Connect With Your Heritage Through DAR Membership
We must all hang together, or assuredly we shall all hang separately. – Benjamin Franklin, 1776
Celebrate Your Heritage and Make a Difference
Joining the Daughters of the American Revolution connects you with a vibrant community of women who share a direct lineage to the patriots who secured American independence. The Eau Claire Chapter offers friendship, purpose, and opportunities to honor your heritage right here in the Chippewa Valley. Explore how you can become part of this esteemed lineage society dedicated to historic preservation, education, and patriotism.
Who can join the Eau Claire Chapter of DAR?
Membership is open to women over 18 who can trace their lineage to American Revolution patriots.
Patriot Ancestor Requirements
Patriots include not only soldiers but also those who provided civil service (such as serving in colonial government) or patriotic service (such as donating significant supplies or taking oaths of allegiance) during the Revolutionary War period of about 1774-1783.
How can I learn more about my eligibility?
Reach out to us for guidance on tracing your lineage and verifying eligibility requirements.
Core Eligibility Requirements
Membership in the DAR is open to any woman, 18 years or older, regardless of race, religion, or ethnic background, who can prove lineal descent from a patriot of the American Revolution. This means tracing your family tree directly back to an ancestor who contributed to the cause of independence.
What activities does the DAR participate in?
We engage in community service, historical preservation, educational initiatives, and patriotic events.
What We Do
We honor high school seniors through the Good Citizen Award and national DAR scholarships. We also demonstrate our commitment to veterans through Camp Victory, volunteering, and fundraising for the Veterans Home at Chippewa Falls, among many other activities.
How do I get started with my membership application?
Contact us, and we’ll assist you with the application process and provide the necessary resources.
5 Step Process
The Path to Membership
The process of joining involves genealogical research to document your lineage connection to a Revolutionary War patriot ancestor. While it requires careful documentation, our chapter members, particularly our Registrar, are here to guide you through the steps.
Step 1: Trace Your Family Tree
Start with yourself and work backward, generation by generation, collecting names, dates, and places. Utilize family records, online databases, and library resources.
Step 2: Identify Your Patriot Ancestor
Research potential ancestors who lived during the Revolutionary War period and determine if they provided eligible service. The DAR Genealogical Research System (GRS) is a key tool.
Step 3: Gather Documentation
Collect acceptable proof documents (like birth, marriage, and death certificates) connecting each generation in your lineage back to the patriot ancestor. You’ll also need proof of the ancestor’s service.
Step 4: Connect with Our Chapter
Gain valuable insights with advanced data analytics capabilities to make informed decisions.
Step 5: Complete and Submit Your Application
Work with our Registrar to finalize your application paperwork and submit it with the required documentation and fees to the National Society DAR for verification.
Join a Community Rooted in American Heritage
Discover how you can honor your ancestors, connect with like-minded women, and make a lasting impact in your community. Take the next step and join us today!