Molly Foster Berry studies the flag

Molly Foster Berry DAR met in the DAR Room in Memorial Hall, at 10 a.m., June 20, with Grace Hendrix as hostess. Coffee, fruit and pastry was served.

The meeting was called to order by Regent Mary Ann French, with the usual protocol of the reciting of the Ritual, Pledge of Allegiance, and the American's Creed. The President's general message was read by the Regent.

In 1620, the Mayflower came to America with three pregnant women aboard and only one child lived to adulthood. Benjamin Franklin brought the first newspaper to America and we have the DAR Magazine, which was started in 1892 and still publishes today.

Nolene Whiteside read the National Defense report. The USO opened a center in Iraq and celebrates its 67th anniversary.

The minutes of the previous meeting were read by Secretary Grace Hendrix and corrected. The Treasurer's report was given and remained the same.

A Constitution Minute was given, entitled "Know Your Constitution."

Flag Day was June 14.

A discussion of next year's program with the committee's remaining the same. New business was discussed with the memorial service postponed.

Awards were presented to the Chapter for Outstanding Chapter Publicity, for Outstanding Achievement in Dedication in Service to veterans at the Veteran's Hospital, for outstanding Achievement of American Indians Committee and for Outstanding Achievement of the Constitution Week Committee Projects. The Chapter also received or attained Bronze level for The American Spirit Magazine.

The program was given by Mary Ann French about the flag and Betsy Ross.

George W. Morris and George Ross formed a secret committee to design the first flag in late May of 1776. Robert Morris owned a great amount of land and was the wealthiest man in the colonies. Col. George Ross was a respected Philadelphian and uncle of Betsy's late husband, John Ross. George Washington had often visited the Ross home and Betsy had embroidered ruffles and cuffs for his shirt, so he was aware of her sewing talents. In 1776, Betsy was a widow struggling to run her own upholstery business, in Colonial America upholstery not only worked in funiture but all manners of sewing, including flags. The original design by Washington had a six pointed star and Betsy showed him how to make a five point star.

The committee was so impressed that she was intrusted to make the first flag representing the American victory. Betsy had lost two husbands in the war and at one time the British used her house to lodge the soldiers. She continued to operate her business for several decades after the end of the war.

The meeting was adjourned with the recitation of The Daughter's Pledge.

-- Submitted by

Grace Hendrix, Secretary