Russellville DAR celebrates 100 years

In addition to Dasher, other chapter officers included Henderson, Vice Regent; Roberta Newman, Recording Secretary; Thompson, Corresponding Secretary; Craig, Treasurer; E.N. Nourse, Registrar; and Farmer, Historian.

Since the beginning, the chapters mission has been historic preservation, education, and patriotism. Although the organizations may have changed, the service given to the community remains the same.

Over the past 100 years, chapter members have honored patriots from the American Revolution with grave marking ceremonies, supported war efforts with blood drives during World War II, supported current service men and women by donating gifts and food to Fort Campbell families during the holidays, and honored deceased veterans by holding a ceremony for Wreaths Across America. They have supported local charities and donated items to various non-profits including First Choice Pregnancy Center, Barren River Area Child Advocacy Center, and Isaiah 117 House.

Bobbie Jean Burnett read a poem written for the occasion, which kicked off the meeting. In it, she mentioned various key points over the past century for the chapter.

During the celebration, Secretary Nell Jordan shared that there have been more than 300 Logan County residents to join the organization. Some of the highlights she shared were, “The first meetings were served in member’s homes, a different home each month.” The first permanent meeting place was the Women’s Club and later Crittenden Drive Church of Christ. The chapter now meets at the Caldwell House.

Jordan also shared one of the earliest fundraisers held by the chapter. “They held chain-teas. One person would have a tea and invite three people, everyone would pay 10 cents. Then each of those people held a tea, inviting three different people and each would pay 10 cents,” she explained.

In 1936, the chapter erected a monument in honor of Benjamin Logan (for whom the county was named), William Russell (for whom the county seat was named), and John Adair (for whom Adairville was named), which is on the Carrico Park Square in Russellville.

Once the floor opened for “I remember when” moments, Darlynn Moore shared, “I can tell you what the program was on March 10, 1982, and I don’t have to look at any papers.” Moore recounts that it was a Wednesday afternoon and she hated to miss this meeting, specifically, because the topic was George Browder’s diary, which many may recognize as “The Heaven are Weeping,” but she was in labor and delivered her son.

The meeting concluded with refreshments and additional reminiscing.

To be a member, you must be able to prove a blood-line descent from someone who served in the military or provided a variety of patriotic services. If you are interested in joining the DAR, you may contact Denise Shoulders at 270-847-9794.