The basic tenets of the National Society, Sons of the American Revolution are the same today as those adopted when first organized on April 30, 1889 – this was no coincidence as it was the 100^th anniversary of the inauguration of George Washington as our President.  The tenets of the society are to perpetuate the people and events of that revolution, to maintain the institutions of American freedom, and to promote fellowship among the descendants of Revolutionary War veterans.

The Society is proud of its achievements in the past 118 years.  It has erected or promoted the construction of hundreds of monuments and tablets commemorating the people and events of the American Revolution.  It continues to ceremoniously mark the graves of those who fought for our independence.  The Society conducts programs of patriotic and educational outreach to increase public awareness of our heritage, and genealogy.  In essence, we promote Americanism.

The National Society uses its awards program to recognize deeds of public service.  Annual youth programs include oration, Eagle Scout, outstanding Junior ROTC, essay, and elementary school poster contests.

The Society maintains a central office in Louisville, Kentucky.  A headquarters staff provides support to 51 state and 6 international societies.  Current membership exceeds 27,000.  The Society has gradually changed from an elite lineage institution to a service based organization.

The North Carolina Society was organized at Washington, North Carolina on February 22, 1911.  The State Society is currently comprised of 18 chapters.  Membership is approaching 750 compatriots.  A board of managers consisting of elected officers and all chapter presidents provide the governance.  The society conducts an annual convention, and state elected officers serve a two-year term.

Presently the Sons of the American Revolution are in the throes of a 6 million dollar capital building campaign to establish the Center for Advancing America’s Heritage.  Once complete the Center will be the Society’s new library, museum, and headquarters.  From the Center outreach programs will be launched to reeducate teachers and students on the value of national unity under one American identity.  The center is expected to be complete within the next 5 years. 

It should be remembered that the strength and power of this nation of states rests not so much in its material resources as in the spirit of its people. It was this spirit that inspired the actions of our ancestors. Their sacrifices must be perpetuated if future generations are to appreciate the country.

JH/1-20-07