Is someone in your chapter available to answer my questions about eligibility?
Yes. Please email us with your questions and someone will respond promptly. We have many longtime members who have vast experience in the DAR as well as many who are quite proficient in genealogy and family research. We are happy to help you determine if you are eligible for membership.

My (grandmother, cousin, aunt, etc.) is/was a member. Can I join using her information?
Yes, as long as your relationship is lineal (direct line) and that you submit your own appropriate information as well. You may also be asked to verify proofs concerning previous generations as the requirements have become more precise. All generations, starting with the applicant, must have proof of birth, marriage, and death. There must also be documentation regarding the service of the patriot. These proofs may include photocopies of wills, birth/death certificates, notarized copies of Bible records or photos of Bible records, land records, or census records from 1850 on. Any previously submitted item need not be resubmitted.

What is "lineal" descent?
Lineal descent means a direct bloodline descent, not a relationship through marriage. For example, if your husband's mother is a member, you are not eligible to join on her papers, but your daughter or granddaughter would be. If you are a member and your husband's sister is a member, your daughter would be eligible to join on both sides--through her mother's line (you) and her father's line (his sister).

Is there an organization available for children? If so, is it only for girls?
The National Society of the Children of the American Revolution is for children under the age of 21, both boys and girls.

The following are the eligibility requirements under the National Bylaws to become a member of the National Society Children of the American Revolution.

"Any boy or girl under the age of twenty-one is eligible for membership in the National Society of the Children of the American Revolution who is lineally descended from a man or woman who, with unfailing loyalty, rendered material aid to the cause of American Independence as a soldier, sailor, civil officer, or recognized patriot in one of the several Colonies or States, or of the United States, provided that the applicant is personally acceptable to the Society." (Article III, National Bylaws)

For information you may also contact the National Society at:

N.S.C.A.R. 1776 D Street, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20006-5392 Telephone: (202) 638-3153 Fax: (202) 737-3162 E-mail: hq@nscar.org

How can I find a DAR chapter in my area?
The National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution has a web site. In the right column of the Membership page there is a place to click on "Prospective Member Information Request Form." Click on that and a form comes up. The information from that form will then be sent to the appropriate State Membership Chairman.

On both the main page and the membership information page there is a section that lists chapters by state and city. Those chapters will all have a contact method on their page.

You may also contact the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution by mail. Write to the Registrar General, NSDAR, 1776 D Street, NW, Washington, DC 20006. She will forward your request to the appropriate chapters.