This weekend my thoughts are with my ancestors. A longtime dream of mine came true as I was officially welcomed into the National Society of Daughters of the American Revolution at the Seminole Chapter meeting in West Palm Beach, FL. Well over a decade ago, I learned that I was a descendent of a patriot who served as a soldier during the Revolutionary War. With my interest in historical preservation and education, DAR was a perfect fit for me. But not so fast! That led me on an extended journey to document seven generations to provide proof for membership.
Nathaniel Thurber, my patriot and great-great-great-great grandfather
James Thurber, my great-great-great grandfather
William Thurber, my great-great grandfather
Laura Thurber Roasa, my great-grandmother
Gladys Roasa Barr, my grandmother
Rosemary Barr Mohr, my mother
Linda Mohr (Me)
Nathaniel Thurber was born on April 13, 1761, in Providence, Rhode Island. He enlisted in 1776 and served as a private in the Revolutionary War until 1779 in Massachusetts as well as at the Burning of Bristol, Rhode Island. He married Polly Shores in 1792 and their son James served in the War of 1812. Some of my most interesting research was locating (with the help of a kind farmer) the abandoned church cemetery near East Carthage, Illinois, where James is buried. Imagine my excitement when I found the inscribed War of 1812 tombstone standing erect amidst overgrown grass and toppled headstones. The documentation process included getting proof of my linkage including birth, death and marriage certificates, church records, census reports and obituaries.
The DAR insignia pin is a beautiful gold wheel. I will wear it over my heart with tremendous pride for what those who have gone before me have done. I love the meaning behind each part:
THE HUB: Each loyal Daughter’s heart
EACH SPOKE: A thought of those from whom we part
THE TIE: A noble life well rounded out
EACH STAR: A deed of kindness as we go about
EACH FLAXEN THREAD: A cord of love to bind us closer day by day
THE DISTAFF: A rod of love to guide us all the way
For more information, visit http://www.dar.org
Bountiful Blessings!
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October 12, 2008 at 3:58 pm
thescribespen
Congratulations on your induction into the DAR. My mother-in-law and her sisters became members last year, and they have so much fun sharing the experience together. They have been visiting many cemeteries and are enjoying filling in the gaps of their ancestry.
Blessings!
Vicki
October 12, 2008 at 4:53 pm
lindamohr
Thanks. Maybe someday I will meet your relatives at a meeting. Every year DAR has a Continental Congress in Washington D.C. at the national headquarters. From what I understand, it is quite an experience.