Illinois SAR by the Numbers

1,000+
Active Members
17
Chapters Statewide
136
Years of Service (Since 1889)

From Chicago to Cairo, Springfield to Rockford — there's a chapter near you.

Our Mission

The Sons of the American Revolution honors our Revolutionary War patriot ancestors by promoting patriotism, serving our communities, and educating and inspiring future generations about the founding principles of our country.

Our Core Objectives

✓ Perpetuate the memory of the patriots who achieved American independence

✓ Preserve patriot records and mark Revolutionary War sites

✓ Educate students and the public about our Revolutionary heritage

✓ Inspire reverence for the founding principles of American government and democracy

✓ Connect descendants of Revolutionary War patriots through fellowship and community

America 250: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Celebration

□ FEATURED EVENT — July 8, 2026: National Declaration Reading. Join thousands of Americans reading the Declaration of Independence simultaneously—250 years after it was first read to the public.

Register for July 8th Event

From 2023-2033, we're commemorating the Decade of the American Revolution—and 2026 is the centerpiece. Illinois SAR chapters are leading celebrations across the state.

□ Liberty Tree Program

Designating Liberty Trees across Illinois communities—honoring the Revolutionary symbol where patriots gathered to discuss freedom.

2025 Dedications: Carlinville, Bolingbrook, Bloomington

2026: Your community could be next!

□ Youth Programs — Record Participation!

Essay, oration, poster, and brochure contests inspiring the next generation of patriots.

2024 National Champion: Shreya Nallamothu (IL) won BOTH Knight Essay AND Rumbaugh Oration!

□ Patriot Grave Dedications

Honoring Revolutionary War veterans resting in Illinois soil with ceremonies that engage schools, scouts, and communities.

□️ Color Guard

Our uniformed Color Guard represents SAR at parades, ceremonies, and schools—bringing living history to Illinois communities.

Full America 250 Event Calendar All Programs & Initiatives

Why Members Join — In Their Own Words

"Joining SAR connected me to history I never knew I had. Discovering my 5th-great-grandfather served under Washington gave me a profound sense of pride."

— John M., Fox Valley Chapter

"The genealogy support was incredible. Within months, I traced my line back to a patriot I'd never heard of. Now my grandchildren know their heritage."

— Robert T., Abraham Lincoln Chapter

"I joined for the history, but I stayed for the friendships. The compatriots in my chapter have become like family."

— William D., Fort Dearborn Chapter

1,000+ members across Illinois have discovered their Revolutionary heritage.
What story is waiting in your family tree?

What You Get as an SAR Member

□

Discover Your Heritage

Access SAR's Patriot Research System—the most comprehensive database of Revolutionary War records. Our genealogists help you trace your lineage.

Value: Research support worth hundreds of dollars

□

Join a Brotherhood

Connect with fellow descendants who share your passion for American history. Monthly chapter meetings, state conferences, and national events.

Value: Lifelong friendships and networking

□️

Make History Come Alive

Participate in Color Guard, grave dedications, school presentations, and America 250 celebrations. Create memories your family will treasure.

Value: Meaningful contribution to your community

□ Special America 250 Offer: Join before July 4, 2026 and receive a commemorative America 250 certificate recognizing your family's Revolutionary heritage.

Three Simple Steps to Join

Think you might have a Revolutionary War ancestor? Most American families with colonial roots do. Here's how to find out:

Step 1: Find Your Chapter

With 17 chapters across Illinois, there's likely one near you. Each chapter has genealogy experts ready to help.

Enter a 5-digit zip code from anywhere in the United States.

That zip code appears to be outside Illinois.
To find the SAR society in your state, please visit the National Society Sons of the American Revolution.
We don’t have a chapter assignment for that zip code yet.
Please contact us at [email protected] and we’ll help you find your local chapter.
Step 2: Explore Your Family Tree

Our volunteer genealogists will help you research your lineage—even if you don't know where to start. Many members discover patriots they never knew existed.

Step 3: Submit Your Application

Once your patriot ancestor is documented, complete your application. Processing typically takes 60-90 days.

Not sure if you qualify? Contact us at [email protected] — we'll help you find out. Many members are surprised to discover multiple patriot ancestors!

Everyone Can Participate in America 250

You don't need to be an SAR member to join our celebrations! Here's how different groups can get involved:

□

Students & Youth

  • Knight Essay Contest (grades 9-12)
  • Rumbaugh Oration (grades 9-12)
  • Poster Contest (grades 2-5)
  • Brochure Contest (grades 6-8)

Prizes include scholarships up to $10,000!

Student Programs
□

Educators

  • Request classroom speakers
  • Access free teaching materials
  • Earn Teacher Recognition Awards
  • Apply for the Lawrence Award ($5,000)

Bring Revolutionary history to life!

Educator Resources
□

Community Members

  • Attend July 8th Declaration reading
  • Join Liberty Tree ceremonies
  • Visit patriot grave dedications
  • Watch Color Guard at local events

All events free and open to public!

Event Calendar

Our Partners & National Network

Illinois SAR works alongside respected patriotic and educational organizations:

Patriotic Partners

National SAR

Illinois SAR is one of 54 state societies within the National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution, founded in 1889.

As a member, you gain access to:

  • National genealogical databases
  • Annual Congress & conferences
  • National competitions & awards

Visit National SAR →

America's 250th Birthday is Coming. Will You Be Part of It?

On July 4, 2026, our nation celebrates 250 years of independence. This is a once-in-a-lifetime moment to honor the patriots who made it possible—including your own ancestors.

Ready to Join?

Find a chapter near you and connect with fellow patriots who share your passion for American history.

Find Your Chapter

Want to Learn More?

Have questions? We're here to help.

[email protected]

About Illinois SAR

"Those who expect to reap the blessings of freedom must undergo the fatigue of supporting it."

— Thomas Paine, 1777