Katherine Gerner Eberlein was a founding member of the Ladies Aid society associated with St. James Lutheran Church in Shawano, Wisconsin. She served as the first secretary and hosted meetings at her house. A history of the society includes the following anecdote about her and her youngest son, Michael Gustave Eberlein.

“Rev. Nickol was our pastor, and he played the organ and read a text from the bible. At one meeting, which was held at the home of Mrs. Eberlein, Rev. Nikol had prepared a constitution, and presented it to the group. It proved to be quite detailed. Mrs. Eberlein spoke up and said, “My, that is too long! Just read a paragraph, and then continue at future meetings.” Rev. Nickol agreed. This proves that people were impatient in 1896, as well as in 1956.

Children haven’t changed in 60 years. Michael Eberlein was a lad of about 15, and came home from school. He peeked around and saw all the ladies. His mother said, “Michael, you come right in here and shake hands with everyone.” Of course, Michael complied.”

Source: Ida Brei, “History of St. James Ladies Aid, 1896-1956,” typed manuscript in the “St. James Lutheran Church” folder, Shawano (City) Pamphlet Files, Shawano Public Library, accessed 18 July 2013.