Is DOR 1776 just a replacement for DAR?

Did you know there are more than 200 lineage societies in the United States? Many share similar historical interests while maintaining their own unique identities. For example, men descended from Revolutionary War Patriots may belong to both the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) and the Sons of the Revolution (SR). Many belong to both. The DAR and DOR 1776 are two distinct societies, each with its own proud history and traditions. The two organizations coexisted for 91 years, beginning with DOR’s founding in 1891. DOR 1776 has a unique organizational structure rooted in federalism: independent, self-governing State Societies and local chapters united under the General Society. This gives state leadership and members a direct role in guiding their own society’s affairs. Today, DOR 1776 renews and continues this legacy, welcoming biological women who can prove lineal descent from a Patriot of the American Revolution. DOR 1776 isn’t a replacement for DAR. It’s a separate lineage society with its own history, traditions, and mission.

Where is your chapter located?

VADOR 1776 is a State Society, not a local chapter. We represent women throughout Virginia and women who join from other states without societies. Now that we are officially chartered, the door is open to establishing local chapters across the Commonwealth. Interested in starting a chapter in your area? First...become a member of VADOR 1776. Gather four other interested women (preferably in your local community), and work together to establish your own Virginia chapter! We will help you!

Do I need to live in Virginia to join the Virginia Society?

You do not have to live in Virginia to join VADOR 1776! Our dream is to see DOR 1776 state societies chartered in all 50 states! While we’re excited about that possibility, building new state societies takes time and involves several steps. The good news? You don’t have to wait! You can join VADOR 1776 now and transfer to your own state society at no cost once one is chartered in your state. Even better, why not help make it happen? If you’re interested in starting a society in your state, we’d love to help you get the ball rolling!

Visit the General Society website at dr1776.org and complete the Contact Us form to learn more about getting a new state society started.

This isn't the DAR...but can I use my DAR application for my VADOR 1776 application?

 At this time, we still accept DAR-verified applications as supporting documentation. However, you must transcribe each generation of your lineage from your verified DAR application onto the VADOR 1776 application. Please include your DAR National Number on the reference line and attach a complete copy of your DAR application as supporting documentation. While a verified DAR application is helpful, we strongly encourage you to include any additional supporting documents since your DAR app was approved.  These records can help ensure your genealogy is as accurate and complete as possible.

Please note: Once an application is approved, VADOR 1776 and The General Society retains the application itself but destroys all supporting source documents. This differs from DAR’s process, so please be sure to keep your own copies of any documents you submit. 

Of course, if you have any questions, please reach out to our registrar at stateregistrar@vador1776.org.