Texas State Visit

Returning home to Texas for the 126th State Conference filled my heart with joy as I reunited with the warm smiles and loving embrace of my fellow Texas Daughters. The name "Texas" itself derives from a Caddo word meaning "friendship" — a fitting description for these remarkable women. Our Texas Daughters not only serve as steadfast allies in advancing the National Society's DAR mission, but they also embody the true spirit of friendship in all they do for one another. A very special thank you to State Regent Susan Johnston for her leadership, my personal Pages, Gretchen Adams and Laura Weger and Susan Gaze for transportation.

- Pamela Wright, President General

The 126th Texas State Conference was held March 13-16, 2025 in Houston, exploring the theme “Texas Before the Lone Star.” The hostess chapters this year included the George Washington Chapter, Texas’ oldest chapter founded in 1895, as well as the Lady Washington Chapter, the largest chapter in the nation which was founded in 1898. The conference attracted over 1,000 attendees who gained insights into Texas' formative influences while celebrating members' contributions to the DAR mission of Historic Preservation, Education, and Patriotism.

The conference opened with a special address from the Vice-Consul of France, highlighting the Marquis de Lafayette's role as a "Hero of Two Worlds" in both the American and French Revolutions. A six-panel exhibition on Lafayette's life and legacy remained on display throughout the event. President General Pamela Wright delivered a warmly received keynote address on DAR friendships and presented 100% President General Project certificates to more than 100 chapters. The Junior recognitions were a highlight, honoring Christine Herron as Texas Honorary Junior for Life, Gwen Parks as Texas Outstanding Junior, and Ashley Tart as runner-up.

Conference activities included club meetings, award ceremonies, and a special appearance by a Bernardo de Galvez re-enactor. The Historic Preservation luncheon focused on Marie Felicite D'Estrehan, the Countess of Galvan (Galvez's wife) and her historical significance. Members were able to attend special programs, including using artificial intelligence (AI) in genealogy research, indexing patriot records, and protecting your digital life, among others. The conference concluded with a beautiful memorial service on Sunday morning.