May is #preservationmonth! The DAR is proud to take on the work of preserving historic places and objects all over the nation, through the DAR Historic Preservation Grants program. Today, we’re excited to highlight a project with Old North Illuminated in Boston, MA, sponsored by the Paul Revere DAR Chapter. In 1824, while touring the United States, the Marquis de Lafayette visited Boston’s Old North Church. When he saw this portrait bust of George Washington he said, “Yes, that is the man I knew.” Lafayette considered the bust, created by or in the style of Christian Gullager ca. 1790, to be one of the best likenesses of the first president he had ever seen. While most representations of Washington from the time portray him similarly to a Greek god, furthering the idolization of him as a hero, in this sculpture, he is older and there are wrinkles emphasized, showing the age of the President and giving him a more human quality. According to church records, the bust was donated to the church by congregant Shubael Bell in 1815. The grant also allowed Old North Illuminated (formerly Old North Foundation of Boston) to restore the 1726 Avery-Bennett clock located in the church’s sanctuary. Both artifacts are historically significant to Old North Church and of great interest to visitors. They provide a unique opportunity to hear the same clock ticking that Paul Revere and Queen Elizabeth II heard, and to study the bust of Washington that Lafayette paused to reflect on. They are tangible connections to the past. (fb)

Today, we proudly recognize #VietnamVeteransDay, a time to honor and thank our Vietnam veterans and their families for their service and sacrifice. Their bravery and dedication have left a lasting impact on our nation. Join us in recognizing their contributions by reaching out to a Vietnam veteran, sharing their stories and expressing your gratitude. Let’s ensure these heroes receive the recognition they deserve. (fb)