Hampton Court chapter of DBE was formed in the north Dallas area in 1981. At the time, this area was growing very quickly and there were a lot of Expats looking for friendship. There were eventually three chapters in the north Dallas area: United Kingdom chapter (which joined with Hampton Court in 2023), and the Boudicca chapter which was also based in North Dallas, but disbanded sometime in 2010. 

So, at the moment Hampton Court chapter is the only chapter of DBE in the north Dallas area. We have also had our highs and lows of membership. From a high of 30 members and meeting in a hall to accommodate everybody, to six members, then we joined with United Kingdom chapter to bring our membership up to 12. At the moment we have 11 members. 

Over the years, we have done various fundraisers. From bangers and mash evenings, barbecues, and afternoon teas. However, for many years are strongest fundraiser was a garage sale held at the home of our then-Regent Liz Natale. We gathered goods from friends, family, neighbors, acquaintances coworkers, and anybody who would donate goods.

We spent many a hot and dirty Sunday afternoon sorting and pricing all the goods, it was hard work but built camaraderie. We did these garage sales for over 10 years. And raised a lot of money for Mountbatten House. Our record was nearly $2,000! Unfortunately, old age and lack of space caught up with us. Last year we helped with an afternoon tea at the British Flying School in Terrell Texas. We were awarded part of the proceeds from this event. 

At our meeting, we hold a chapter raffle, and this helps with fundraising. All members enjoy the friendships and the feel of family and home that they have experienced through their membership with DBE. We enjoy raising funds for Mountbatten House and talking over afternoon tea about our memories and lives. 

"Not ourselves but the cause" 
"Togetherness through caring"