WELCOME

The Commonwealth Chapter National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR or DAR) formed on February 6, 1902. The first chapter Regent was Mrs. Warner Moore. Mrs. Benjamin L. Purcell was the second chapter Regent and held this office for nineteen years. Mrs. William Wirt Henry, the first State Regent of Virginia, 1891 to 1898, was one of the organizing members in 1902.

 

There were two "Real Daughters" in the chapter. They were Mary Caroline Phillips Bennett (Mrs. John Charles F.) and Miss Julia G. Gardner. Their father was Dr. James Gardner of Massachusetts, who had served in the American Revolutionary War from 1780 to 1781 as a color bearer.

 

For over thirty years, Commonwealth Chapter, NSDAR played an important role in Richmond City. Some of its important accomplishments were the raising of a large sum of money for Liberty Bonds during World War I and the donation of funds for destitute children in the Near East. The chapter also brought Miss Mable Boardman to Richmond and assisted her in forming the first Red Cross unit in the city. Chapter members were also instrumental in preserving the Yeardley House in Jamestown and in restoring the bell tower in Capitol Square. In memory of Kate Waller Barrett, they restored and presented to the College of William & Mary women’s dormitory the gates previously used at the State Capitol.

 

We are proud descendants of those spirited men and women who aided in the fight for American independence. We believe in patriotic, historic, and educational ideals as embodied in our motto, "God, Home, and Country."

 

Chapter programs support the national objectives of historic preservation, education, and patriotism through participation in naturalization ceremonies by handing out flags to new citizens; creating displays at local libraries to observe and promote Constitution Week; instructing the public in correct flag etiquette by handing out flag codes; protecting natural resources through education and conservation efforts; and supporting local literacy programs, veteran hospitals, and DAR schools by volunteering and raising funds. Chapter members encourage good citizenship; service to God, Home, and Country; respect for the Flag of the United States of America; respect for the history and government of the United States of America; and respect for oneself by participating in educational activities. The chapter recognizes local senior high students who excel in qualities of dependability, service, leadership, and patriotism and award these students with the DAR Good Citizens Medal. The chapter honors elementary and middle school outstanding students with awards for excellence in American history and good citizenship.

 

NSDAR Motto: God, Home, and Country