In the wake of the United States Centennial in 1876, a renewed interest in American heritage inspired the founding of several patriotic societies. Among the first and most historically significant of these was the Sons of the Revolution (SR)—a lineage-based organization committed to preserving the memory of those who fought for and achieved American independence.

Founding and Early Vision

The Sons of the Revolution was founded on February 22, 1876—the 144th anniversary of George Washington’s birth—by John Austin Stevens in New York City. Stevens, a historian and patriot, envisioned an organization that would commemorate the achievements of the Revolutionary generation and instill pride in their descendants.

Initially organized under the auspices of the New York Historical Society, the Sons of the Revolution quickly established itself as a separate and permanent society. The organization held its first general meeting on December 4, 1883, and incorporated under the laws of New York State in 1884.

Key Purpose

From its inception, the Sons of the Revolution had a clear and enduring mission:

• To perpetuate the memory of the men who, by their services or sacrifices during the War of the American Revolution, achieved the independence of the American people.
• To promote and assist in the proper celebration of patriotic anniversaries, particularly Independence Day.
• To maintain and preserve historical documents, artifacts, and places related to the American Revolution.
• To encourage research and publication on Revolutionary War history.

Membership and Eligibility

Membership in the Sons of the Revolution is open to male descendants of those who served in the military, naval, or civil service in support of American independence between 1775 and 1783. Unlike the later-formed Sons of the American Revolution (SAR), the Sons of the Revolution was originally designed to be more exclusive in terms of membership, favoring direct descendants and requiring applicants to be invited or endorsed.

This difference in eligibility and organizational control later led to a philosophical split between SR and SAR, with the latter founded in 1889 as a more inclusive national organization. Despite this, the Sons of the Revolution has retained its distinct identity and historic traditions.

Structure and Symbols

The Sons of the Revolution is organized as a federation of state societies, each operating independently under a general confederation. The General Society of the Sons of the Revolution (GSSR) serves as the umbrella organization, coordinating national events and maintaining the society’s founding vision.

The society’s insignia includes a badge with the cross of St. George and a medallion bearing the image of George Washington, symbolizing both the colonial heritage and Revolutionary leadership.

One of the most iconic homes of the society is Fraunces Tavern in New York City—one of the oldest surviving buildings in Manhattan and the site of George Washington’s farewell to his officers in 1783. The Sons of the Revolution in the State of New York purchased and restored the building in 1904, turning it into a museum and their headquarters. It remains a key historic and educational site to this day.

Contributions to Historic Preservation and Education

Over the past century and a half, the Sons of the Revolution has:

• Preserved key Revolutionary-era sites and structures.
• Supported historical research and published scholarly work on Revolutionary War topics.
• Organized public celebrations of Revolutionary anniversaries, such as Evacuation Day (November 25) and Washington’s Birthday.
• Held parades, reenactments, lectures, and award ceremonies that educate the public on America’s founding.

Enduring Legacy

Although SAR later grew larger and more nationally prominent, the Sons of the Revolution retains a distinguished place in American heritage organizations, particularly for its historic roots and deep ties to Revolutionary-era sites. Today, the society continues to engage descendants of patriots in honoring their lineage and promoting the ideals of liberty, independence, and civic pride.

Conclusion

The Sons of the Revolution is more than a lineage society—it is a living monument to the courage, sacrifice, and vision of the founding generation. From the restoration of Fraunces Tavern to its educational initiatives, SR stands as a guardian of the American memory, reminding future generations of the price and value of freedom.

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Sources

1. General Society, Sons of the Revolution – Official Website
2. Sons of the Revolution in the State of New York – Fraunces Tavern Museum
3. New York Historical Society – The Founding of SR