Daughters of the American Revolution

When I confirmed that my daughter could sing the National Anthem at a local Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) event, I didn’t fully grasp the significance or impact it would have on me. I knew nothing about the DAR organization, and the event was scheduled just four days after Election Day. The Kushkushkee Trail Chapter of the National Society of the DAR hosted the commemorative grave marker event to honor Pennsylvanian Revolutionary War Patriot, John Walter.

The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution was established on October 11, 1890, during a period marked by a resurgence of patriotism and a keen interest in the origins of the United States. Women, eager to express their patriotic sentiments, were frustrated by their exclusion from men’s organizations dedicated to honoring ancestors who fought for the country’s independence. Consequently, a group of pioneering women in the nation’s capital founded their own organization, and the Daughters of the American Revolution has been a beacon of patriotism ever since.

The objectives established during the first meeting of the DAR have remained consistent over 125 years of dedicated service to the nation. These objectives are: Historical – to honor the memory and spirit of those who achieved American Independence; Educational – to fulfill Washington’s farewell address injunction to “promote, as an object of primary importance, institutions for the general diffusion of knowledge, thus developing an enlightened public opinion…”; and Patriotic – to uphold and extend American freedom, foster true patriotism and love of country, and secure all the blessings of liberty for mankind.

In addition to discovering the DAR and John Walter, I also learned about The American’s Creed. Despite my love for American history, I don’t recall ever encountering it before. In light of Tuesday’s election results, and my deep pride and love for the American people, I wanted to share it with my readers.

The American’s Creed is a statement of patriotism written by William Tyler Page in 1917. Here is the full text:

I believe in the United States of America as a government of the people, by the people, for the people; whose just powers are derived from the consent of the governed; a democracy in a republic; a sovereign Nation of many sovereign States; a perfect union, one and inseparable; established upon those principles of freedom, equality, justice, and humanity for which American patriots sacrificed their lives and fortunes.

I therefore believe it is my duty to my country to love it, to support its Constitution, to obey its laws, to respect its flag, and to defend it against all enemies.

This creed was adopted by the U.S. House of Representatives on April 3, 1918. It reflects the ideals and values that are fundamental to American national identity, echoing sentiments from the Declaration of Independence, the Preamble to the Constitution, and Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address.

May God bless the DAR and their work, Pennsylvania for its keystone role in America’s history, and may God continue to bless America as we approach our 250th birthday on July 4, 2026.