 AKA, The Legal Stuff. The Sons of the American Revolution is a lineage organization. Those eligible to join must be 18 years old and able to prove blood descent back to an ancestor who contributed in some way to the cause of American Independence. Contributions range from military service, providing supplies to the military, administering to the wounded, and other support roles to the cause contributed by a male or female ancestor. The SAR, organized on April 30, 1889, and chartered by the United States Congress on June 6, 1906, is a historical, educational, and patriotic non-profit, United States 501(c)3, corporation that seeks to maintain and extend:
Our Purpose: "to perpetuate the memory of those who, by their services or sacrifices during the war of the American Revolution, achieved the independence of the American People. " The SAR has 28,000 members in over 500 chapters in the United States, Canada, France, Germany, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. Here in Illinois, there are more than 850 members in 17 chapters. Our membership includes men from all walks of life, all with a deep affection for America, its heritage and its institutions. If you think you qualify, please check out this page with more information on how to join.  There are nearly 50 members of the Illinois SAR Color Guard. Perhaps you have seen some of us during the Illinois State Fair parade, or during 4th of July, Memorial Day and Veterans Day events around the state, or during patriot recognition ceremonies. But that's not the only place you might see us. Some of us frequently visit schools and other organizations to foster patriotism and love of country.
 As Abigail Adams
said, "Remember the ladies . . ."
What would we do without them? The Illinois SAR Ladies Auxilliary is only six years old, but already has raised thousands of dollars to help the Society in carrying out its mission of inspiring patriotism and informing others of the contributions of our revolutionary ancestors. Membership in the Auxilliary is open to the wives, mothers, daughters, stepdaughters, sisters, aunts, nieces and other women relatives of members of the SAR who are in good standing. The ladies schedule many of their own events to coordinate with state BOM meetings. They sponsor raffles, coordinate the prizes, and add decorations to the tables. The current dues are $5 per year (which also makes a lady a member of the National Ladies Auxillary). Contact the Illinois Ladies Auxillary president for more information. Download a membership application here.  |
