National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution

Overview

The National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR), commonly referred to as DAR, is a non-profit, lineage-based membership service organization for women. It was established on October 11, 1890, and chartered by Congress on December 2, 1896. The organization is dedicated to promoting education, patriotism, and historic preservation, while providing community service.

Founding

The DAR was founded by four determined women: Mary Smith Lockwood, Mary Desha, Ellen Hardin Walworth, and Eugenia Washington. The organization's inception was a response to the Sons of the American Revolution's refusal to admit women to their ranks. The first meeting took place at the Strathmore Arms, the residence of Mary Smith Lockwood, in Washington, D.C.

Membership

Membership in the DAR is limited to women who are direct lineal descendants of patriots of the American Revolutionary War era. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and provide genealogical proof of their lineage. The organization has over 190,000 members in the United States and abroad, organized into local chapters known as "chapters" or "societies."

Objectives

The DAR operates under three main objectives:

1. Education: The DAR provides scholarships, educational programs, and supports specialized schools such as Berry College in Georgia and Kate Duncan Smith DAR School in Alabama. They also offer financial support to Native American students at institutions like Chemawa Indian School and Bacone College.

2. Historic Preservation: The DAR is involved in preserving American history and culture, maintaining a genealogical library and exhibits at its headquarters, Memorial Continental Hall, in Washington, D.C.

3. Patriotism: The DAR actively engages in patriotic activities, including support for veterans, Americanization programs, and commemorative events such as Constitution Week.

Activities

Members of the DAR participate in various community service projects:

• Veteran Support: They volunteer in veterans' hospitals and facilities, offering over 200,000 hours annually.
• Civic Engagement: DAR sponsors naturalization ceremonies and supports military personnel abroad through care packages and other initiatives.
• Historical Projects: Chapters mark historical sites and contribute to cultural preservation efforts.

Publications

The organization publishes American Spirit Magazine and formerly Daughters Magazine (both replaced the original American Monthly).

Affiliations

The DAR is affiliated with the Children of the American Revolution (CAR), a youth organization that encourages young people to learn about American history and patriotism.

Operations

The DAR is headquartered at Memorial Continental Hall in Washington, D.C., and is led by a President General who oversees national operations.

EIN and IRS Status

The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution operates under the EIN 53-6020383. However, as mentioned, the EIN provided in the query may refer to a specific chapter or chapter-related entity within the larger DAR organization.

Conclusion

The National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution is a prominent organization dedicated to preserving American history, promoting education, and fostering patriotism. Its extensive network of chapters supports a wide range of community and historical preservation projects across the United States and beyond.