Members of the Jonathan Hardin Chapter, NSDAR met May 8, 2019 at the Gibbs Memorial Library in Mexia, Texas.
Regent Nancy McSwane led members in the DAR Ritual. Regent McSwane introduced Grayson “Gracie” Myers (at right) from Teague ISD, who is the Jonathan Hardin Chapter Scholarship recipient. Grayson is a wonderful young lady who has participated in many activities with numerous accomplishments throughout her school years. Miss Myers was well represented by her parents and grandmothers.
Regent McSwane introduced the guest speaker, Sandi Bassett. Mrs. Bassett is a member of the Nancy Horton Davis Chapter in Dallas and has served in many positions including past State Chaplain. She is a member of 26 hereditary organizations which is a great accomplishment.
Mrs. Bassett’s program was about the founding of the National Society and four amazing women , Mary Desha, Mary Lockwood, Ellen Walworth, and Eugenia Washington. In 1889, Sons of the American Revolution had been formed and voted not to allow women into their group. This set off a firestorm.
An article was placed in the Washington Post written by Mrs. Lockwood, stating that women had contributed much to the Revolution. She said the women were not being recognized, “Were there no mothers of the Revolution”? During this time a proper woman’s role was limited to “children, church and the kitchen”. This certainly did not describe these women. Two worked for the government, one was a published author, and the other, an attorney, who also gave lectures on parliamentary law. These four women lay the groundwork for the society. A meeting was held at the White House to ask 1st Lady Caroline Scott Harrison to be the President General of the Society, she accepted.
On October 11, 1890, eighteen women and four men met in Washington for the purpose of organizing the Daughters of the American Revolution. When women put their mind to it anything can be accomplished.
Chaplain Marsha Black, dismissed the members with a benediction.
Any woman 18 years or older, regardless of race, religion, or ethnic background, who can prove lineal descent from an ancestor who aided in achieving American independence is eligible for membership. For more information about joining the Jonathan Hardin Chapter, NSDAR please contact Regent Nancy McSwane at 254-359-4620 or Registrar Billie Bournias at 903-389-3592.
