PITTSBURGH, PA — Members of the Jeptha Abbott Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) left their mark on the 128th Pennsylvania State DAR Conference, held April 24-26 in Pittsburgh. Over three impactful days, the chapter received several prestigious recognitions while participating in initiatives aimed at honoring history, supporting veterans, and advancing education.
Chapter Regent Teri Fischer was named state runner-up for the Outstanding Chapter Regent award, acknowledging her leadership. Additionally, Beckie O’Neill received the Pennsylvania State DAR Service for Veterans Award for her exceptional support to the veteran community. Adding to the accolades, the Jeptha Abbott Chapter proudly won the coveted Junior Bowl, awarded for success in mentoring members under 35, reinforcing DAR’s commitment to nurturing its next generation of leaders.
One of the conference’s highlights was a $25,000 donation presented to the Tunnels to Towers Foundation. This national organization aids Gold Star families and catastrophically injured veterans by providing mortgage-free homes. Mark Phillips, retired first responder and T2T Events Manager, emphasized the profound impact of the donation, describing it as offering “dignity and stability to those who served.” The funds represented three years of collective fundraising across Pennsylvania chapters under the leadership of State Regent Marguerite Fritsch.
DAR’s “Rucksacks to Backpacks” initiative was also in the spotlight, culminating with a parade in honor of military families. Chapters across the state contributed over 1,700 backpacks for children of deployed military personnel, providing practical support and emotional stability during challenging times. Jenna Price from USO Central PA praised DAR’s efforts, which she said had brought “meaningful support to the lives of military children.”
The conference also underscored DAR’s role in historical preservation, with the dedication of an America 250 Marker at Pittsburgh’s Fort Pitt Block House, signifying its rich colonial history. Regent Fritsch highlighted another upcoming addition, announcing a marker dedication at Old Swedes Cemetery in Chester this May. This historic site houses the graves of 11 Revolutionary War veterans, cementing its importance as preparations for America’s 250th anniversary continue.
Educational advocacy was celebrated too, including the centenary of the Kate Duncan Smith DAR School, which supports over 1,300 rural students in Alabama. The event also spotlighted other DAR-supported institutions, which receive over $1 million annually in contributions focused on education.
Service remains the heartbeat of DAR’s mission. Members of the Pennsylvania State Society DAR collectively logged over 217,000 service hours in 2024, surpassing their goal by over 10,000 hours. Nationally, DAR members recorded more than 7 million hours, reflecting their unwavering commitment to supporting communities, honoring military service, and preserving American history.
With numerous recognitions and significant charitable contributions, the Jeptha Abbott Chapter embodies DAR’s motto of “God, Home, and Country,” ensuring a lasting impact on their community and the nation. Looking ahead, the chapter remains poised to continue advancing its mission of service, education, and historical preservation.
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