Chapter History

Thursday evening, January 30, 1930, a meeting of all the ladies of Whittier and vicinity, who knew they were eligible for membership in the DAR, met at the home of Mrs. L. D. Dickerson. The purpose of this meeting was to organize the John Greenleaf Whittier Chapter, NSDAR.

Seven members were present at the March 17th, 1930, organizing meeting. Possible chapter names submitted were: “Betsy Place,” “Ye Friendly,” and “Whittier.” We were given the name “Whittier.” The “John Greenleaf” was added in 1975. Ida Knight was elected as our first regent. While most of our regents have served two-year terms, two have served two terms.

Over the years, our membership has averaged 110, reaching as high as 143 in 2005-2006.

Our chapter has consistently reached the highest national level in Chapter Achievement Awards.

Thanks to hard-working American History and DAR Good Citizens chairs, we have had many of our winners advance and win at the district level.

In 1955 the John Greenleaf Whittier Chapter, NSDAR, was involved in protecting a walnut tree on Whittier Boulevard. There is a commemorative plaque in the park with the chapter name.

Members have been involved in promoting the DAR by riding in the Whittier Founders Day and Christmas Parades, attending Memorial Day events, and passing out flags and literature.

In 2008-2010 we purchased a Liberty Cart for the Loma Linda VA Medical Center.

In 2008, the founder and director of the Whittier-based Bridge of Faith, a nonprofit organization meeting needs of aged-out foster girls and women facing homelessness, won the Community Service award at the chapter, district, state, and national level. 

In 2010-2012 our chapter donated funds to the historic Whittier Bailey House to replace the wallpaper in the children’s room.
      
Our program chairs bring us monthly speakers who are interesting, informative, and often keep us laughing! While the first meetings were held in homes, and then in various other locations, we have been very fortunate to have our monthly luncheon meetings at a beautiful country club in the Whittier area. Getting together with chapter sisters is a time we all enjoy!

National Society Daughters of the American Revolution

California State Society Daughters of the American Revolution