A Brief History of the Units Overseas Committee and Introduction of Our Newest Chapter

The history of the Units Overseas (UO) Committee and its chapters is such a fascinating one. It began just seven years after our National Society was chartered. It spans much of world history during the 20^th century, reflecting world demographics, political climate and the vagaries of economics. As you know, for generations DAR members have and continue to live around the globe as teachers, members of the foreign service, military personal, corporate representatives, or descendants of those who were foreign born who fought or supported our revolutionary efforts. That was certainly true almost from the inception of our National Society. 

Our first overseas chapter was the Aloha Chapter formed in Honolulu, HI, on March 6, 1887.  Most of its members were or were descendants of missionaries who had settled many years earlier on the islands. From there, chapters began to form throughout the globe. By 1925, 10 more chapters had been formed, from Shanghai, China, to London in the UK; from Paris to the Canal Zone; and from Havana, Cuba, to Manila in the Philippines.  On this continent, chapters were located in Mexico and Alaska. The next few decades saw new chapters in Berlin, Germany, and Rome, Italy. 

During the World War II years, it was nearly impossible for these chapters to participate in any meaningful way and many struggled to survive. Following the war, the Units Overseas Committee was created in 1947, along with an eighth division containing these overseas chapters. It was listed as a Special Committee for Units Outside the United States with Mrs. Bruce Reynolds, Vice President General as its chair. She was charged with coordinating the activities of all foreign units. 

 “What can 11 dedicated daughters achieve in a mere few months? The answer is-nearly everything they want to do!  The organization of the Pacific Dogwood Chapter, in August, was accomplished with extraordinary collaboration and “stick-to-it-tive-ness,” thanks to our members and Cynthia McNamara, our guide.  We may be far flung geographically, but spiritually and socially, we are together.

Taking office, each officer felt a great sense of pride and a willingness to make our chapter a success. The Vice Regent developed essential tools for organization; and the Registrar created a Chapter Facebook page, keeping us active through zoom and social media. Our Recording Secretary keeps us on track through fast-paced sessions. 

Our Chaplain creates ways to support our continued spiritual needs. The Treasurer is managing our assets, projecting budget needs, and is addressing the challenges of Canadian banking with US connections.  Others assembled our bylaws and other items. Thanks to every single charter member for doing her part!

Our first project is the Denetia School, which focuses on teaching indigenous children about their culture and history told through music and art. Daughters donated multi-cultural themed books, musical instruments, art materials and much more. Our newest project involves working with local foresters and indigenous craftsmen to design and sell charcuterie boards and use part of this fundraiser’s profits to assist this group. 

We happily work toward our objectives and enjoy the support of the many Daughters who send kind messages. We welcome our new Associates and hope you’ll join us, too! See you at Congress!”