In the aftermath of the American Centennial, national interest in the country’s founding and its Revolutionary War heroes surged. Among the most significant responses to this patriotic revival was the formation of The Sons of the American Revolution (SAR)—a lineage society founded to honor the memory of the men and women who secured American independence.

Origins and Founding

The Sons of the American Revolution was officially established on April 30, 1889, the 100th anniversary of George Washington’s first inauguration as President. Its formation was led by William Osborn McDowell, a New Jersey banker and civic leader who had previously been involved in the founding of the Sons of the Revolution, a similar society established in New York in 1876.

McDowell split from the Sons of the Revolution due to disagreements over organizational control and inclusivity. He believed that membership should be more broadly available to male descendants of Revolutionary patriots, not just limited to descendants of original members of the New York society.

SAR was incorporated on January 17, 1890 and later chartered by the United States Congress on June 9, 1906.  Prior to this date a number of state societies were formed in the 1880’s.  The first Congress of the National Society was held in Louisville, Kentucky on April 30, 1890.

Thus, SAR was formed as a national organization with the goal of fostering a deeper understanding of the founding of the United States and recognizing the sacrifices of the Revolutionary generation.

Mission and Membership

SAR’s core mission is threefold:

1. To perpetuate the memory of the men and women who achieved American independence.
2. To promote fellowship among their descendants.
3. To inspire the community with a reverence for the principles of government founded by our forefathers.

Membership is open to men who can provide documented proof of lineal descent from a patriot of the American Revolution. This patriot may have served in the military, provided material support to the revolutionary cause, or contributed in a civil capacity. Here are the four steps to join:

• Determine eligibility by ensuring that you can satisfy the SAR membership requirements and that you are a direct descendant of a Revolutionary War Patriot.
• Find a local contact – If you meet eligibility requirements, the next step is to find a SAR sponsor in close proximity to you (often the local SAR Chapter Registrar). This person will help guide you through the SAR membership application process and can help review information assembled to enter into SAR membership application forms.
• Collect your “proofs” – documenting a genealogical line to a patriot ancestor can often be accomplished with only modest effort, provided you know what to look for and where to find it.
• Start your application – Once properly completed, submit your SAR membership application (with all related documentation) to your sponsoring SAR chapter for approval. The Chapter will then forward your application to the respective SAR State Society and then on to National SAR Headquarters for final review and approval. 

National Structure and Growth

SAR is organized with a national society and state societies under it, each subdivided into local chapters. Following its founding in 1889, the society grew quickly, gaining recognition from the U.S. Congress, which chartered SAR in 1906 under Title 36 of the United States Code—a rare honor granted to only a few patriotic organizations.

The SAR headquarters is located in Louisville, Kentucky, home to the National Society’s Patriot Research System, Education Center, and American Revolution Museum.

Historical Contributions and Public Engagement

SAR’s activities have always revolved around education, patriotism, and historic preservation. Over the years, the organization has:

• Preserved and marked historic Revolutionary War sites and battlefields.
• Published and maintained genealogical and historical records.
• Sponsored youth contests in oratory, essay writing, and Eagle Scout achievements.
• Engaged in public education through classroom materials, lectures, and exhibitions.
• Participated in naturalization ceremonies and honored veterans with recognition programs.

SAR members have included Presidents Theodore Roosevelt, Calvin Coolidge, and Harry S. Truman, among many other civic and military leaders.

Collaboration and Legacy

SAR frequently collaborates with sister societies such as the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) and Children of the American Revolution (CAR), sharing a commitment to heritage and education. The SAR continues to evolve, making strides in digital genealogy and expanding outreach to younger generations through scholarship programs and interactive historical experiences.

Conclusion

The Sons of the American Revolution stands as a vital link between the past and present—reminding Americans of the sacrifices made in the founding of the nation and the enduring values of liberty, service, and historical remembrance. Today, the SAR remains a powerful voice for patriotism and the preservation of American history.

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Sources

1. Sons of the American Revolution
2. U.S. Congress – Charter of the National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution