Opinion

DAR members learn of first patriots' daughters

Monday, November 5, 2007

Molly Foster Berry Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution, met in the DAR Room at 1 p.m. at Memorial Hall with Bernita Hill as hostess.

Regent Mary Ann French called the meeting to order at 1:30 p.m. A recitation of the "Ritual," "Pledge of Allegiance" to the flag and "The American's Creed" was recited. There were six members present.

The president's general message was read by the regent. The National Defense Report was given by Nolene Whiteside. Bernita Hill gave an Indian minute on Nov. 20. Bacone College celebrated National Indian Heritage month and Chemawa school in Salem, Ore.

Minutes of the previous meeting were read by Grace Hendrix. The treasurer's report was given by the Treasurer Nolene Whiteside. A Constitution minute by the regent,, "Know your Constitution," was delivered. Ola Mae Earnest gave a report about the Friends of the Library, Project Patriot activities, and asking for donations. Avis sent Mrs. Good a "thinking of you" card. A card of acceptance to Four Winds' invitation in April of next year was sent by the corresponding secretary.

Bernita Hill gave the program about the Daughters of the first patriots. Seven hundred and seventy were alive when DAR was formed in 1890. Mary Hammond (1819-1901) was first to be recognized. In 1905 PIA DAR began to locate daughters who needed financial assistance. In 1908, three daughters received $8 a month. It later raised to $25 a month. These first daughters included wives, mothers, medical doctors and founders of colleges (Bradley). The last to die was Annie Gregory (1843-1943) of Pennsylvania. She was going to be 100 years old. Recent efforts have updated birth and death records and are working to ensure that graves of all 770 are marked. Each of them had received a gold spoon with the DAR number when located and accepted into membership. Many local DAR chapters bear their names today.

Two members attended the DAR luncheon in Iola on Oct. 27.

A motion was made and seconded to make a presentation of a medal to the Reserve Officers Training Corps at Fort Scott Community College. The hostess was thanked for refreshments, and the meeting was adjourned with the "Daughter's Pledge."

-- Submitted

by Grace Hendrix