The Elizabeth Denton English Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution is conducting a membership drive as part of a nationwide celebration to commemorate the 125th anniversary of the founding of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution. All women who can document descent from a Revolutionary War Patriot are encouraged to consider the many benefits of joining the vibrant service organization, which has promoted historic preservation, education and patriotism since its formation in 1890.

“Our chapter, which was organized in 1990 carries out the important mission of the National Society on the local level,” said Chapter Regent Susan Few. “We are eager to welcome new members to our chapter, and we have volunteers available to help them research and complete their genealogy in order to apply for membership.”

Due to the ability to exchange and obtain genealogical information over the internet, interest in joining the DAR is at an all-time high, with six of the highest years of application submittals occurring in the last decade. The Genealogical Research System (GRS), which is a free online resource provided by the DAR to aid general genealogical research and to assist with the DAR membership process, has made joining the DAR even more accessible to many women. Explore these resources at .

“Truly, there has never been a more exciting time to join the DAR. We offer today’s busy woman an opportunity to celebrate the joys of American citizenship in meaningful ways, and we are enthusiastic about the future of our Society,” said National Society DAR President General Lynn Forney Young, who noted that there are currently nearly 180,000 members of the DAR, serving in nearly 3,000 chapters across the nation and in several foreign countries. “I extend a warm invitation to all eligible women to join us in a rewarding future of service to America.”

Since its founding 125 years ago, more than 940,000 women have been inducted into membership. During the current three-year administration coinciding with the 125th anniversary celebration, the organization has issued a challenge to complete 10 million hours of service to America. Local DAR chapters nationwide are coordinating service projects in honor of DAR’s 125th anniversary throughout the year and members from coast to coast will participate in the National DAR Day of Service on October 11, 2015.

“From caring for veteran patients to assisting active duty service personnel, from preserving locations of historic significance to welcoming new citizens, there are thousands of ways that Daughters are proudly answering the call to service in their local communities,” said Few. “Here in our area of East Texas, the Elizabeth Denton English Chapter, for example, serves by supporting veterans, providing a yearly scholarship to a Mineola student, encouraging conservation, commemorating historic events throughout the year. We are proud to carry out DAR’s mission to celebrate our American way of life.”

Few invited women who are interested in membership to visit and to contact the local chapter at 903-569-3286 or to obtain more information.