The Virginia View Virginia Daughters of the American Revolution V O L U M E I V, No
The Virginia View Virginia Daughters of the American Revolution V o l u m e I V, No . 1 September 201 6
State Regent’s Message
The Virginia Plan: education and patriotism; design tools and “We the Daughters, many hands… techniques to increase public recognition of DAR's Strive to Preserve the History, Share the Knowledge, and service and contributions to the Nation including Thoroughly Enjoy the Blessings of Liberty.” funding Special Project grants; and further the financial stability of the Society through the promotion of established development programs and prudent investment strategies.
The Service to America Committee, formerly the Celebrate America! Committee, will continue to encourage Daughters in meaningful service within the Society's mission areas. The new Community Classroom Committee seeks to encourage Daughters to volunteer to provide additional support to school children having difficult circumstances at home.
In Virginia, our emphasis will be on the Constitution of the United States of America. There is an apathy
that probably stems from a lack of knowledge of its Dear Virginia Daughters, philosophy and principles, and also from a lack of understanding of how precious, and yet how very Thank you for your overwhelming show of support at fragile, a free society is. For the 2016-2019 State the 125th Continental Congress Installation Regent's Project we will underwrite a conference Ceremony on June 19, 2016. It truly was an amazing room in Claude Moore Hall, at the Center for the and humbling experience! Congratulations to our Constitution at Montpelier, the home of James own Patricia Musick Hatfield for her election as Madison, "Father of the Constitution" at a cost of Librarian General, NSDAR and to Virginia Sebastian $200,000. Please let us all work together and Storage for becoming Vice President General, NSDAR. accomplish this worthwhile goal!
This is an extremely exciting time in Virginia DAR as The Virginia Plan is: "We the Daughters, many we come together to embrace the theme of our new hands...Strive to Preserve the History, Share the President General Ann Turner Dillon..."Moving Knowledge, and Thoroughly Enjoy the Blessings of Forward in Service to America." The goals of the new Liberty." administration are to restore and improve the
NSDAR complex of historic buildings; support Fall Forum is fast approaching and will be held on chapters through membership and community September 15 and 16, 2016 at Hotel Roanoke. We service promotions; advance technological and are looking forward to a fun-filled and productive financial accounting capabilities that serve to event! reinforce the Society's promotion of history,
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State Regent’s Message Continued from Page 1
State Conference will be held also at Hotel Roanoke, on March 24-26, 2017. The 126th Continental Congress will be held on June 28-30, 2017. We hope to see you all at the Virginia Luncheon at the Ronald Reagan Building on June 29, 2017.
Thank you for your support. Together we will accomplish our DAR goals.
Warm Regards, The Surber Executive Committee Judy Virginia DAR State Officers 2016 – 2019 Seated (Left to Right): State Recording Secretary Sherry Judith Joy Surber Edwards (Freedom Hill Chapter), State Vice Regent Rebecca 2263 Shiloh Church Road Rogers (Albemarle Chapter), State Regent Judith Surber (Jack Palmyra, VA 22963-4310 Jouett Chapter), State Chaplain Milly Casey, (William Taylor Chapter), State Corresponding Secretary Pamela Meiring (434) 589-1039 (Williamsburg Chapter);. Standing (Left to Right): State [email protected] Historian Holly Lynne Schmidt (Thomas Nelson Chapter), State Treasurer Cynthia Fein (Lynchburg Chapter), State Organizing Secretary Laurie Nesbitt (Fairfax County Chapter), State Registrar Katherine McClelland (Carter’s Fort Chapter) and State Librarian Nancy Miller (Lynnhaven Parish Chapter).
State Regent’s Project
Claude Moore Hall at Montpelier
By the Authority of the Virginia DAR Executive Committee Rebecca Morgan Rogers, Editor The Virginia View 250 Pantops Mountain Road, Apt. 5202 Charlottesville, VA 22911-8702 [email protected]
Tips From The Editor • Email all submissions to [email protected]. • Articles & pictures can be sent at any time.
• Submit text either as a Word document email attachment or in the body of an email. For more than a decade, the Robert H. Smith Center • Submit pictures as separate attachments using a picture format (jpeg, gif, tif, png, etc.) Do not use for the Constitution has sought to become the formats such as pdf, doc, docx or pub. nation's foremost training center for constitutional • Avoid submitting a formatted document with pictures education at Montpelier, the home of President James embedded in the text. Madison. As a physical and virtual teaching academy, • Consult Virginia DAR Members Only website for details the Center has engaged tens of thousands of or contact State Vice Regent with questions!
September 2016 The Virginia View Page 3 professionals—from all 50 states and more than 90 between power and liberty,", and that is why the nations—in the theory and practice of the United Founders insisted on a rigorous written form. States Constitution. State Regent’s Reception Today, the Center is poised for its next chapter.
Construction has begun on Claude Moore Hall, a Virginia DAR State Regent Judy Surber was honored state-of-the-art $4.7 million building containing on August 6, 2016 at a reception held in her honor by meeting and classroom facilities wired for interactive the Jack Jouett Chapter in the Grand Salon at learning, a media center supporting real-time video Montpelier, home of James and Dolley Madison. Judy interviews and professional content production, and has been a member of the chapter since she moved to offices for Center staff. Montpelier plans to open the this area from New York. facility in November according to The Daily Progress in an article dated August 1, 2016. This facility will Invitees included a surprise visit from her son, Greg contain 6,300 square feet. According to C. Douglas Surber, and his wife Vicki from Texas, as well as Smith, vice president of the Montpelier Foundation, friends from New York, North Carolina and Kentucky. the new building is part of “…a broader campus of Also attending were Honorary State Regents Patricia constitutional learning….” Hatfield (currently Librarian General, NSDAR), Virginia Storage (currently Vice President General, The construction of Claude Moore Hall's virtual NSDAR) Susan Gonchar (Honorary Vice President classrooms and media center will allow the Center to General, NSDAR) Elizabeth Haugh, Ann Hunter, and extend its reach, nationally and internationally, and Bana Caskey. The Sons of the American Revolution take advantage of the larger community of adult (SAR) was represented by Thomas Jefferson Chapter learners, program alumni, and constitutional leaders SAR President McNeir Tilman and a number of his who make up the audience. compatriots. Children of the American Revolution The new building will allow the Center and its (C.A.R.) State President Alex Slaughter attended with partners to create an online community, distribute its her mother, Rebecca (a DAR member.) experience, and initiate its expertise partnerships with peer organizations all over the world.
As Douglas Smith, Director of the Center has said, "What we hope to stimulate are kitchen table conversations, where the public rolls up their sleeves and discusses the Constitution and how the republic was intended to function. That is the value of blending the education and convening power of the Center for the Constitution moving forward." Left to right: Judy, Greg & Vicki Surber
The 2016–2019 State Regent's Project is the Virginia DAR state and district officers, state underwriting of a conference room in Claude Moore committee chairs, and chapter regents enjoyed Hall, Center for the Constitution at Montpelier, home refreshments and a program comprised of musical of James Madison, at a cost of $200,000. selections from members of the Youth Orchestras of Central Virginia and the Virginia State Chorus and James Madison, the Father of the Constitution, said Friends under the direction of Carol Howerton, who "every word of the Constitution decides a question
Page 4 The Virginia View September 2016 wrote written special lyrics to ‘Hello, Dolly’ for the Chickens. occasion. The book is all about Buddy finding friends to play Kat Imhoff, CEO of Montpelier, spoke of the ongoing with him on the farm. It is written and illustrated by work at Montpelier and of their plans for the future. District VI members using vocabulary words from The audience enjoyed a surprise visit from the host the National Lists for grades 1, 2 and 3. of Montpelier, President James Madison. President Madison said a few words of welcome. He was then An excerpt from the book: Then late one sunny invited to cut the cake, the first piece of which he morning in early spring, Mr. Blair’s dark blue farm offered to the State Regent. truck came through the gate. The truck rolled slowly to a stop in front of the walkway to the house. Buddy Jack Jouett Chapter presented Judy with a U. S. Flag raced out onto the porch. He hurried down the steps that had flown over the Capitol in Washington, D.C. as fast as his short legs could carry him, barking on March 16, 2016, the birthday of James Madison. ‘Hello’ as he ran along the path toward the truck. She also was elected Virginia DAR State Regent in The price of the book will be $30. Net proceeds will March 2016. be donated to the State Regent’s Project.
After the program, group pictures were taken on the Our target date for the first copies of the book to be steps of the mansion. Those who wished to do so ready is Fall Forum. were given a tour of the house. Please make checks payable to:
VADAR District VI Treasurer
Send to: Diane Inman, 3715 Skye Court, Earlysville, VA 22936
Caring for our Fellow Daughters Cutting the cake with the President! Our State Regent selected this scripture to encourage us through her administration: “May the God of hope fill you Support the State Regent’s Project by with all joy and peace as you trust in him.” Romans 15:13. Purchasing Buddy and the Chickens May we reflect on this scripture as “We the Daughters, At the District VI annual many hands…Strive to Preserve the History, Share the meeting approval was Knowledge and Thoroughly Enjoy the Blessings of Liberty”. given for the publication
of a children’s book Some Important Information: featuring Judy Surber’s Welsh Corgi, Buddy, Please remember the chapter is responsible for reporting called Buddy and the deaths through e-Membership.
September 2016 The Virginia View Page 5
Preserving Virginia DAR History! The State Chaplain is emailing the Virginia Death Report Each year, the Virginia DAR’s Yearbook and to the Chapter Chaplains. This report must be filled out Proceedings records the history of the Virginia DAR and returned to the State Chaplain as soon as possible. and its chapters. This important publication is the only The State Chaplain can then write a condolence note to published record of the activities of Virginia chapters, the deceased member’s next of kin in a timely manner. district organizations, and the state organization. It is Send Birthday Greetings for members who are over 90. the “go-to” source for information on noteworthy DAR activities throughout the Commonwealth and a list of At chapter meetings, the Chapter Chaplain may assist in awards received and given. Become a more welcoming everyone to the meeting. Her report may knowledgeable Virginia Daughter b y perusing this include illnesses, birthdays and special concerns. She publication! This publication is also submitted to both offers the invocation before the Ritual and grace before the Library of Virginia and the University of Virginia for lunch. posterity, so others can learn of our organization’s great accomplishments. Remember those who cannot attend chapter meetings. The Chapter Chaplain works with other This officer is responsible for compiling and overseeing chapter officers to develop a plan for reaching out to the publication of the Proceedings using content members who are unable to attend meetings. provided by chapter regents, district directors, state chairmen, state club presidents, and state officers. This NSDAR Day of Prayer will be Sunday, October 9, 2016. year, let’s make these reports interesting reading not Virginia DAR Memorial Service will be Friday, March 24, only for today’s DAR member but tomorrow’s as well! 2017, at 2 p.m. at the Hotel Roanoke and Conference Center. The applicable (and firm) deadlines and word limits for
each author’s narrative report are shown below. Please feel free to contact me with any questions you may have. Enjoy yourself and have fun these next three years. Author Word Limit Due Date Milly Inge Casey Chapter Regents 200 February 15, 2017 State Chaplain 28 Franks Cove Lane District Directors 250 March 1, 2017 Gasburg, VA 23857-2120 434.577.2346 State Chairs 200 March 1, 2017 [email protected] State Officers 200 March 1, 2017
Additional instructions and a style sheet will be posted on the Virginia DAR Members’ website later this fall. The Yearbook and Proceedings for 2016 will be mailed by the publisher to recipients in September. Copies will also be available for purchase at Fall Forum and at State Conference.
Together may “we the Daughters, many hands…Strive to Preserve the History” of the Virginia DAR.
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Sherry Edwards in your chapter or organize a commemorative event State Recording Secretary in your community. 804 Great Cumberland Road With a few exceptions, participation in the NH course McLean, VA 22102-1008 is by recommendation only. Each participant: 703-865-8436 [email protected] • Must be a member in good standing • Must be an active participant in DAR, taking part in at least five DAR activities or events— Attracting our Future L e a d e r s ! chapter meetings or chapter service activities; state or National meetings or activities, such Are you interested in serving as a DAR officer—but as state conference or Continental Congress— not quite sure? in the last 12 months • Must have a current subscription to American Chapters can falter for lack of members willing to Spirit magazine (for the Daughters take on leadership roles, especially that of regent. Newsletter) The new NSDAR New Horizons (NH) Course is • Must be nominated by three chapter designed to inform and train active members so that members: the regent or vice regent, another they will be knowledgeable and confident stepping chapter officer, and another chapter member into leadership positions at the chapter or state levels. Regents, please nominate qualifying members for the New Horizons Course by contacting this officer, who serves as the New Horizons State Coordinator. Current and past chapter, district, and state officers are also encouraged to take the course to increase their DAR knowledge. Participants have a year to complete the course and they may enroll at any time. Contact this officer for more information.
Laurie Parker Nesbitt State Organizing Secretary State Coordinator, New Horizons Course This comprehensive, self-paced course includes 571-366-0359 online learning modules based on NSDAR webinars [email protected] and YouTube videos, with accompanying questionnaires; studies of DAR publications and resources (NSDAR history; chapter, state, and Supporting Our Organization Financially national bylaws); and participation in meetings, tours, and activities, such as state conference, tours September marks the start of wonderful chapter or work days at one of Virginia’s historic sites, and meetings, and dues collection should also be joint chapter meetings to celebrate Flag Day or underway for chapter treasurers. The deadline for George Washington’s Birthday. payment of NSDAR and Virginia dues for chapter
members, as well as payment of required NSDAR Participants must also complete a chapter-supported Chapter Achievement Award and Virginia Honor Roll Capstone Project that requires them to work with contributions, is December 1, 2016 . and lead others; for example, chair a new committee
September 2016 The Virginia View Page 7
(1) NSDAR dues of $40 must be paid for all chapter Please complete the Virginia DAR Remittance Form, members on or before December 1, 2016. Chapter available on the Virginia DAR Members-only website treasurers and chapter regents are authorized to log onto under “Forms/State Treasurer”, to reflect payment of e-Membership to complete the “Dues Invoicer” under the each of the above. Send the form with one chapter Updates tab. Easy step-by-step instructions and a Dues check made payable to State Treasurer, VADAR to Worksheet are available via the link. As the last step, you this officer on or before December 1, 2016. will download and print a copy of the final National Dues Invoice and mail with your chapter check made payable to Treasurer General, NSDAR to: Office of the Organizing Make it your goal to have this task completed before Secretary General, 1776 D St NW, Washington, DC 20006- Thanksgiving so that you have another reason to be 5303. grateful when you are with family on the big day! Please feel free to contact me if you have questions or Please remember that you may no longer resign non- need assistance. responsive members. They are to be considered Cynthia Reese Fein delinquent until the last day of February. Use the Dues State Treasurer Remittance Form (OSG-1003) available on the Virginia 1814 Pocahontas Street DAR Members website under “Forms/Treasurer” to Lynchburg, VA 24501-4416 submit any delinquent or residual dues payments outside 434-846-5041 of your Chapter Dues Invoice payment. This includes dues [email protected] for any members who have transferred into your chapter since August and do not appear on your Dues Invoicer.
(2) Virginia Dues, Virginia DAR Honor Roll, and New Member Application Guidelines NSDAR Chapter Achievement Award Contributions • Each chapter is required to pay $7 annual state A registrar’s goals are to increase membership and dues for all members as verified on e-Membership. make the application process move smoothly. • The following chapter contributions are required NSDAR Registrar General Mary Frisch is emphasizing to meet Virginia Honor Roll requirements: State the correct format in application preparation. This Regent’s Project ($10 minimum), Preservation of article will address pages one and two of the Virginia Records ($5 minimum), and Virginia DAR application. Scholarship Fund ($5 minimum). Page one is the official record of DAR membership. • Additionally, chapters must also make NSDAR Chapter Achievement Award contributions to the The typed name and the applicant’s signature should following funds: Historic Programs and Funds be identical on this page. There are other important ($25 minimum); Educational Programs and Funds signatures on page one. The indicated chapter ($25 minimum); Patriotic Programs and Funds officers’ signatures are the regent’s and the ($5 minimum); and Membership Programs and registrar’s. If either of these officers is unavailable to Administrative Funds ($20 minimum). sign, then another chapter officer can sign but must designate her office title under the signature. The • During the three years of the Dillon Administration (2016-2019), $7.50 per member two endorsers of the applicant must be members of must be contributed to the President General’s the chapter of record. If Member for Member (M4M) Project based on membership as of January 1, credit will be assigned after the application approval, 2017. It may be paid all at one time, or spread out then that member receiving M4M credit should be over the three years by paying $2.50 per member one of the endorsers. each year. Some reminders for information on Page two:
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Historian General’s website. Submission • Use applicant’s full name: first, middle, requirements are in the VIP! maiden name, last name. • All dates must use the format: day, ***Important Deadlines*** month, year (1 Jun 1942) NOVEMBER 15, 2016 - Entry for the “Outstanding • All places must use the format: town, Teacher of American History” contest must arrive at county, state (Bristol Washington Co the State Historian’s home. The contest honors a VA) full-time teacher of American history or a related • Always abbreviate county as CO and subject in the fifth through twelfth grades from a use the two-letter postal designation public, private, or parochial school. for each state. DECEMBER 15, 2016 – Your submission for a NSDAR The applicant should give complete dates for the first “Excellence in American History” book award must three generations: herself, her parents, and arrive at the Historian General’s home. The work grandparents-as well as documentation to support must make an original contribution or add notable these data. Please see page 28 of the “Genealogy information to the historical knowledge from 1607 to Guidelines” for more details. Information for 1801. individuals in generation 4 and earlier should be filled in as completely as possible with submitted ***Ongoing Award and Approvals*** proof documents. If individuals in these generations lived in a time and place where vital records are Don’t forget about the NSDAR History Award Medal readily available, those records should be submitted. or the approvals required to place/rededicate Every application must include at least one place and markers which recognize historical events or date reflecting the age of each person in each Patriot/Wife/Real Daughter graves! Information is generation. Following these guidelines and those on the Historian General’s website! outlined in the “Genealogy Guidelines” will provide applications that are easily verified and lead to the Holly Lynne McKinley Schmidt ultimate goal –New DAR Members. 751 Park Avenue Herndon, Virginia 20170-3237 Kathy J. McClelland (703) 955-7333 State Registrar Ho l ly [email protected] P. O. Box 254 Gate City, VA 24251-0254 276-386-7125 Virginia Places First For DAR Library Book [email protected] and Seimes Donations Virginia Daughters love the DAR Library and proved it in 2015. Congratulations! During the previous Recognition Opportunities! year, Virginia placed first in Book and Serial Collection contributions for states with more than There are great opportunities to recognize historians, 5,800 members making 183 donations. In addition, teachers, authors, and others who share and preserve Virginia received the first place award for support of American History! Pay attention to very important the Seimes Technology Center! deadlines and use the latest forms available on the
September 2016 The Virginia View Page 9
There are many ways to support the DAR Library and conduct of business at meetings and that are not Virginia daughters take advantage of them all. A deemed important enough to be put into the bylaws. minimum donation of $200 allows daughters to They require only a majority vote to adopt and also purchase either the Life Member pin or the Friends of to amend if prior notice is given.1 the Library pin. A minimum $100 donation qualifies for the Friends of Seimes Technology pin. Even though an action is permissible under a chapter’s bylaws and standing rules, which does not mean that it ought to be taken in a particular instance. Every chapter is asked to consider whether a contemplated measure will best accomplish the desired result and whether it will reflect well on the chapter, VADAR, and NSDAR. “Above board” conduct is strongly advised in all chapter dealings. A chapter whose members achieve unity of purpose can devote more energy to accomplishing significant organizational objectives. If negativism and
factionalism are allowed to prevail, a chapter may be Entrance to the DAR library is now free to the public. corroded, may be hampered from functioning Spread the word to your friends and family about this effectively, and may even dissolve. Disputes may be internationally renowned resource. linked to personality conflicts and should be resolved Nancy Mahone Miller within a chapter if at all possible. If diligent chapter 5268 Albright Drive efforts to resolve issues are unsuccessful, the State Virginia Beach, VA 23464-8120 Parliamentarian is available to help and may be 757-479-4167 consulted. Maintaining harmonious chapter relations [email protected] is consistent with the spirit of compromise that led to the adoption of the U.S. Constitution and should remain a primary goal of us all. Proper meeting and chapter management Mary B. White Chapters should send current bylaws and standing State Parliamentarian rules to the State Parliamentarian by November 1, 486 N. Latham Street 2016. Bylaws are fundamental rules that define an Alexandria 22304-2206 703-751-7463 organization. They describe a group’s purpose; [email protected] delineate the qualifications and method of selection of members; and provide standards for officers, committees, and meetings, including with regard to a quorum. They should include provisions for their own amendment that require prior notice of proposed amendments and at least a two-thirds vote for the amendments to be adopted. For Virginia DAR chapter bylaws, it is often useful if they incorporate by reference pertinent provisions of the National Bylaws, to avoid frequent amendments due to 1 Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised, 11th Edition, changes at the national level. Standing rules cover pp. 12-15, 18, 565-66; Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised in administrative details that do not relate to the Brief, 2nd Edition, pp. 85-87.
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that the audit committee (which does not include the treasurer) finds that the financial records are in good order and that their contents appear to be reasonable.
Please feel free to call or email me with any questions you may have about these documents or about the
Important News regarding IRS filings for topics of incorporation and fund-raising. Virginia DAR Chapters! Courtenay T. Stanley The IRS changed the method of filing the Form 990-N and 2034 Brownstone Lane Urban Institute is no longer accepting Form 990-N's on Charlottesville, VA 22901-6209 behalf of the IRS. There are step-by-step instructions in (434) 242-4720 the State Assistant Treasurer's section of the 2016 [email protected] Virginia Information Packet located on the VADAR website for use in filing the 990-N. Each treasurer should print out these instructions and follow them as the Form 990-N is being filed. Once the Form 990-N (e-postcard) has been filed, in order to complete Honor Roll requirements in this Updating Virginia DAR Cameo Club Information area, each chapter will need to send me four reports by December 1. They are: The Virginia DAR Cameo Club will be reorganizing. There are members who have passed away or who 1. a copy of the statement that the IRS has resigned, and yet are still in the club directory (2014- accepted the filing of Form 990-N. The IRS will 2016). We plan to ask members to respond NOT automatically send an acceptance letter. regarding their continued interest in membership! You will have to go back onto the IRS website, We have 95 members who do not have email go into the e-postcard profile that you created, addresses listed in the latest directory. Our new and go to "Manage Form 990-N Submissions" and revised directory will be sent via email so please then go to step 2--view the status of your send Pamela Reid ([email protected] or 703- existing Form 990-N submission. That is 455-4171) or me any changes to contact information where you should see that your status is such as address, telephone number and email. "accepted." From reports that I have been receiving, you will have to wait a day or two Our link on the Virginia DAR Members Only website before you check the website to find that your needs to be updated soon. Life Memberships are filing has been “accepted.” encouraged. Continue checking with us and plan on joining us for breakfast on the Friday morning of 2. a copy of the Statement of Activities which State Conference 2017! lists the revenue and expenses for the fiscal y e a r , Judy von Seldeneck, Club President
3. a copy of the Statement of Position which
reports the chapter's total net assets at the end of the fiscal year, and
4. a copy of the Audit Report which indicates
September 2016 The Virginia View Page 11
The new NSDAR New Members Course capitalizes on What is CDRC (Chapter Development & the enthusiasm of new members (two years’ Revitalization Commission)? membership or less) and newly active members, and provides them a systematic, organized route to
learning about DAR and finding their special Regents, could your chapter use a little help? Need interests in our society. training or assistance in chapter leadership? Learn The course uses a self-paced curriculum of online to get new members involved with the chapter and webinars and YouTube videos that participants can keep current members enthusiastic and engaged take or view at their convenience. With a year to with chapter service events? Discover the mechanics complete the course, participants also take on an behind bringing in new members—finding the independent project, such as paging; entering a DAR documentation and correctly preparing the contest; volunteering in an online project, like Patriot application? Records or GRC indexing; or taking Volunteer Genealogist courses I & II. Eligibility: • Must be a member in good standing • Created for new members or newly active members, but others are welcome • Must have a current subscription to American Spirit magazine (for the Daughters Newsletter) Look to the CDRC. We’re here to help strengthen You will have better-informed, motivated members chapters through training and assistance. sooner, ready to help with chapter service activities. The CDRC exists to help chapters, singly or in So reach out to your members, especially the new multiple-chapter workshops, in such areas as members, and encourage them to take the New effectively using the e-Membership Prospective Members Course! Member Database (PMD) to reach out and bring For more information and to enroll in the courses, prospective members to your chapter; using the contact the Virginia DAR State Coordinator. Lineage Research Lookup (LRL) Board to find supporting documentation needed for applications; Laurie Parker Nesbitt, State Coordinator completing new member applications according to current standards and requirements; training on
DAR history, mission, committees, and meetings (and pins!); and actively involving new members. And speaking of new members….
The New Members Course One of the signs of a healthy, thriving DAR chapter is that leadership encourages its members and New Commemorative Event! provides the opportunities for them to take continual BREAKING NEWS: Since the NIP/VIP was published training so that they can learn more about DAR and in July, the National Chairman added an exciting become more active, involved, happy members and event: informed, effective leaders. 225 th Anniversary of the Bill of Rights - (1791-2016).
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contact this chairman via email/phone or Penny Chapters are encouraged to use the VIP (Virginia Cummiskey, Vice Chair at 571-275- Information Packet - see VaDAR Members Only 0773/[email protected]. Rates at Holiday Inn Website) for info related to the variety of Central (HIC) are lower than most hotels (with DAR Commemorative Events that are being celebrated rates) and the bus takes riders to and from NSDAR and recognized during the Dillon and Surber HEADQUARTERS each day, the Virginia Luncheon administrations. Please know that you are welcome (Thursday) and the Grand Hyatt (Friday evening). to commemorate your local/community events with Very few cabs are needed! We chose the HIC because the same excitement! There are always many events there is parking for the bus and there are extra sinks to choose from for your chapter and community outside of the bathrooms. Stops will be in outreach programs, and some of these can be Wytheville, Roanoke, Staunton (and possibly ongoing celebrations throughout the next 3 years. Charlottesville, depending on number of riders) and Each of the commemorations mentioned in the VIP Richmond. CLIMB ABOARD! have a corresponding website for its organization where you can access the special logos, etc. The info Judy von Seldeneck, Chair at these sites will enhance your chapter programs in addition to providing valuable descriptions of activities. **OTHER NEWS** Banner Year for U. S. Flag Committee Regarding the 100th Anniversary of the End of World WOW another proud banner year for our Flag of the War I/Treaty of Versailles commemoration: if your United States with Virginia Daughters. During the community is home to a World War I memorial or past year you presented 16,198 flags to new citizens, statue, please report its location to the US WWI veterans, hospitals, schools, libraries, communitiy Centennial Commission at worldwar1centennial.org buildings, churches, and retirement communities. A and if the memorial or statue needs restoration, the new Virginia State Flag was donated to the Chapel at Commission has funds earmarked for such projects!! Valley Forge, PA as part of a flag replacement program to retire the worn-out state flags on display. Angela Eichenbrenner, Chair A special flag was ordered, and we were happy to replace our special Virginia Flag.
Flags are always happlily flying and we appreciated all you have done! Chapters undertook special activities to promote Flag etiquette by presenting 715 Flag certificates, 6,857 DAR Flag Code Brochures, and 3,496 copies of Flag literature. You held 162 memorable flag events, such as Flag retirements,
community events and exciting Flag Day parades and Join the 2017 Continental Congress Bus Tour ceremonies. Important Flag Minutes were conducted at 357 chapter meetings for our members. "The wheels on the bus go round & round from Wytheville to DC town!" The 2017 tour will Our most important effort is teaching students about commence on Tuesday, June 27, 2017 and end on fostering their pride in America and its Flag. You Sunday, July 2, 2017. Applications will be available at involved 1,947 youth by making presentations to Fall Forum and at State Conference. You can always
September 2016 The Virginia View Page 13 school groups, scout troops, and supporting the Susan Walls, Chair fourth grade flag essay contest. The top winner was from Culpeper Minute Men Chapter, District VI. Genealogical Records Committee News Thank you again for appointing both of us for this chairmanship. We appreciate the fine work of The charge of this committee is two-fold: 1) to chapters in furthering the goals of this committee collect, preserve and increase the holdings of and thank everyone for their efforts. unpublished genealogical source materials in our DAR Library, and 2) to make those same records Please come and visit at Fall Forum to learn more available online through the Every-Name Indexing ways to Fly our Flag proudly!! Project and the Bible Catalog Project. Along the way, you can earn the Bookworm pin or the VIS pin while Eleanor P. Price, Chair preserving our local history and Moving Forward in Anne-Cabrie’ Forsythe, Vice - Chair Service to America. Virginia has a proud tradition and reputation of excelling in these areas, whether discovering original materials like Family Bibles and recording cemetery stones or working on our home computers in slippers to enter the information gathered by others. We get it done.
Individual and Chapter awards based on number of pages and index entries submitted by December 31st will be given at State Conference. I look forward to hearing from you and our work together. DAR Good Citizens For detailed information on how you can join in the The DAR Good Citizens program recognizes and fun, visit the Genealogical Records Committee rewards high school seniors, male and female, who Webpage (you will need your national n u m b e r): display and exemplify the qualities of a good citizen. http://dar.org/committees/GRC/index.htm , The goals are to achieve 100% active support for the program by Virginia chapters (we are very close) and Instructions for Copying Source Records and Their to increase the number of accredited public and Preparations for Library Use (LG-GRC-2000): private high schools that participate. If we are http://members.dar.org/darnet/forms/LG-GRC- successful on these levels, more students will receive 2000.PDF , recognition from the DAR and we will likely increase participation in the Scholarship Essay Contest NSDAR Library Master Every Name Index (LG-GRC- portion of the program that can provide some 2001): http://members.dar.org/darnet/forms/LG- financial assistance as the winners pursue higher GRC-s001.PDF education. This is a wonderful way to recognize outstanding young people who exhibit the qualities The Committee Webpage is where you can “Volunteer of Good Citizenship: dependability, service, Now” and find pin information. leadership, and patriotism, in their homes, schools and communities. Catherine “Cathe’” Rafferty, Chair
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..THREE MINUTE REPORTS AT REGULAR CHAPTER Lineage Research News MEETINGS
The Lineage Research Committee (LRC) was established to help prospective members document their lineage on the application. From the National level through the Chapter level, the members of the LRC are your research assistants. Our team at the State level is made up of the following members: State Chair Deborah Clayton, District I Chair Jill Russell, District II Chair Elizabeth Jones, District IV Chair Janie Dillon and her Co-Chair Betty Jo Poteets, District V Chair Myra Wiggins and District VI Chair ..PRESENTING ROTC AND JRROTC MEDALS Camellia DeLellis-Wheatley. ..A CHAPTER PROGRAM ON NATIONAL DEFENSE ..PRESENTING DAR YOUTH CITIZENSHIP MEDAL While there are four objectives established at the ..PRESENTING DAR DISTINGUISHED CITIZEN MEDAL National level, the primary objective for Virginia’s ..VISIT THE NDC WEBPAGE Lineage Research Committee is to support chapter .. SUBMIT LETTERS AND EDITORIALS TO registrars in resolving AIR’s (Additional Information NEWSPAPERS Required). While I will typically wait a month or two ..SUBMIT ARTICLES FOR THE NATIONAL DEFENDER ..RECOGNIZE MILITARY CHAPTER MEMBERS to contact you after the AIR has been issued by
National, please feel free to contact me The National Chair of National Defense is Julia ([email protected] ) if you would like to access Rogers. One of her goals for the NATIONAL support sooner. We are fortunate to have some very DEFENDER these next three years is to highlight talented women as Virginia DAR District Chairs and Historic Military Bases, whether operating or not. we all want your prospective member’s application Should you like to do an article about this for the to have a successful conclusion. National Defender, please e-mail it to her at: [email protected]. We look forward to working with all of you over the next three years. Wanda Russo, Chair
Deborah Clayton, Chair Broadcast your accomplishments!
Everyone has a story to tell, make sure your chapter’s story is told. Tell it to prospective members in a brochure DAR National Defense Committee with pictures, and descriptions of your activities. Tell it in a newsletter to members to keep them involved. Tell it to ASSISTS MEMBERS WITH: your community in local media, and share it with other ..HISTORICAL DAR members through pictures on social media. ..EDUCATIONAL ..PATRIOTIC PURPOSES Your story includes presenting awards, donating items to ..BY ADVOCATING A STRONG NATIONAL DEFENSE military and veterans, fundraisers, memorials, parades, ..AND BY PRESERVING OUR AMERICAN HERITAGE volunteering in libraries, schools and museums, sprucing OF FREEDOM up a cemetery, or any community service project. Articles RELEVANT ACTIVITIES: and photos showing these activities are more likely to attract attention.
September 2016 The Virginia View Page 15
creativity, and this chairman is confident you have To get the press to your event, send in a press release tons of creativity so you’ll not be limited in any way! weeks in advance. Afterwards, send in your release For the next three years under President General Ann immediately. Photos showing a few members Turner Dillon and State Regent Judy Surber, we’ll be participating, is more likely to be published. The DAR coordinating this one special service day in each members website has many good suggestions for writing community across our great Country. The simple a press release. Look under Committees/ Public mass of having over 130 projects across the Relations. Also try the VIS Committee site for a valuable guide to usage and punctuation. Go to VIS Tools for a link Commonwealth of Virginia on the same day annually to the updated VIS Style Guide. is inspiring and rewarding for Virginia Daughters of the American Revolution. To take part in a newsletter exchange, editors please send me a copy of your publication. A list of sources for articles Please take lots of PICTURES or VIDEO…for your own is available and a library of them is in the works. use…and to forward one sample to this Committee for use in a statewide collage of our team impact To recognize chapters’ efforts in public relations, awards across Virginia. Your chapter participation will be will be given for the best print coverage, best media recognized at our State Conference. coverage, and Chapter Fact Sheet/Brochure. The deadline for providing supporting information will be February 1. Coordinate with Public Relations and Media
See the VIP for details or contact this chairman at Committees [email protected]. Not only do we want our members to know of our Linda Dinsmore, Chair ‘day of service’, we need to ‘educate the general public’ about the awesome work and strength of DAR. So please work closely with your chapter Introducing Service to America Committee Public Relations and Media Committee to gain newspaper, radio, TV, social media, website, etc. Through the Service to America Committee we coverage of your service event. refresh and renew the original goals of our National Society…to be of service to our country, our state and And then remarket the media coverage by including our community! it in your chapter newsletters, on your chapter websites, in your regent’s letter, in your chapter The NSDAR is often looked upon as purely a lineage blog…as many places as you can think of! Remember, society and its service organization mission often in our busy world, it takes at least 10 mentions goes unappreciated by the general public and even before any message is received by the average by some of its members. Yet remember the words of person. Eugenia Washington, DAR founder: “We want a society founded on service.” Record your Community Service hours on the NSDAR website: The goal of this committee is to capture the Special Day of Service on October 11th magnitude of that service provided by Daughters so Each chapter is asked to choose a special chapter- that all will realize and appreciate the vitality of wide service project in its community for October today’s DAR. Each of us as an individual Daughter 11th each year. Invite all your members to serves our personal community in many ways, be participate. You are limited only by your own that through schools, churches, historical societies, military support groups, youth organizations,
Page 16 The Virginia View September 2016 business associations, arts and cultural groups, and on and on! But again, this service is not always well understood by some of our own members, and Plan to Attend the 2017 State Conference certainly not by the general public. So it’s time to toot our own horns! We will meet March 24-26, 2017, at the Hotel Roanoke for the 121st State Conference. A fantastic Follow this link Service to America Online Tally to weekend of educational workshops and motivational enter your own community service hours on the speakers has been planned. NSDAR website. The weekend festivities will begin with a Welcome And click on the following link to learn more about the Cocktail Reception on Thursday, March 23 where old Service to America Committee and what types of DAR and new friends will meet to catch up. In order to service may be counted as community service hours. maximize your time together there will be no formal Goal is 19 Million Hours of Community Service program on Thursday evening. Our NSDAR challenge to DAR members for the next Selecting which workshop to attend on Friday three years is to report 19 million hours in morning will again be challenging as we have four celebration of the 100th anniversary of interesting topics from which to choose. Please Congressional approval of the 19th Amendment to remember to submit your Workshop Reservation the Constitution of the United States on June 4, 1919. Form to secure your place. The 19th Amendment giving women the right to vote was introduced in Congress in 1878, but it took 41 Patricia Musick Hatfield, Librarian General, NSDAR years for Congress to approve it and send it to the will be updating us on the GRC. Adele Morris, states for ratification. National Chair, Educational Resources will be providing information on her new committee. This was the culmination of the women’s suffrage Andrew Brunk, President of Brunk Auctions and movement in the United States which was fought at “Antiques Roadshow” appraiser, will discuss the both state and national levels. Many outstanding falling value of antiques. We are still working on our DAR members such as Susan B. Anthony, Elizabeth final workshop presenter. Cady Stanton, Frances Willard and Alice S. Paul worked long and hard to achieve the women’s right The Virginia Children of the American Revolution to vote. We honor them and our patriot ancestors by Debutantes will be presented on Friday evening giving back our love and appreciation of their followed by a presentation by Kat Imhoff, President & sacrifices to the citizens of this country through CEO of the Montpelier Foundation. volunteer services. On Saturday evening we will be honoring our Virginia DAR VIP: You’ll find this committee Chapter Regents. Many of the Regents from across overview with active links to the National Society the state will be providing updates of their chapter DAR website on our VADAR VIP webpage in case activities. you’d like to email it to your chapter members. Look for the Call to the 121st State Conference in Member username and password are both November which will include pre-registration, USConstitution (case sensitive!!!) credentials and workshop forms. All Virginia
Daughters are welcome and encouraged to attend. It Linda Hunley, Chair is the responsibility of each chapter to submit Carol Beam, Vice Chair registration for their members who wish to attend.
September 2016 The Virginia View Page 17
Susie Dewing, Chair Reception honoring State Conference guests will follow the Opening Night Program
SATURDAY, MARCH 25, 2017 7:30 a.m. – 8:45 a.m. Junior Breakfast * 8:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Registration 9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Morning Business Session 12:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. Chapter Awards Luncheon * 2:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. Afternoon Business Session 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Photograph Sessions (reserved) 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Cocktails (cash bar) 6:30 p.m. – 7:45 p.m. Regent’s Night Banquet (forma l) * 8:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Regent’s Night Program 10:30 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. Pages’ Club Meeting
2017 CONFERENCE SCHEDULE SUNDAY, MARCH 26, 2017
8:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. Celebration Breakfast Honoring THURSDAY, MARCH, 23, 2017 District Directors * 9:00 a.m. – 11:30 p.m. Finance Committee Meeting
11:45 a.m. – 12:15 a.m. Honorary Meeting with State Regent *Designates Official Conference Meal 1:15 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. District Directors’ Mtg w/ State Regent
2:45 p.m. – 4:45 p.m. Executive Committee Meeting 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Registration 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. CDRC Meeting 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. State Regent’s Private Dinner 7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. Welcome Reception (cash bar)
FRIDAY, MARCH 24, 2017 7:30 a.m. – 8:30 a.m. State Regent’s Breakfast 7:30 a.m. – 8:45 a.m. Cameo Club Breakfast 8:30 a.m. -- 4: 30 p.m. Registration 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Workshops 9:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. New Pages’ Meeting SAVE THE DATE 10:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. Pages’ Meeting 10:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. Virginia DAR Chorus Rehearsal 2017 Virginia Luncheon 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. State Regent’s Project Luncheon June 29, 2017 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. State Officers’ Club Meeting/Luncheon Noon – 2 PM 11:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Pages’ Club Meeting Ronald Reagan Bldg & International Trade Center 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. Pages’ Lunch, Presidential Suite Washington, DC 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Memorial Service
3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. Virginia Juniors’ Club Meeting 3:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Virginia DAR Chorus Rehearsal More information will be posted on The Virginia DAR 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. C.A.R. Debutante Rehearsal website and emailed to Regents as it becomes 4:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Photography Sessions (reserved) available 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Cocktails (cash bar) 6:30 p . m . – 7:45 p.m. Opening Night Banquet (formal) * E. Gail Eger, Virginia Luncheon Chair 8:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Opening Night Program [email protected] 703-360-9470
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Honoring Francisco de Miranda at the Yorktown Custom House In June 2016, Comte de Grasse Chapter hosted representatives of the VEN-AMER Reunion 2015 in District I commemoration of the first leader of the First Venezuela Republic, Francisco de Miranda. The group officially convened in October 2015 but had to Chesapeake Chapter and July 4 Parade re-schedule the placement of a brick in the Pathway to Preservation at the Custom House due to torrential Chesapeake Chapter proudly participated in the 2016 rains. South Norfolk July Fourth Parade. This small town The group chose to honor Miranda in Yorktown tradition includes three dozen groups that follow a because of his connection to our own American one-mile path through a neighborhood of historic Revolution. Miranda met with the British delegation homes hung with bunting and patriotic décor. Our that surrendered to Spanish forces at Pensacola, members were joined by other local chapter Florida on May 8, 1781. On June 10, 1783 he arrived daughters in decorating a 16’ float. We dressed to in New Bern, North Carolina and spent the next two represent ‘Daughters of the American Revolution years meeting such noted figures as George Through the Years’ by wearing attire from the Washington and Lafayette. On July 5, 1811 (not colonial era, Victorian period, Roaring 20s, 1940s, making the intended July 4th) the First Venezuela 1950s, 1960s, and modern clothes in red, white and Republic was declared with Miranda as the leader. blue.
Such historical connections are fascinating and Comte de Grasse Chapter enjoys the opportunity to Left to right: Emily Holmes (Great Bridge Chapter), Ann Maliniak, Phyllis Schirle, Jacki Smith (Prospective Member), Pamela Knox (Fort share the Custom House with visitors to Yorktown. Nelson Chapter) , and Jerrilyn Wells.
We were joined by representatives from the Virginia Charles Parish Chapter Celebrates Youth Regiment, who marched behind our float The ladies of Charles Parish gathered on May 15, wearing Continental Army uniforms complete with 2016 to celebrate the accomplishments of the canteens and muskets. Our float was the grand finale Chapter under out-going Chapter Regent Mary Ann to the parade and was featured in a local news video Philyaw, and to swear in the officers for the 2016 – on Twitter, as well as the parade broadcast on local 2019 administration. Barbara Tinin Freeman, the in- coming Regent, announced that Mrs. Philyaw had access television. been nominated for Honorary Chapter Regent. She is only the fourth to hold that honor in our Chapter.
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In addition to Mrs. Freeman, the newly elected people including the Nottoway lived in the Virginia- Chapter officers are Karen L. Pogoloff, First Vice North Carolina coastal plain. The Nottoway Regent; Justine Walsh Self, Recording Secretary; Ellen remained relatively undisturbed by the English Short Baize, Corresponding Secretary; Sterling Sutton Colony expanding from Jamestown during the first Topping, Treasurer; Jill Sibson Russell, Registrar; Sue half of the seventeenth century. After the Nottoway Riley Trull, Historian; Anita Gardner Barden, were visited by Edward Bland in 1650, early Librarian; and Porter Phillips Booker, Chaplain (see merchants and land seekers began to expand into the photo below.) land and territorial towns of the Nottoway (Rowantee, Tannatorah and Cohanahanhaka), which were on the main Indian trade path called Weecacana, which paralleled the fall line to the south into present day state of North Carolina. At the end of Bacon's Rebellion in 1677, the Virginia Colonists and Virginia Indians, including the Nottoway, signed the Treaty of Middle Plantation. The Spotswood Treaty with the Nottoway in 1713 firmly established the relationship of the Nottoway with Virginia during the colonial period. Eventually, the Nottoway People "Provide. Ensure. Promote. Secure." from the were forced onto the reserve of land of preamble to the Constitution has been selected by approximately 44,000 acres known as the Circle and Mrs. Freeman as the Chapter’s theme. She stated: Square, which was in the vicinity of present day “We will strive to provide excellent programs and Sebrell, Capron and Courtland Virginia. (See activities; ensure camaraderie, love, and support for http://nottowayindians.org/home.html) all our members; promote membership and information about DAR goals; and secure blessings.” Programs will focus on monthly themes including: National Defense, Virginia History, American History, Genealogy, and Exploring Virginia. Programs planned for 2016 include the student documentary World War II Veterans of Hampton Roads; the Decorative Arts in Colonial America by a scholar from William and Mary, and the History of Tea and its Influence on Colonial America by a Certified Tea Sommelier.
One of the highlights of the Philyaw administration Ms. Topping and Ms. Pogoloff served as the hostesses, was a presentation by Lynette Allston, Chief of the and presented treats based on the “Three Sisters” of Nottoway Indian Tribe of Virginia (see photo below.) maize, winter squash and climbing beans. According The Nottoway Indian Tribe of Virginia is one of the to Native American legend, they are three eleven recognized Indian Tribes in Virginia (others inseparable sisters who only grow and thrive are Mattaponi, Pamunkey, Chickahominy, Eastern together. One of the three was a little sister, so young Chickahominy, Rappahannock, Upper Mattaponi, that she could only crawl at first, and she was Nansemond, Monacan Nation, Cheronehaka dressed in green. The second of the three wore a (Nottoway), and Patawomeck). The Nottoway Tribe frock of bright yellow, and she had a way of running of Virginia received this recognition on February 26, off by herself when the sun shone and the soft wind 2010. blew in her face. The third was the eldest sister,
standing always very straight and tall above the
Chief Allston told the members of the Chapter the other sisters and trying to guard them. She wore a fascinating history of the Nottoway. Prior to 1607, pale green shawl, and she had long, yellow hair that several distinct groups of Iroquoian speaking native tossed about her head in the breezes.
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the House of Delegates at the Virginia Capitol, and 125 years of DAR service to state and nation was Fort Nelson's 120th Anniversary Event recognized. Delegate Hyland F. Fowler, Jr. presented a joint resolution on behalf of the General Assembly commending the chapter for its work. Delegate Fowler, who holds the seat once held by Patrick Henry, voice of the Revolution and Virginia's first governor, applauded National Society DAR and Commonwealth Chapter for, "Steadfast commitment to live by and preserve the ideals and spirit of the Revolutionary generation."
On May 5, 2016, the Commemorative Events Committee planned a “Garden Party”for Fort Nelson Chapter’s 120th Anniversary Celebration. It was held at the Fort Nelson Chapter House, in Portsmouth, Virginia, built 80 years ago for a past Regent as a DAR meeting house. Our gest of honor Virginia State
Regent Elect, Judith Joy Surber, took our past history The ceremony marked the second time recently that and compared life today with our chapter members. our story joined that of the General Assembly, the oldest elected lawmaking body in the Western Other guests were Virginia state officers, district Hemisphere. On October 11, 2015, Commonwealth directors, 16 area regents and Fort Nelson Chapter Chapter rededicated a historical marker exactly 100 members. Some guests and members braved the years to the day after which it was erected. Placed at inclement weather and moved outside under the the corner of 14th and Cary in Richmond, the plaque tents with their refreshments and lovely decorated marks the former site of the "Old Capitol" where the celebration cake. General Assembly met from 1780-1788. In those humble wooden quarters the Assembly conducted Souvenirs of the event were presented to everyone. the business of the people laying foundations for The grave of Rebecca Marshall Nash, our founding national and state freedoms enjoyed yet today. Regent serving for 25 years, was marked along with those of three other past regents. Henricopolis Chapter Members Attend District II Continental Congress and Win Awards
Two Henricopolis Chapter members received national awards. At the May meeting Chapter Vice Commonwealth Chapter Honored by Regent Anita Harrower was presented with the Virginia General Assembly NSDAR Community Service award which is given to an active member for noteworthy community service On May 31, 2016, a contingent led by Chapter Regent outside of her DAR work. Anita was recognized for Carol Beam was welcomed into the 1788 Old Hall of
September 2016 The Virginia View Page 21 her countless hours of volunteer work with many area organizations.
Members assisted the children and parents in choosing as many books as they wanted from the 1,381 books given by the chapter. Patriotic tote bags, donated by a member, were used by the attendees to take home their books and crafts. Left to right: Patti Rowley, past Henricopolis Chapter, NSDAR Regent; Helen Ware, Woman's Club Veterans Chair; Anita Harrower; Mary Viars, The chapter focuses on literacy promotion and is the Past President of the Woman's Club of Essex County recipient of two first place and one third place Those highlighted include the following NSDAR Outstanding Service of a Chapter in Literacy achievements: co-chair of the Woman's Club of Essex Promotion award during the past eight years. County's committee to raise funds for the restoration of the Civil War Monument; active involvement with District III the Essex County Museum and Historical Society and the Westmoreland Players; and her annual Amherst Chapter and Historic Winton participation in the local Memorial Day, Veterans Day and POW/MIA Recognition Day services.
In June three members attended Continental Congress where Patti Rowley received first place in the crochet category at the American Heritage Arts Awards ceremony for her crocheted cape.
Spotsylvania Chapter Promotes Literacy
Spotsylvania Chapter, NSDAR organized a literacy During the summer, our executive board met with promotion event for the Fredericksburg Area various local organizations to introduce themselves Salvation Army’s Friday Night Food and Fun and foster relationships within the community. In program. The joint program hosted numerous August, Chapter Regent Anne Neff, Vice Regent Mary children and their families for literacy activities and Mays and Chaplain Judy Dudley were the guests of dinner. Gloria Stiltner, President of the Winton Manor House Children were divided into groups by age at Preservation Society, and Julie Wilson, Special Events registration. Chapter members planned and Manager. The board members were treated to a developed literacy games, bookmark crafts, and private tour of the Manor House and learned about “Paws for Reading” group with a member and her the society’s goals for further restoration. registered therapy and Reading Education Assistance Winton, the home of Colonel Samuel Meredith, was (R.E.A.D) dog. All children were able to participate in also the home and final resting place of his mother- each activity. in-law, Sarah Winston Syme Henry, mother of Patrick Henry. Through the years, Winton has played an integral part in the chapter’s history. In 1976, in honor of America’s Bicentennial, Amherst Chapter, NSDAR chose a preservation project to have Sarah
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Winston Henry’s last will and testament preserved. A copy of the document was presented to Winton for appropriate display (see below.)
In March 2017, the chapter will host a tea followed by the wreath laying ceremony in honor of the District IV beloved Henry matriarch. The board members are excited to share their love of historic preservation Levisa River Chapter Honored and the rich history of Amherst County by revitalizing the once annual event. Levisa River Chapter, chartered in 2000 and now
James River Chapter Thanks Veterans with 72 members, was honored to receive two On March 29, members of the James River Chapter, prestigious awards: State Conference Award, First along with representatives of the other Lynchburg Place Preservation of Buchanan County Courthouse area chapters, NSDAR, met with Lynchburg Mayor, Records and Outstanding Project: Preservation of Michael A. Gillette, who graciously signed our Buchanan County Records. “Recognition of Vietnam War Veterans Proclamation”, declaring it a day to honor, and thank The dream of restoring Buchanan County Courthouse our Vietnam Veterans for their service and sacrifices records began when the committee for Virginia DAR during the Vietnam War. This date was chosen by Preservation of Records selected two books at the Veteran’s Affairs Secretary, Robert A. McDonald as it Buchanan County Courthouse to be restored in honor was the last day that U.S. troops were on the ground of Patricia Hatfield, then Virginia DAR State Regent; in Vietnam. Our gratitude and appreciation to them Mrs. Hatfield is from Buchanan County and a charter and their families is heartfelt! member of Levisa River Chapter, NSDAR. The realization that the records were in such dire As is a James River Chapter tradition, many chapter condition led to the chapter’s dream of preserving members (see photo below) attended Memorial Day more records. The chapter’s Committee for Services at Monument Terrace in downtown Preservation of Records began pursuing funding Lynchburg. Monument Terrace is beautiful and opportunities. Levisa River Chapter then applied for serene, and honors Lynchburg citizens who have grants both in 2014 and 2015 to Ratcliffe Foundation, fought and died in the Civil War, Spanish American a non-profit organization that provides financial War, World Wars I and II, Korea, Vietnam and the support to historical/educational endeavors. Special present-day hostilities in the Middle East. At the base thanks to Sherri Dawson, Susie Mullins, Freda is a bronze iconic statue of a doughboy. Other Rasnake, and Brenda Ward for all their work in sculptures and terraces adorn the 139 steps which submitting the grants. Ratcliffe Foundation provided lead to the old Court House Museum. monies totaling $25,000 which was used for preservation of Buchanan County Courthouse records, along with assistance by the Buchanan county Circuit Court Clerk’s office. Kofile
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Preservation Company evaluated the County’s Our members have gathered on the occasion records and determined which books to restore, of the fiftieth Anniversary of the Viet Nam War to which have been completed. express our gratitude and appreciation to veterans who served our country during that time. In our Preserving historical records of genealogical and phone conversations with you, we learned some educational significance has been an ambitious amazing facts. Several of you made a career in the undertaking for our chapter. The restoration process military; young men were drafted by the local Draft included scanning and microfilming of documents as Board; many of you volunteered for this task. Once part of the project, the preserved records are now there, you went unarmed into the jungles to set up available from the library of Virginia. As a result of base camps without cover of regular troops; Levisa River’s dream, future generations will now individuals learned to sit for hours and hours without have access to their past; whether tracing ancestors, moving (even to blink an eye) as you counted Charlie documenting important information from court leaving the underground tunnels and traveling the cases. Without proper care, these irreplaceable Ho Chi Minh Trail within yards of where you were records would have been lost. sitting; you were there when Saigon fell; nearly all of you are decorated veterans—some very highly. Many of you were wounded, and some of our sons paid the ultimate price with their young lives. Terry Alsup drove a truckload of explosives away to save his comrades. Bill Gilmer was killed as he worked with the wounded on the battlefield. Others lost from Russell County include Douglas E. Dishman, Robert G. Garrett, Grover Wright, Jr., and Buford R. Spencer. In May the Levisa River DAR held a viewing and an appreciation banquet for Ratcliffe Foundation For too many years our nation and our people have members, Buchanan County Clerk’s office, and DAR ignored the men and women who served in the members. The Ratcliffe Foundation also granted Armed Forces during that long, drawn-out war in the $5,000 for 2016 so the Buchanan County records jungles of Southeast Asia, the longest war our nation preservation will continue. has ever fought. This simple service will not make up
for that slight, but this DAR Chapter would like to Tabitha Adams Russell Chapter and July 4th humbly recognize you for your service. Presentations to Vietnam War Veterans Let me say: At this year’s July 4th Celebration in the Lebanon We remember your sacrifice. Middle School, on the occasion of the 50th We honor your courage, Anniversary of the Viet Nam War, the Tabitha Adams And we do not forget Russell Chapter National Society Daughters of the That it was you American Revolution honored the Russell County Who paid the high price so that others Veterans who served during the Vietnam War Era. Might live in freedom.
Regent Jo Osborne gave a message of thanks and I am sure you will say, “We did no more than other tribute which is quoted here. soldiers of other times.”
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John F. Kennedy said “A man does what he must—in spite of personal consequences, in spite of obstacles District V and dangers, in spite of outside pressures—and Nelly Custis Chapter Plants Pink Dogwoods that’s the basis of all human morality.” Along GW Parkway
In a few short months Nelly Custis Chapter member THANK YOU! Carolyn Cerbin spearheaded an effort to raise funds in support of our State Regent’s project to plant pink A roll-call of men and women who served followed. dogwoods in our Commonwealth. Along with the Ninety-eight certificates were presented by past help of Regent Natalie Ardoline, a total of $12,500 regent Margaret Combs. She was assisted by was raised to plant pink dogwoods along the George Elizabeth Trevillian, Director District IV, and Patricia Washington Memorial Parkway in Northern Virginia along the Potomac River. Several other District V Musick Hatfield, Honorary Virginia State Regent and Chapters also contributed to this effort as well as current Librarian General, NSDAR. The audience private donors, as the George Washington Parkway is gave a standing ovation at the end of the a beloved local drive. presentations. Thomas Taylor from Honaker sang, “God Bless the U. S. A.” while tears flowed in the crowd.
Left to right: Wanda English, District V Director; Jason Newman, Chief, Lands, Planning & Design George Washington Memorial Parkway; Susan Newton, Senior Vice President, Grants and Programs, National Parks Foundation: Laurie Nesbitt, Virginia State Organizing Secretary, a n d Natalie Ardoline, Regent
Under a glorious sunny sky the initial tree was planted along the Parkway near Collingwood Library Librarian General Patricia Hatfield thanks a veteran at a ceremony attended by several dozen, including This was not a complete list of those who served, Laurie Nesbitt, Virginia State Organizing Secretary; only those with whom we had made contact. Our Wanda English, District V Director, Susan Newton, Senior VP Grants and Programs, National Park purpose was to make a visible tribute of gratitude to Foundation; and Jason Newman, Chief, Lands, our men and women who served their country at that Planning & Design, George Washington Memorial time. Parkway. After opening remarks and enjoying pink lemonade and pink dogwood decorated cookies, the assembled all partook of the tree planting and posed for photos.
September 2016 The Virginia View Page 25
Virginia Women’s Monument & Providence C h a p t e r
At Providence Chapter’s March 5, 2016, meeting, the Honorable Mary Margaret Whipple, Vice-Chair of the Virginia Women's Monument, presented a program on the monument, which will be placed on the grounds of the Virginia state Capitol in Richmond. The Virginia Women’s Monument will recognize the importance of women’s contributions and achievements and teaches the history of women’s important contributions. In honor of the 125th birthday of the Daughters of the American Revolution, the chapter collected over 125 books for children 5 and younger for the Department of Social Services.
Washington-Lewis Chapter Members Celebrate at Continental Congress
Left to right: The Honorable Mary Margaret Whipple and Janet Crowl, Providence Chapter Regent
The design of the monument includes bronze statues of the following twelve women: Ann Burras Laydon, Cockacoeske, Mary Draper Ingles, Martha Dandridge
Custis Washington, Clementina Bird Rind, Elizabeth Hobbs Keckley, Sally Louisa Tompkins, Maggie L. Washington-Lewis Chapter Regent Vicki Dehlbom, Walker, Sarah G. Boyd Jones, Laura Lu Copenhaver, Honorary Chapter Regent Sue Maglin, and chapter Virginia Estelle Randolph, and Adele Goodman Clark. member Holly Maglin were pleased to be on hand at Ms. Whipple said that they hope to begin building the Continental Congress on Saturday, June 18 to monument in 2017 and complete it by 2019. More congratulate Honorary Virginia State Regent and information about the monument is available at fellow chapter member Virginia “Ginnie” Storage on http://womensmonumentcom.virginia.gov/index.ht her election as Vice-President General, NSDAR. ml.
125 Books D o n a t e d
On Saturday, October 10, 2015 the Washington- Lewis Chapter, NSDAR held their monthly meeting at Ferry Farm. The guest speaker was Shannon Hartung, Supervisor for Child and Adult Protective Services, City of Fredericksburg, Department of Social Services.
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by British Dragoons under the command of Captain District VI
District VI Officers and Regents Socialize Virginia DAR District VI Regents and District VI Officers met Saturday, June 25, 2016 at the home of Sharon Steo, District VI Director for a short meeting and luncheon prepared by the district officers as they begin their term of office. To the delight of the new regents, Judith Joy Surber, Virginia DAR State Regent, attended and was welcomed to the affair. McLeod. What was happening?
This year the Thomas Jefferson Foundation decided to portray what they called ‘The British Invasion of 1781’. Our chapter called it ‘Jack Jouett’s Ride.’ They invited re-enactors from Colonial Williamsburg and Philadelphia to come to Monticello to take part in the drama. Visitors could “witness Jack Jouett’s daring ride, Jefferson’s tender farewell to his family and the dramatic British raid on Monticello.” …so said the publicity on the Monticello website.
The Jack Jouett Chapter was invited to take part in Pictured, left to right: the celebration. Our chapter decided to have a booth Row 1 - Sharon Steo, Betty Wade; Row 2 - Robbie Rokosz, Betsy Edgecomb, Eleanor at which youngsters could make a tri-corner hat, Price, Judy Surber, Diane Inman; complete with cockade , color a picture of Jack’s ride, Row 3 - Barbara Mozisek, Allie Maxwell, Brenda or pick up a ‘Traveling TJ’ (similar to Flat Stanley.) Rose, Cynthia Phillips, Linda Dinsmore,Emma Jordan; We also distributed information about DAR and Row 4 - Sharon MacDonald, Mary Ann Cowherd, shared copies of American Spirit. Penny Cummiskey, Sharon Boyer; Row 5 - Beth Ekdahl, Bobbie Gallo, Beverly For two days, visitors, re-enactors, and chapter Alexander, Kathryn Campbell, Diann Snyder members alike were transported back in time to Present but not in photo: Debra Hansbrough, experience the invasion of a foreign army on Dolores Lackovitch American soil. In spite of that, everyone had a wonderful time. The event was so successful that they plan to do it again next year on the actual dates The British Invade Monticello Again…. of the event. Mark your calendars – June 3 and 4,
2017. We’ll see you at Monticello. On a beautiful summer weekend in June, 2016, the
British once again invaded the peace and serenity of
Mr. Jefferson’s mountain. British and American Memorial Day Event Sponsored by forces camped on his grounds. Musket volleys were Massanutton Chapter heard in the air. Horses’ hooves pounded up across the West Lawn. Jack Jouett made his famous Massanutton Chapter remembered Memorial Day appearance to warn the household, followed shortly with a service held at the Harrisonburg Veteran's Memorial Wall on the James Madison University
September 2016 The Virginia View Page 27 campus. Chapter members read aloud each name of brochure on its men and history that began when, in local fallen heroes starting from World War I to the January 1776 during his sermon in a log church in present. Honorary Regent Brenda Babcock placed an Woodstock, Reverend Muhlenberg removed his American flag in a wreath for each name called and clerical robe to reveal the uniform of a Continental Honorary Regent Linda Dinsmore tolled a bell. Welcome was given by Regent Penny Cummiskey and Army Colonel and enlisted parishioners to join him in prayer by Chaplain Lola McBride. the fight for American independence. Between 1981 and 2005, the Chapter has marked ten Revolutionary War patriot graves in Shenandoah County where we reside.
Narrow Passage has 39 members and we are active in our community. Like all good DAR Daughters, we try never to miss an opportunity to educate our fellow citizens about the DAR. Whether it’s Constitution Week, the Edinburg Ole Time Festival, Shenandoah County Heritage Day, our veterans, community service awards, local cable TV or through our volunteer work, part of our mission is to take the mystery out of the DAR so that people will be more receptive to us, understand that we are a service organization, and to build interest in membership.
While we will be celebrating our first 40 years, the
Honorary Chapter Regent Brenda Babcock Chapter will also be “Moving Forward in Service to America” as we begin the next 40.
Narrow Passage Chapter’s 40th Anniversary On November 12, 2016, Narrow Passage Chapter, Woodstock, Virginia, turns 40. The Chapter was organized in the Bicentennial year with 21 members and Virginia State Regent, Mrs. Carl Stark, administered the oath to the officers including Organizing Regent, Shelley L. Rucker. The Chapter’s organizing meeting was held November 13, 1976.
Not only do our members have roots going back to the American Revolution, so does our chapter home, Woodstock. For the past 40 years, the chapter has memorialized John Peter Gabriel Muhlenberg and, District VII since its October 1, 1988 dedication on Court Square, laid a wreath at the bust of General Muhlenberg that Craig Valley Chapter Presents Vietnam War the Chapter commissioned of Caroline Muhlenberg Memorial Plaque to Craig County Hufford Anderson, a sculptor and direct descendant Memorial Day 2016 was a great day in the history of of Muhlenberg. We also honor General Muhlenberg’s New Castle as Craig Valley Chapter presented an 18” 8th Virginia Regiment with a newly published
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th x 20” bronze plaque to commemorate the 50 Anniversary of the Vietnam War. A Commemorative General Joseph Martin Chapter Celebrates Flag Partner with the Department of Defense, Craig Valley Day Chapter was founded only eight years earlier and had 26 members when planning began for this occasion. What a day! Flag Day June 14, 2016, was also the Veterans from other wars and eras are honored by 100th anniversary of President Woodrow Wilson's various markers at the Craig County Courthouse, proclamation declaring that Flag Day be celebrated which dates to 1851 when the rural county was every year. established, but this is the first and only local recognition of Vietnam war veterans. Additionally, The General Joseph Martin Chapter, NSDAR, chose Craig Valley Daughters are proud that for the first the Historic Henry County Courthouse as the setting time in the county the NSDAR insignia is displayed in for an old-fashioned patriotic celebration with a such a permanent and impressive location. prelude of patriotic music, flags, balloons, veterans, lemonade, and cookies. The Martinsville/Henry County Honor Guard posted the colors, and the Patrick Henry Chapter, NSDAR, led the audience in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance and singing The Star Spangled Banner. The Armed Forces Medley was played, and veterans stood with their specific songs. Four of the five branches of service were represented that day. A ninety-two year old WWII veteran was offered the use of the elevator as he signed in but declined and with a ramrod back climbed the stairs with dignity. General Joseph Martin members presented a short history on the writings of The Star Spangled Banner, Stars and Stripes Forever, and You're A Grand Old Flag. A brief history of the American Flag, a demonstration of folding the flag with the meaning of each fold was given by members of VFW Post 4637.
The Honor Guard retired the colors, and the program The dedication of the plaque was part of the town’s was concluded with the sounding of Taps. annual Memorial Day service on May 30, 2016. The large crowd in attendance included regents from three neighboring chapters, all the local and active Craig Valley members, and 25 Vietnam Veterans, who received Certificates of Appreciation for their service. Billy Lee, Commander of VFW Post #4491, expressed appreciation on behalf of the local veterans and the community. The plaque now hangs in a prominent location in the central staircase of the county courthouse.
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As Stars and Stripes Forever played, the audience of of the United States of America. Charles Poland, 2nd- almost ninety descended downstairs to enjoy cookies Vice President of the Fincastle Sons of the American and lemonade and socializing. Revolution Chapter, spoke of Henry Redman’s Revolutionary and War of 1812 service. LeAnn Turbyfill, National Chair, Celebrate America Peaks of Otter Chapter NSDAR Holds Real Committee, NSDAR, spoke on “What is a Real Daughter Grave Marker Dedication Daughter?” Mary B. White, Virginia DAR State Historian, gave the “Short Biography of the Patriot, Henry Redman” which included his detailed service record, imprisonment in Nova Scotia after the surrender at the Battle of Charleston, South Carolina, and the family movements from the counties of Frederick to Gloucester to Amherst and finally to Bedford in 1802. The “Biography of Real Daughter, Arrenah Redman” presented by Sharon Russell, Chapter Regent, finished the story of the Redman family by describing their lives after the death of Henry; the family’s effort to gain financial stability; Arrenah’s mother’s prolonged fight to obtain a widow’s pension; and when all of her family was gone, Arrenah’s own personal struggles to care for herself financially. With the Retiring of the Colors, the Fife and Drum Corps led the assembly from the church to their cars.
The 20 car caravan, with the assistance of a Bedford County sheriff deputy, traveled one-half mile to
On June 11, 2016, the Peaks of Otter Chapter NSDAR Arrenah’s grave site. The Fife and Drum Corps led held the Arrenah Redman Real Daughter Grave the attendees to the grave site in the shade of mature Maker Dedication. This long-anticipated oak trees where the participants gathered to dedicate commemorative event was finally realized after 2 the two Real Daughter plaques on Arrenah’s years of extensive research on Arrenah and her tombstone. family. The first Real Daughter marker, a bronze rectangular Attendees were met with the sounds of the 18th plaque, was placed in 1923 by the Virginia DAR, but century as they entered the sanctuary of the was never dedicated. The second marker, the newer Otterville United Methodist Church, the same church shield-shaped bronze Real Daughter plaque, was Arrenah had attended. Three Jefferson Forest High placed for this occasion by the Peaks of Otter Chapter School senior musicians, played Revolutionary War NSDAR. Sharon Russell spoke of the research period music on piccolos and drum. This was a required to solve the mystery of Arrenah’s beautiful beginning to the ceremony and so tombstone and rectangular plaque. After Carole appropriate as Arrenah’s father, Henry Redman, was Lacy, chapter Chaplain, conducted the Arrenah a Revolutionary War fifer and Arrenah had also Redman Real Daughter Marker Dedication, Sharon played the fife. Russell and Heather Theakston, Old Dominion The 75 guests were DAR members from Virginia, Chapter First Vice Regent, unveiled the tombstone. Georgia, and California; special guests; and local community residents. After the Presentation of Three wreaths were placed at the grave site by: Mary Colors by Carolyn McBride and Sue Trussell, the B. White for the Virginia DAR; Louise Burroughs for Invocation was given by Eleanor Dye, Virginia DAR the Peaks of Otter Chapter; and Marjorie Lechner for State Chaplain. Carolyn Saunders, chapter National the Fayette-Starr’s Mill Chapter, GA. The U.S. Flag Defense Chair, led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag was placed by Kimberly Howard, chapter past First
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Vice Regent. The dedication then concluded with the American Revolution in 1890. Mrs. Caroline Scott Benediction by Eleanor Dye. Harrison, wife of President Benjamin Harrison, was elected as the first “President General”. Because of Refreshments were served by the church ladies Mrs. Harrison’s obligations as first lady, Mrs. Cabell following the ceremony. The beautiful decorations served as the “Vice President Presiding”. During her inside and outside of the church were created by term, the NSDAR chartered 150 individual chapters Louise Burroughs and a cake, decorated with a in 35 states and District of Columbia enrolling picture of Arrenah’s tombstone and plaque, was thousands of women. supplied by Carole Lacy.
We wish to take this opportunity to acknowledge the members of the Old Dominion Chapter in Richmond, who in 1896 heard of the plight of an indigent elderly lady in Bedford County, a daughter of a patriot. We are grateful for the Christian charity bestowed on Arrenah by the Old Dominion Chapter members. Not only did they provide funds for Arrenah’s support, Join Us on Facebook! they also sent in her application papers for membership to the National Society. In April 1896, www.facebook.com two weeks before her death, Miss Arrenah Redman was accepted into the National Society Daughters of Virginia Daughters of the American Revolution the American Revolution as a Real Daughter, National Number 13828.
Roanoke Valley Chapter M e m b e r s Visit “Point of Honor”
Members of Roanoke Valley Chapter, NSDAR in Vinton enjoyed a trip to Lynchburg on April 11, 2016. After an enjoyable lunch at The Depot Grille, the ladies toured “Point of Honor”, the restored Cabell Home. “Point of Honor” was the birthplace of Mary Virginia Ellet Cabell (January 24, 1839). Mrs. Cabell was elected as the first “Vice President General” at the founding of the National Society Daughters of the