On Nov. 6, twenty-four local Daughters of the American Revolution gathered at the George Washington Inn to commemorate the founding of Michael Trebert Chapter on Nov. 6, 1916.
The group celebrated with a high tea, and a presentation by Kay Garrison — a 49-year member of the DAR — about her memories of the chapter. Local author and D.A.R. member Sandra Frykholm shared insights she gained from transcribing a hand-written book of the chapter’s meeting minutes from 1916-1932.
The chapter, which began with a dozen charter members in 1916, now includes 62 members and 13 prospective members.
The DAR is a women’s service organization focusing on historic preservation, education and patriotism. Membership is open to any woman age 18 or older who can prove lineal descent from a person who contributed to the cause of the American Revolution.
Women of any race, religion, or ethnic background are eligible, according to the national website, dar.org.
Michael Trebert Chapter Registrar Ginny Wagner helps new applicants document their genealogy for eligibility.
“It’s been very exciting to help so many applicants this year,” Wagner said. At a recent meeting, 13 new members were welcomed.
About the chapter
Service has been a standard of the local chapter, beginning from its founding during World War I. Michael Trebert Chapter members made hats, socks, and handkerchiefs for soldiers, and joined the Red Cross. According to the chapter records, the women supported a French orphan and contributed funds to rebuild a French village.
During the 1920s, Frykholm discovered, the chapter began efforts to place historical markers at significant locations in Clallam County. This year, the chapter’s Historian, Mary Van Dyke, produced a book documenting the seven monuments erected by the local D.A.R. chapter over the years.
Chapter regent Judy Tordini described current projects, including sponsorship of Wreaths Across America honoring veterans buried in eastern Clallam County, an American Elm restoration project that will see elm trees planted in Forks, Port Angeles, and Sequim over the next three years, and the founding of a Junior American Citizens club to encourage civics education and community service among school-age children.
Women interested in DAR membership can call Wagner at 360-582-6820 or Tordini at 360-460-2346 for more information.
Kay Garrison, longtime Daughters of the American Revolution club member, shares stories of her experiences with Michael Trebert Chapter and her visit to Valley Forge, where her ancestor served under George Washington. Submitted photo
