Echoes of Kin Genealogy, LLC

Welcome to the Echoes of Kin Genealogy Blog, your resource for exploring ancestral connections and understanding historical lineage. Today, we’re delving into one of the most prominent lineage societies in the United States: The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR). If you’ve been considering joining this esteemed organization, you’re likely wondering about the requirements and the application process. This guide will walk you through what’s needed to become a DAR member.

What is the DAR?

The DAR is a non-profit, non-political volunteer women’s service organization dedicated to promoting historic preservation, education, and patriotism. Founded in 1890, the DAR plays a significant role in honoring the patriots of the American Revolutionary War and preserving their legacy for future generations.

Eligibility Requirements for DAR Membership

The core requirement for DAR membership is demonstrating direct lineal descent from a patriot who aided in achieving American independence. Here’s a breakdown of the key criteria:

~ Be a Woman

Membership is open to any woman 18 years of age or older.

~ Prove Lineal Blood Descent

You must be able to prove direct lineal blood descent from an ancestor who rendered aid to the cause of American independence during the Revolutionary War. This means that every generation from you back to the patriot ancestor must be proven through official documentation.

~ Identify a Patriot Ancestor

Your patriot ancestor must have provided “service” during the American Revolutionary War. This service isn’t limited to military participation. It can include:

• Signers of the Declaration of Independence
• Military Service: Soldiers, sailors, marines, and militiamen.
• Civil Service: Government officials, judges, jurors, and those who took oaths of allegiance.
• Aid to the Cause: Furnishing supplies, providing medical care, or other documented support to the American forces.
• Patriotic Service: Recognized as a “Patriot” by the DAR based on a review of historical records.

The DAR maintains a comprehensive Genealogical Research System (GRS) database where you can search for approved patriot ancestors. If your ancestor is already in their database, it can significantly streamline your application process.

The Application Process: Steps to Membership

Joining the DAR involves a thorough genealogical research and application process. Here are the general steps:

~ Preliminary Research

Before contacting a chapter, it’s beneficial to conduct some preliminary research on your own family tree. Focus on identifying potential Revolutionary War ancestors and gathering initial documentation that links you to them.

~ Contact a Local DAR Chapter

This is a crucial step. Local DAR chapters have registrars who are experienced genealogists and can provide invaluable assistance. They can help you:

• Review your preliminary research: Determine if you have a viable line of descent.
• Identify a qualifying patriot: Guide you in finding an ancestor who meets DAR criteria.
• Explain documentation requirements: Detail the specific types of records needed.
• Assist with the application form: Help you properly fill out the official DAR application.

You can find a local chapter by visiting the official DAR website.

~ Gather Documentation

This is often the most time-consuming part of the process. You will need to provide verifiable documentation for each generation connecting you to your patriot ancestor. This may include:

• Birth Certificates: For yourself, your parents, grandparents, etc.
• Marriage Certificates: For all marital links in your lineage.
• Death Certificates: To establish dates and relationships.
• Wills and Probate Records: Can often confirm familial relationships.
• Census Records: Useful for placing individuals in time and location.
• Cemetery Records: Gravestones can provide birth and death dates.
• Church Records: Baptisms, marriages, and burials.
• Bible Records: Family Bibles can contain valuable genealogical information, often requiring verification.
• Pension and Service Records: For proof of your patriot’s service.

All documentation must be from primary or reliable secondary sources and clearly demonstrate the lineal connection.

~ Complete the Application Form

With the guidance of your chapter registrar, you will complete the official DAR application form. This form requires you to meticulously detail your lineage, citing all supporting documentation for each fact.

~ Application Review and Approval

Once submitted, your application will be reviewed by the chapter registrar, then forwarded to the State Society Registrar, and finally to the National Society’s genealogists in Washington, D.C. They meticulously verify every piece of information and every link in your lineage. This process can take several months.

If your application is approved, you will officially become a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution!

Resources for Your Journey

• DAR Website: The official website of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution is an excellent starting point for information, searching for chapters, and using their genealogical resources.
• GRS: A powerful online database for searching patriot ancestors and existing lineage lines.
• Local Libraries and Historical Societies: Often have extensive genealogical collections and knowledgeable staff.
• Professional Genealogists: If you encounter difficulties, don’t have the time, or need some assistance a professional genealogist, like Echoes of Kin Genealogy, specializing in DAR applications can provide expert guidance.

Joining the DAR is a profound way to connect with your heritage, honor the sacrifices of those who founded the United States, and contribute to a vibrant community dedicated to service. While the application process requires dedication and meticulous research, the rewards of membership are truly priceless.

For further assistance, consider attending a local chapter informational meeting or contacting your nearest DAR chapter. You can also explore more detailed guidance on genealogical research by contacting us to assist you with your research and application process.

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