About the Eau Claire Chapter
of the NSDAR
He that stands by it now ,deserves the love and thanks of man and woman. – Thomas Paine, 1776
Connect with History Through
DAR Membership
The Eau Claire Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) is a vibrant community of women located in the heart of Wisconsin’s Chippewa Valley. Like our sister chapters across the nation and the world, we share a direct lineage to the patriots who achieved American independence. We are passionate about honoring that heritage through active engagement in historic preservation, education, and patriotism right here in Eau Claire and the surrounding areas. We invite you to learn more about our history, our mission, and the meaningful work we do together.
https://www.weau.com/content/news/100-years-later-Eau-Claire-DAR-still-thriving-481920461.html
A Legacy of Service
The Eau Claire Chapter of the NSDAR was founded on May 7, 1918, and was considered the “most remote, frontier chapter in Wisconsin” at that time. We have proudly served our community for over 100 years. Eighteen women filed the initial papers to create this chapter. Since then, generations of women have joined our ranks, united by their patriot ancestors and a commitment to the timeless principles of the DAR. We carry forward a legacy of service, friendship, and dedication, continually seeking ways to make a positive impact in the Chippewa Valley area. To date, the Eau Claire Chapter awards the highest number of DAR Good Citizens program awards in Wisconsin.
Our Mission
As part of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, the Eau Claire Chapter is dedicated to promoting the core objectives established by our national organization:
Historic Preservation
We are dedicated to safeguarding the stories and landmarks that define our nation’s past.
Supporting Education
We are passionate about fostering knowledge and promoting educational opportunities for all.
Celebrating Service
We are actively recognizing and supporting the sacrifices made by our veterans and active service members.
What We Do / Our Activities
Good Citizen Program
The DAR Good Citizens program recognizes and rewards high school seniors who exhibit outstanding qualities of good citizenship. Interested seniors should contact their school counselor early in the year to learn more about competing before the November 15 deadline.
Scholarships
The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) offers numerous scholarships for graduating high school seniors, college, and graduate students who are United States citizens planning to attend accredited institutions, with applications accepted annually between November 1 and January 31. Specific details on eligibility, various fields of study covered, and the online application portal are available on the national DAR website.
Camp Victory
The Eau Claire Chapter NSDAR proudly provides charter support for Camp Victory in Willard, WI, a nature preserve dedicated to healing and connection for Veterans and First Responders. Camp Victory offers diverse outdoor activities and hands-on experiences, fostering practical skills, supportive community, and healing camaraderie.
Veterans Home at Chippewa Falls
Members volunteer and fundraise for the Chippewa Valley Veterans Home in Chippewa Falls. We support activities such as golf outings, dinner events, ball games, Honor Flights, and more. Eau Claire Daughters also serve on the Recreation Committee Board for the home.
Wreaths Across America
Eau Claire Daughters are big supporters of this nationwide program. We not only sell wreaths each year, but we also volunteer to place wreaths on military graves across the Chippewa Valley.
Ft. Winnebago Surgeon’s Quarters
Our members actively preserve historic buildings and landmarks within their communities. Notably, the Wisconsin Society DAR owns and maintains the historic Ft. Winnebago Surgeon’s Quarters in Portage, the last remaining structure of the outpost, now operated as a museum and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Cook-Rutledge Mansion
Our chapter proudly supports the historic Cook-Rutledge Mansion in Chippewa Falls, a stately tribute to the area’s influential logging families. Built in 1887, this beautifully preserved home remains furnished as it was during its prime, offering a valuable snapshot of local history.
Meet Our Chapter Leadership
The Eau Claire Chapter is guided by a dedicated team of elected officers who volunteer their time and talents to manage chapter business and coordinate our activities. Our current officers for the 2025-2027 term are:
Ruth Anderson
chapter regent
Mary Randall
vice regent
Ruth “Emma” Diestelmeier
secretary
Crystal Kusko
treasurer
Amy Hong
chaplain
Gloria Smit
registrar
Beth Pfeifer
historian
Georgia Smith
honorary chapter regent
Member Stories and Testimonials
This section features heartfelt testimonials from our members, reflecting their pride and joy in being part of the Eau Claire DAR chapter.
Joining the Eau Claire DAR has been a truly enriching experience, connecting me with inspiring women who share my passion for history and service.
Melissa Reilly
chapter member
I wish I had joined the Daughters of the American Revolution long ago. As a member, I see first-hand the outstanding work the women of DAR accomplish in their communities. Our work at the national level is powerful and exciting.
Ruth Anderson
chapter regent
Join Us to Honor Your History
Discover the benefits of becoming a member and contributing to a meaningful legacy.