The Daughters of the American Revolution is an organization built around historic preservation, education, and patriotism.
Bringing History Alive
The Great Bridge Chapter, NSDAR, has commemorated the Battle of Great Bridge for over 121 years. This battle is known as one of the shortest and most significant in the Revolutionary War. The memorial monument at the site is one of the first approved by National Society Daughters of the American Revolution in the late 1890s, and was dedicated in December of 1900.
The original monument (left) is located near the Chesapeake City Hall. A new monument (right) was erected at the site as one of Mary Jane Irwin Davis’, Virginia DAR State Regent, projects.
Flag Day is honored every June 14th and commemorates the date that the Flag Resolution was passed in 1777, adopting what we now know as the flag of the United States.
The Great Bridge Chapter, NSDAR, has been holding this commemoration for over fifty years. The public ceremony takes place at the MacArthur Memorial in Norfolk, Virginia.
Historic Preservation
Preserving our past helps to ensure our future. From the preservation of historic cemeteries to the raising of historical markers, we work to ensure that those who come after us are able to see and understand our heritage. We annually commemorate the Battle of Great Bridge, our namesake, which was the first Revolutionary War land battle in Virginia.
Education
The yearly celebration of Constitution Week highlights the events around the writing and ratification of this important document. The week is marked by a proclamation by the Mayor of Norfolk, ringing of the bells on September 17th, passing out copies of the Constitution and posters to local schools and libraries, and much more.
Our chapter also supports scholarships to college students in the Native American community, along with material support such as masks during the pandemic.
Patriotism and Community
Our chapter shows our love of country through a number of activities and collaborations, including:
- Supporting naturalization ceremonies
- Participating in Veterans Day Parades
- Participating in Wreaths Across America
- Honoring Patriot ancestors on social media
- Volunteering and providing financial support to Vetshouse, the Hampton Veterans Affairs Spinal Cord Injuries Clinic, Troopster, and the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore
Member Engagement and Social Activities
Daughters come in all ages and from all walks of life and welcoming all with open arms is part of what makes our chapter great. New members are paired with a mentor to ensure that she feels connected to our chapter and together they help each new member find her passion within the NSDAR.
That personal connection keeps going with our Smiles Brigade, who drive by members’ homes to bring some cheer when needed, and with opportunities to go “Walking with the Regent” for a one-on-one conversation about just about anything.
Our chapter offers a wide array of engagement activities that are both educational and fun. From social happy hours and teas to museum visits and speakers on a range of topics, there’s always something going on, no matter your interest.
