Queen of the Month: Stitching Sisterhood, Style, and Joy

Happy Red Hatters – Oshawa, Ontario, Canada

Queen Eleanor Rowlandson has built a life rooted in connection, creativity, and the power of sisterhood, values that shine brightly through her leadership of the Happy Red Hatters in Oshawa, Ontario.

Born and raised in Lindsay, Ontario, Eleanor grew up as the youngest of two girls. Her early years helped shape the resilience and perspective she carries today. After graduating high school, she began an apprenticeship as a hairstylist, but quickly realized that path was not where she was meant to be. Instead, she followed her own direction: one that would ultimately lead to a fulfilling and diverse career.

Eleanor spent her professional life with Bell Canada, working across multiple departments. She began in operator services, fondly recalling the days of dialing zero, and later advanced to the executive floor, where she served as a secretary and receptionist. Her career reflects both adaptability and dedication, qualities she continues to bring into her role as a Queen.

At home, Eleanor enjoys a rich and meaningful personal life. She is happily married to her supportive husband, whom she met through a mutual friend. Together, they have built a life centered on love, laughter, and family. Some of her most treasured moments are spent with her granddaughters, whom she describes as the highlight of her days.

Her introduction to the Red Hat Society came in the early 2000s through her sister-in-law, who was part of a chapter in Florida. Inspired by what she experienced, Eleanor embraced the spirit of RHS wholeheartedly. After attending her first event in 2004, where her reaction was a delighted “WOW, that’s a lot of red and purple!”. She quickly launched her own chapter in Oshawa. Today, she continues to lead with that same enthusiasm and joy.

For Queen Eleanor, the heart of the Red Hat Society lies in bringing women together. She believes deeply in the importance of friendship, fun, and genuine connection. Through her leadership, she creates opportunities for women to step away from daily responsibilities and fully embrace joy, laughter, and companionship.

Her passion for planning events reflects this mission. Whether organizing gatherings for her chapter or attending larger RHS events, Eleanor thrives on creating memorable experiences. One of her most unforgettable moments was attending the 2011 New Orleans Convention, where over 1,000 women filled the city with vibrant energy, color, and celebration. She continues to attend conventions whenever possible and takes pride in the spectacular events hosted by her own chapter in Oshawa.

Outside of RHS, Eleanor enjoys quilting and reading, with a particular love for fiction and romance novels. These hobbies reflect her appreciation for storytelling, creativity, and quiet moments of reflection and balancing the lively energy she brings to her Red Hat community.

When asked what inspires her most, Eleanor shares a simple yet powerful belief: women need women in their lives. She encourages members to embrace the joy of wearing their red and purple, to step out, be social, and celebrate life regardless of life’s challenges.

Her guiding philosophy is rooted in positivity and respect: “It is what it is. Respect each other. Enjoy the companionship of our sisterhood.”

Through her leadership, Queen Eleanor Rowlandson exemplifies what it means to be a Red Hat Queen, bringing women together, creating lasting memories, and reminding us all of the magic found in friendship and shared joy.