring influence of the Melody Maids and their founder. As Conner aptly put it, "To me, Eloise is such a pebble in a pool, and that's why this story needs to get seen beyond Beaumont."

Tickets for the screenings are available through the Beaumont Civic Center box office and online platforms. The event is presented by the Greater Beaumont Chamber of Commerce, which recognizes the Melody Maids as an essential part of the city's history and identity.

For more information on the documentary and its upcoming screenings, visit the official website of 'The Melody Maids Movie.'