PAOLI, PA — The Great Valley Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) recently hosted a commemorative luncheon honoring two significant milestones in its history. Held at The Farmhouse at People’s Light in Malvern, the event marked the 60th anniversary of the chapter’s founding and the 130th anniversary of its historical connections to the Merion Chapter.
Titled “A Celebration of Four Chapter Histories,” the luncheon featured historical artifacts, including the original Merion Chapter banner insignia and the Great Valley Chapter’s charter. Regent Karen Christen reflected on the chapter’s origins and growth, quoting the vision of Organizing Regent Patricia Jean Snyder Held, who foresaw a chapter that would grow “STRONG,” “LUSTY,” and “HEALTHY.” Christen added, “Mrs. Held would be proud of where we’ve come and the impact we’ve made on our community.”
The Great Valley Chapter, founded in Paoli on April 17, 1965, was created by former members of the Lansdowne Chapter who sought a local presence in Chester County. It has since incorporated the legacies of three other DAR chapters, including the historic Merion Chapter, established in 1895. Over its history, the Great Valley Chapter has welcomed more than 600 members and currently boasts 152 active participants.
The celebration also recognized charter member Alva Hayes and acknowledged the efforts of the luncheon committee, led by Kristi Wolf, along with contributors to a newly published historical booklet. Regent Christen emphasized the chapter’s enduring commitment to education, historic preservation, and patriotism, noting its many contributions to community service and student programs.
The Daughters of the American Revolution, a national organization with over 185,000 members, has been fostering community service and historic preservation since 1890. The Great Valley Chapter looks forward to continuing this legacy, building connections to the past while supporting future generations.
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