Short History of the SAR and SAR Foundation

A Short History of the Sons of the American Revolution

The National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution was organized on April 30, 1889, the 100th anniversary of the inauguration of George Washington as our nation’s first President.  We have used the acronym “SAR” to identify ourselves for over 135 years.  The “SAR” was conceived as a fraternal and civic society composed of lineal descendants of the men who fought in the battles of the American Revolution or otherwise supported the cause of American Independence.  The National Society was chartered by an Act of the United States Congress on June 9, 1906. That charter was signed by President Theodore Roosevelt, who was a member of the SAR.

The “SAR” is the largest male lineage society in the United States and currently has approximately 38,000 members in over 575 chapters across the United States and internationally.  It is headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky.  Any male 18 years or older, regardless of race, religion, or ethnic background, who can prove lineal descent from a patriot of the American Revolution is eligible for membership. 

We are a non-profit, non-political organization dedicated to promoting patriotism, preserving American history, and promoting education to our future generations.

Our “Center” consists of our Headquarters, the SAR Genealogical Research Library, and the SAR Education Center and Museum.

 

A Short History of The SAR Foundation, Incorporated

The SAR Foundation was incorporated in 2002 to secure funding for the various projects undertaken by the SAR to improve the understanding of the American Revolution and support the mission and objectives of the National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution.  Our major current project is a $15 million capital campaign to bring the visionary SAR Education Center and Museum to life at the National SAR Headquarters located in Louisville, Kentucky.

The Board of the Foundation consists of nine members, with the President General, Secretary General, and Treasurer General of the SAR serving, respectively, as the Foundation’s Chairman, Secretary, and Treasurer.  The President and Vice President of the Foundation are elected from among the remaining six members.  The Board meets regularly, during our semi-annual Leadership/Trustee meetings and our Annual Congress, and at other times as needed.

 

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