Our Chapter
We are nearly 120 women of all ages and many varied walks of life. Our chapter is one of 18 DAR chapters in the District of Columbia, where we can easily take part in not only chapter activities, but those hosted by the DC State Society and our National Society, headquartered just off the National Mall.
Our membership is diverse not only in ages/generations, but in ethnic backgrounds as well. Many are very interested in genealogy, particularly research of Native American, Spanish, Irish and African ancestors who supported the American Revolutionary War. Others are interested in supporting and giving back to the community or just meeting new friends.
Our members bring a wide variety of experiences, including working in federal government agencies, the military, large and small businesses, and nonprofits. We work together for our community, learn from and mentor each other, and whenever we gather, we never fail to have a lot of fun!
Our National Society
The National Society of Daughters of American Revolution (DAR) , founded in 1890 and headquartered in Washington, DC, is a non-profit, non-political volunteer women’s service organization dedicated to promoting patriotism, preserving American history, and securing America’s future through better education for our children.
DAR members volunteer millions of service hours each year in their local communities. As one of the most inclusive genealogical societies in the country, DAR boasts approximately 190,000 members in 3,000 chapters across the United States and internationally.
FAQs
When and where do you meet?
Our regular chapter meetings are held on the second Saturday of the month, September through May, with a virtual option.
For the safety of our members during the pandemic, we have been holding all meetings online. When it is safe to do so, we meet in various locations in the D.C. area including members' homes, museums and historic sites, and even the NSDAR Headquarters (we take full advantage of our wonderful city!).
Why is your chapter's name so long?
In 2002, two long-standing chapters merged. The Colonel John Washington Chapter, organized in 1917, was named in honor of George Washington’s great-grandfather, John who came to the colonies from England. Katherine Montgomery Chapter, organized in 1902, was named for the great-grandmother of Mary Desha, the chapter's founder and one of the 4 founders of the NSDAR. Katherine Montgomery was a spy, who (it is said) concealed secret messages in her hair and whose fast horse could outrun the British. Our chapter now proudly carries both names (abbreviated as CJW-KM).
Do you have members my age?
Without knowing your age, we can only say...Yes! We are a truly multigenerational chapter with members of all ages and consider that diversity one of our chapter's greatest strengths.