This fall, the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) surpassed one million total members who have joined the organization since its founding in 1890. The DAR is a women’s service organization whose members can trace their lineage to an individual who contributed to securing American independence during the Revolutionary War.
The Courtney Spalding DAR Chapter has welcomed more than 150 members since the chapter began in 1926. Tamera (Tammy) Walker, inducted at the November 16th meeting, is the chapter’s first member with a number over one million.
Courtney Spalding is excited to join the National Society in celebrating this milestone by spotlighting members of the chapter through the years.
Throughout Courtney Spalding’s 93-year history, its membership has included many remarkable women from the local community.
Geneva Herndon, who began the speech pathology program at Fort Hays State University and for whom the FHSU speech-language-hearing clinic is named, was a member and served as regent of the Courtney Spalding Chapter from 1971-74.
Marianna Kistler Beach was awarded the prestigious DAR Medal of Honor for her charitable works locally, nationally and internationally. Beach later joined the organization, and her daughter, Terry Edwards of Hutchinson, is also a member of the Courtney Spalding Chapter.
Three generations of Courtney Spalding member Donna Schmidt’s family are members. Two daughters and five granddaughters are Courtney Spalding members, and two sons are members of the Sons of the American Revolution.
Schmidt said she joined as soon as she found out she qualified. Then she thought she “might as well get everybody in.”
These are just three of the one million women who have joined DAR since 1890. Each DAR member has a unique story, but all share a passion for historic preservation, education and patriotism and a dedication to her local community.
The Courtney Spalding DAR Chapter focuses much of its efforts on veterans’ projects.
If you are interested in learning more about DAR membership, contact membership chair Bunnie Bowen, [email protected] or (785) 259-2401.