Because there was no AIS affiliated club east of the Chesapeake Bay, AIS member Pat McNeal (known locally as "The Iris Lady" for selling irises at the Easton, MD Farmers' Market for the previous seven years) called a meeting of local iris enthusiasts on Oct. 11, 2013 for the purpose of forming a new AIS affiliated club. The meeting was held at the Maryland Cooperative Extension Office in Easton. Seven people attended and the name Bayshore Iris Society (BIS), suggested by Mary Beth Webb, was unanimously adopted. Officers chosen were Cindy Outen, President; Pat McNeal, Vice President; and Mary Beth Webb, Secretary/Treasurer.

Bylaws were adopted at the November 2013 meeting, as was a logo designed by Pat McNeal, and plans were made to have a spring show; Pat McNeal was appointed Show Chair. Most members were totally new to showing irises, and most just wanted to learn more about the “Rainbow Flower” and how to grow it. Having a chance to show them off was an added bonus!

Until Covid-19 hit and disrupted the country, BIS held a Spring Show every year. It was no easy feat for a financially-strapped, new club with only Pat McNeal having any experience showing irises, and NO ONE with experience putting on a show! Nevertheless, the show was a success and a great learning experience for everyone involved. Best of Show winners were: 2014 – “Chatter;” 2015 – “Jesse’s Song;” 2016 – “Jesse’s Song;” 2017 – Conjuration;” 2018 – “Virginia Lyle;” 2019 – “Conjuration.”