The David Lindsay Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) was organized in Montevallo in 1927 and continues to thrive with 42 chapter members.

Each DAR member is a proven lineal descendent of a patriot of the American Revolution.

The DAR defines “patriot” as one who provided service or direct assistance in achieving America’s independence.

In the last two years, 17 daughters have joined the chapter. Registrar and genealogist, Judith Arthur (Maylene) helps each prospective member with her papers that prove her lineage to her patriot.

Peggy Wood (Columbiana), Terry Mattson (Calera), and Allison Barry (Indian Springs) recently joined, and Christine Simmer (Montevallo) became a junior member.

The chapter is proud to have a DAR Memorial and Historical Marker on the memorial rock of its namesake, David Lindsay, at the American Village Monument Garden.

Lindsay was a Revolutionary War soldier and Shelby County pioneer.

Lindsay and wife, Mary, are buried in the Lindsay Historical Site along Highway 17 near Maylene.

The chapter has had two Lindsay descendants as members: Roberta Fulton Meadows, (deceased), and current member Sarah Brasher Kendrick (Shelby).

Each year the chapter, led by Sheila Coupland, sponsors the DAR Good Citizen Essay Contest open to high school seniors.

The winner receives a DAR medal and monetary award.

The 2009 Good Citizen Essay winner was Miss Amber Bell of Thompson High School.

The chapter is also very involved in promoting Constitution Week.

Last year, proclamations from every Shelby County city and town declared Sept. 17-25 as Constitution Week.

Bells were rung across the county on Sept. 17 at 3 p.m., a nationwide tradition to announce the beginning of Constitution Week.

Veterans hold a special place in the chapter’s heart.

Members donate books to be mailed to active servicemen and also given to the Veteran’s Home.

Personal packets of hygiene supplies, socks and books are made and taken to the Veteran’s Home by Lucy Carpenter, Veteran’s Chair.

Regent Rita Reid recently welcomed Sandra Fox, Central District Director of the Alabama Society Daughters of the American Revolution, which includes 38 chapters including David Lindsay.

Fox congratulated the chapter on its recent growth and outstanding service work.

The chapter meets at 1:30 p.m. the first Wednesday of the month, except in summer, at the Harrison Regional Library in Columbiana.

If you are interest in joining, please contact Arthur at jkennedya@bellsouth.net.

Phoebe Robinson can be reached by e–mail at phoeberobinson@bellsouth.net.