Featured Project: Daughters of the American Revolution

On October 11, 1890, the Daughters of the American Revolution was founded. The non-profit organization and genealogical scoeity welcomes women who are directly descended from Patriots who served in the American Revolutionary War. The group works to promote historic preservation, education and patriotism.

Check out these fast facts about the founding of the Daughters of the American Revolution:

1. It emerged during a time of renewed passion and interest in the early days of American history.

Image: Library of Congress

In 1889, the country celebrated the 100th anniversary of George Washington’s inauguration. Large parades marked the occasion, which also used visuals and symbolism to express the nation’s patriotism on a greater scale than ever before. New patriotic and preservation societies began to spring up, including the Sons of the Revolution. However, when the society refused to allow women into their group, a small group of women decided to band together to form a society of their own. The Daughters of the American Revolution was founded to perpetuate the memory of ancestors who fought in America’s struggle for independence.

2. An article by Mary Smith Lockwood helped bring attention to the issue.

After the Sons of the American Revolution refused to admit women into their group, Lockwood published the story of Hannah White Arnett, a patriot who prevented a group of men in Elizabethtown, New Jersey from proclaiming their loyalty to the British in exchange for the protection of their life and property. William O. McDowell, a great grandson of Arnett, then published an article in the Washington Post offering help to form a society to be known as the Daughters of the American Revolution. He was also one of the founders of the Sons of the Revolution.

3. Eugenia Washington, the second great niece of George Washington, was one of the society’s co-founders.

In addition to Mary Smith Lockwood and Eugenia Washington, other co-founders of the Daughters of the American Revolution were Ellen Hardin Walworth and Mary Desha.

4. The first DAR chapter meeting took place on October 11, 1890 at the home of Mary Smith Lockwood.

At the first meeting, there were 18 women in attendance and four members of the Sons of the American Revolution advisory board, including William O. McDowell.

5. Since its founding, the DAR has admitted over 950,000 members.

Are you a member of DAR? You can check out the Daughters of the American Revolution genealogy projects on Geni to collaborate with other members and help others find and connect to their American Revolutionary ancestors. Non-members are also welcomed to join. Over 13,000 profiles have also been added to the Daughters of the American Revolution – Patriots project.

Do you have ancestors who fought in the American Revolutionary War?