The Daughters of the American Revolution
was founded on October 11, 1890, when 18 women and 4 men met in Washington,
D.C. to create a society of women to honor and continue the legacy of those
who fought in the American Revolution. Although there was already a
like-minded society, women were not eligible to join that organization.
From the very inception, the mission of this determined group was to promote
historic preservation, education and patriotism. Caroline Scott
Harrison, wife of President Benjamin Harrison said, "The objects and aim of
the Society is to keep first in the minds of the coming generations the
struggles of the founders of this nation - make them familiar with American
History." That same mission continues to be the focus of today's DAR and
all of its chapters.
The National Society
has almost 170,000
members with 3,000 chapters in all 50 states and Washington, D.C. There
are international chapters in Australia, Bahamas, Bermuda, Canada, France,
Germany, Japan, Mexico, Spain, and the United Kingdom. The DAR
Headquarters complex occupies an entire city block near the White House and
includes three adjoining buildings; two of which are Registered National
Historic Landmarks. They are the Memorial Continental Hall, Constitution
Hall and the Administration Building.
The DAR has one of the largest
genealogical research centers in the United States. It contains a
specialized collection of American genealogical and historical manuscripts and
publications. In addition, the DAR Museum, which is accredited by the
American Association of Museums, has 31 period rooms as well as
permanent and changing exhibits which showcase American furnishings and
decorative arts prior to 1830. The Americana Room houses a collection of
early American manuscripts and imprints.
When you join the DAR, you can take
personal pride in the fact that you have joined a volunteer organization
originally started by the niece of our first President, George
Washington! Any woman 18 years or older, regardless of race, religion,
or ethnic background, who can prove lineal descent from a patriot of the
American Revolution is eligible for
membership.
The DAR is an excellent opportunity for
women to join with thousands of other dedicated, patriotic women who
help veterans, preserve historic buildings and events, participate in
community activities, promote higher education, and provide support and
encouragement to America's troops throughout the world. National
membership has included such honorable members as First Ladies Caroline Scott
Harrison (President Benjamin Harrison), Edith Carow Roosevelt (President Teddy
Roosevelt), Florence Kling Harding (President Warren Harding), Mamie Doud
Eisenhower (President Dwight D. Eisenhower), Rosalyn Carter (President Jimmy
Carter), Nancy Davis Reagan (President Ronald Reagan), and Barbara Pierce Bush
(President George W. Bush). There are many noted journalists, authors,
Congresswomen, actors, sculptors, doctors, and military leaders.
There are
many ways to learn about DAR membership. Follow the links to the
national and
state organizations or contact
the
Elizabeth Denton English Chapter
directly.
We hope you will find a common bond with the DAR and join
us as a member.
