Today's DAR
It was a joy for me to spend the weekend with Daughters from both Connecticut (for a small in-person hybrid conference) and Maine (via a completely virtual visit). The format and feel of these sessions were different, of course, from those of traditional meetings, but that could not keep these vibrant women from joyously reconnecting with each other in order to celebrate a year of outstanding accomplishments (made all the more significant given that they were achieved against the headwinds of the pandemic). Here are a few highlights from these two official state visits.
Celebrating Accomplishments — And Each Other
Connecticut
A dozen members gathered in the state capital of historic Hartford to orchestrate their weekend-long event with more than 100 attendees participating online. The reports of officers, committees and chapters were substantive and inspiring; award winners were simply outstanding. You can learn more about what is happening here in this short interview with Connecticut State Regent Christy Hendrie.
Though it is sometimes known as the Nutmeg State, did you know that Connecticut is officially nicknamed the Constitution State? It's believed that the state’s first constitution ("The Fundamental Orders" of 1638-39) inspired our own U.S. Constitution. It was therefore a joy to thank these generous women for their outstanding support of the restoration of DAR Constitution Hall, including recognition of those chapters that have already reached 100 percent participation through chapter donations. Thank you, State Regent Hendrie and Connecticut Daughters, for your generous gifts and hearts.
This State Society owns and lovingly tends five historic sites: Gov. John Trumbull House, Gov. Ellsworth Homestead, Matthies Hall, Wadsworth Stable and Washington Oak Tree Park. It was a pleasure to tour the first site listed during my visit: the home of Gov. Jonathan Trumbull, Connecticut’s Patriot governor and the only former British Colonial governor to later support the American Revolution. Thanks to the efforts of “Brother Jonathan,” a nickname given to the Governor by Gen. Washington, Connecticut sent essential supplies to the Continental Army. The home is also the birthplace of his son, John Trumbull, America’s Patriot artist, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Special thanks to the docents and hostesses who made our tour so delightful.
Throughout my time with them, I was moved time and again to learn the ways that Connecticut Daughters are devoted to honoring the memory of our Patriot ancestors. For example, on Friday evening, State Chaplain Lisa Melland discussed her recent creation of a short film focused on the life of Captain Stephen Betts, a Revolutionary War Patriot from New Canaan who fought in 13 battles and whose service included Yorktown and Valley Forge; the film also shares the story of his slave, Jesse. It is so important that we keep alive the memory and the spirit of our Revolutionary War ancestors in ways like this and strive to tell a more robust story of those who achieved our independence.
It was also truly exciting to learn that through the generosity of Connecticut’s honorary state regents, a fund has been established that will provide up to $500 to qualifying chapters for placing local Revolutionary War historic markers as we approach the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding. What a wonderful way to assist chapters in raising awareness of these men and women and increasing public knowledge of their sacrifices and accomplishments. Wow!
The 128th Connecticut State Conference was conducted at the beautiful and historic Town and County Club of Hartford. I was afforded the privilege of staying in what is called the Barbara Bush Suite, recognizing her frequent visits to the women’s club. Mrs. Bush, of course, was a member of DAR, and it was easy to understand why she so much enjoyed the beautiful accommodations here.
Maine
I was invited to bring greetings to the Maine Daughters on Saturday morning, and it was fun to share with them that I was joining them virtually from a room frequented by Mrs. Bush; she also, of course, spent a great deal of time at Kennebunkport, Maine, especially when it became the Summer White House during her husband’s presidency. What a fun connection!
I commend Maine State Regent Beverly Robbins for so capably presiding over a worthwhile 123rd Maine State Conference—given the complexities of doing so completely online. And I thank the Maine Daughters who so graciously participated and carried on with the important mission of our Society, albeit via their Zoom room. And I was particularly impressed by the small army of Pages who ensured that the conference proceeded smoothly. Truly: these Mainers demonstrated that no pandemic can get the best of DAR and our important work!
There are about 930 members of the Daughters of the American Revolution here in 22 Maine chapters, most of whom have already completed their 100 percent participation in the President General’s Project. They logged more than 28,000 hours of service last year and have thus far sewn more than 1,600 pieces of Personal Protective Equipment for their neighbors in need.
Mrs. Robbin's state regent's symbol is a Jewel, and her theme is "Veterans - America's Jewels,” which is inspired by a quote from Patrick Henry, "Liberty, the greatest of all earthly blessings - give us that precious jewel and you make take everything else." Her State Regent's Project supports the "Cabin in the Woods" at the Togus VA Medical Center in Chelsea, Maine. These homes provide permanent housing for 21 male and female veterans and their families who had previously been homeless. Located on 11 wooded acres on the grounds of the hospital, they provide easy access for veterans to walk to medical facilities. The undertaking is a joint venture between Volunteers of America, the State of Maine and the VA. Maine Daughters have already raised more than $6,000 in support of their $10,000 goal. What a marvelous testament to the relevancy of our shared purpose! Thank you, Maine Daughters, for your devotion to those who have worn the uniform of our nation.
I was honored to share remarks with them on Saturday evening through my virtual visit. These thoughtful ladies even composed an original song for my introduction, and I am touched by their thoughtfulness and the talent of Catherine Fisher of Rebecca Emery Chapter for doing so. (Don’t we meet the most amazing women through involvement in Today’s DAR?)
I was particularly moved at the conclusion of my visit that Mrs. Robbins presented me with a beautiful golden “wreath” charm so that I may be reminded of our special connection to Wreaths Across America, which is headquartered in Columbia Falls, Maine. Participation in this annual nationwide observance of laying wreaths upon the graves of veterans has been formally endorsed during our administration under the auspices of the DAR Service to Veterans Committee. We look forward to an exciting upcoming announcement regarding our further partnership with the Wreaths Across America in Maine in June – keep watching for this exciting news!
