Today's DAR
An extraordinary initiative is under way in the Office of the Historian General! The placement of Revolutionary War Grave markers, historical and/or commemorative monuments and tablets by the National Society, states and chapters, originated early on in the history of the Daughters of the American Revolution. During DAR’s Golden Jubilee celebration (1940) the Historical Research Committee established a Card-Indexing project for the purpose of collecting and documenting vital historical data connected with the placement and dedication of these memorials. Within the first two years, over 10,000 cards were filed with 35 states contributing.
Marker Card Project Sparkles!
During the 1990s, essential processes and forms were adopted and streamlined to ensure that information which appears in the text of DAR markers is carefully reviewed and vetted prior to marker placement, and that appropriate permission is obtained to place a DAR marker. Additionally, during the late 90s steps were taken to modernize record keeping with the implementation of an Access database. This application was adopted circa 1997 and is still used to maintain records of Revolutionary War grave marker applications and marker placements today. All Historical and Commemorative marker as well as Revolutionary War grave marker applications (paper format) submitted since the early 1990s are maintained in the NSDAR archives.
So, in 2022, with 177,000 index cards containing irreplaceable marker data, a historic preservation call-to-action rang out. A plan, to tell this part of our DAR story, from 1890 to the early 2000s, for members and future generations was instituted. The “Historian General Marker Card Project” is a three-step initiative, with each part containing multiple phases.
Step one – imaging/scanning the cards has been completed;
Step two (a multi-phased step is in process) – the development of an indexing program is complete and the actual indexing of each card is in progress;
Step three – building a searchable database of the different categories of DAR markers where members can access.
Currently, over 1100 dedicated volunteers have already completed the first of seven phases within step two, by indexing the cards for marked Revolutionary War graves and are currently working on the located Revolutionary War grave cards. This treasure trove of information will soon become accessible to members using a search feature available on the DAR website after Continental Congress.
Indexing the cards is very simple, and the work can be done at home, at any time, by anyone with an internet connection and an email address. Attention to detail is key and training will be provided by project lead Susan Holt, DAR Genealogy Preservation National Vice Chair of New Project Development. To learn more, visit the DAR Genealogy Preservation Committee or join the Daughters Online Community (DOC).
Volunteer today by completing the Registration Form and receive further information about this exciting and meaningful project!
Just imagine the thrill of transcribing DAR marker information for one of the Founding Fathers or even your own Patriot! This dazzling legacy connects us to our Patriot ancestors and our nation’s history through the many DAR markers the National Society has placed since its founding. Celebrate Stars & Stripes Forever! by volunteering for the Historian General’s Marker Card Project!
