Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is DAR?

A:  Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) is a lineage society that is a non-profit, 501 (c) (3) charitable organization dedicated to historic preservation, education and patriotism. 

Q: Who can be a member of DAR?

A:  Any woman 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. DAR defines a "patriot" as one who provided service or direct assistance in achieving America's independence.  

Q: What is the difference between NSDAR and DAR?

A:  These acronyms both refer to the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, and are used interchangeably. The acronym is pronounced by saying each letter "D-A-R" rather than one word "Dar."

Q: Why was famous black contralto, Marian Anderson, not permitted to sing at Constitution Hall in 1939?

A:  The incident in 1939 was one of the first milestones in the struggle for Civil Rights in America. Washington, D.C., was a segregated city at that time and Constitution Hall limited performances to white artists. As the country began to tear down the barriers of race and discrimination, DAR followed suit and changed its policy for the Hall. Miss Anderson sang at Constitution Hall six times after 1939 and launched her farewell tour from our stage.

Q: Does DAR accept members who are minorities?

A:  Yes. DAR has members of all races and ethnic backgrounds. 

Q: Is membership limited to certain religious affiliation?

A:  No. DAR is proud to have members from many different religions, including Catholic, Mormon, Jewish, Buddhist, and Islamic among others. 

Q: Why does DAR have a lineal requirement for membership?

A:  The DAR was founded in 1890 by four women whose common bond was the fact that each had fathers or grandfathers who were patriots of the American Revolution. The founders of the Daughters of the American Revolution sought to create an organization that would "perpetuate the memory and spirit of the women and men who achieved American independence."

Q: Is DAR a political organization and does it lobby Congress?

A:  No, the DAR is not a political organization, nor does it lobby. DAR is a patriotic society composed of members who subscribe to different political philosophies.

Q: Do I have to be a member to qualify for DAR Scholarships?

A:  No, the DAR provides many different types of scholarships which are open to all. See the Scholarships page of the National Society section for details.