The Fourth of July has become a time of celebration of the birth of the United States as an independent nation.
Being a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) has become a point of pride for me on that day. Through the DAR, the General John Stark Chapter, I have been able to document my lineage to my patriot ancestor who fought for our independence.
The General John Stark Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution has been active in this area since their first meeting at the home of Lucetta Stark on June 22, 1907. The chapter was named for General Stark who commanded 75% of the American Forces at Bunker Hill. Five of the original members of the chapter were descendants of the General.
The chapter is a non-profit, nonpolitical volunteer women’s service organization dedicated to promoting patriotism, preserving American history and securing America’s future through better education. Chapter projects to honor our ancestors are numerous, including student essay contests, scholarship opportunities, cemetery clean up, Wreaths Across America, and veterans projects.
Some of the incredible DeKalb County projects the chapter has been involved in are:
• An historical marker for the first court session in DeKalb County. The session was held at the home of Rufus Colton in July 11, 1837 because there was no courthouse building at that time. The marker is located 200 yards east of North First Street on Coltonville Road.
• Another historical marker is to memorialize the Somonauk United Presbyterian Church at Chicago Road and Gov. Beveridge Road in Somonauk. The Somonauk UP Church is the first building erected by settlers in DeKalb County.
• A third historical marker recognizing the first permanent settlement in DeKalb County is in Squaw Grove Township. The log cabin was erected by John Sebree in 1834 in Hinckley. The marker was moved in 1955 to the Hinckley Pioneer Park.
Becoming a member of the Daughter of the American Revolution in 2016 was quite an honor. The application process requires documentation of your family history. A detailed process establishes your pedigree with your patriot. For more information go to the chapter’s web site: https://ildar.org/chapters/generaljohnstark.
