Fincastle Chapter

What is the NSDAR and Who is eligible to join?

The National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) was founded October 11, 1890 for historic, educational and patriotic purposes. Eighteen members enrolled for membership. The first Continental Congress of the NSDAR was held February 22-24, 1892 in Washington, DC with a membership of 1306. Grover Cleveland, the President of the United States, signed the Act of Congress that incorporated the NSDAR in 1896. Currently, there are over 170,000 members in 2,975 chapters throughout the United States, and in several foreign countries. The National headquarters is located in three adjoining structures in Washington, DC.

NSDAR Motto: God, Home and Country

NSDAR Objectives:

Historic Preservation

"To perpetuate the memory and spirit of the men and women

who achieved American independence."

Promotion of Education

"To promote, as an object of primary importance, institutions

for the general diffusion of knowledge, thus developing an

enlightened public opinion..."

Patriotic Endeavor

"To foster true patriotism and love of country."

The NSDAR is classified as an educational, nonprofit organization. The fundamental purpose of the NSDAR is to promote good citizenship through education.

The NSDAR is nonpolitical. Each member, Chapter and state society is cautioned to refrain from any activity performed in the name of the NSDAR which might be construed as political. The National Society maintains no lobby at national, state or local government levels, contributes to no political party nor to candidates in any way, initiates no legislation, and does not have a legislative chairman. The NSDAR is interested in preserving and maintaining our Constitutional Republic, and does strongly urge its members, as good American citizens, to be informed and vote.

The NSDAR has a long-standing policy of nonaffiliation. The purpose of this is to protect the name, prestige and integrity of the National Society. This safeguard is necessary because of the volume and variety of requests received, many of which have no bearing on the historic, educational or patriotic work of the Society.

The NSDAR firmly believes in a Constitutional form of government, a strong national defense and an effective foreign policy; energy conservation; conservation of our natural resources; voting rights; support of armed forces; education of our young people; strict enforcement of immigration laws; prayer in the schools and care for the Flag of the United States of America.

Any woman is eligible for membership who is not less than eighteen years of age and can prove lineal, blood line descent from an ancestor who aided in achieving American independence. Check Eligibility. She must provide documentation for each statement of birth, marriage, and death. Chapter members are willing and able to assist prospective members with the application process and necessary proof of generations. Guests are welcome to visit local chapter meetings. Admission to membership in the NSDAR is either by invitation through a Chapter in your State Organization or Unit Overseas. No Chapter may discriminate against an applicant on the basis of race or creed. For more information about the membership process, click on Membership Information. If you are interested in becoming a member, please contact the Fincastle Chapter.

Essential qualities of active members are:

• A knowledge of and interest in the objectives of the National Society
• A willingness to participate in the activities of the National Society and the Chapter.
• A realization that the strength, progress and achievement of the National Society depend upon an intelligent, informed, active local membership.

Last update 24 Sep 2003

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