George Washington Chapter - DAR
Galveston, Galveston County, Texas
Marker Inscription
On June 17, 1895, at the home of Mrs. George Seeligson, located at this site, the George Washington Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution was formed. The name was selected because charter members included Mrs. Sydney Fontaine and her daughter Shirley, descendants of George Washington. This was the first DAR chapter in Texas, predating the state organization by five years. Since its founding, the group has pursued its goal of historic preservation, education of youth, and promotion of good citizenship.
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
In 1895, in the parlor of Mrs. George Seeligson's Galveston home, a group of women founded the George Washington Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution — the very first DAR chapter in Texas, five years ahead of the state organization. They took Washington's name because charter members Mrs. Sydney Fontaine and her daughter Shirley counted the first president among their ancestors. From the start the chapter devoted itself to historic preservation, youth education, and civic patriotism.
Why it matters
The founding of Texas's first DAR chapter reflects how women organized themselves at the turn of the century to shape public memory and civic life long before they could vote.
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Related people
- · Mrs. George Seeligson
- · Mrs. Sydney Fontaine
Themes & tags
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