Mission Statement:
The Sons of the American Revolution honors our Revolutionary War patriot ancestors by promoting patriotism, serving our communities and educating and inspiring future generations about the founding principles of our Country.
Honoring Patriot Ancestors: SAR pays tribute to the individuals who played vital roles in the American Revolution by recognizing and honoring their sacrifices and contributions. This includes acknowledging the commitment of those who pledged their lives, fortunes, and sacred honor to secure the nation's independence from Great Britain.
Promoting Patriotism: SAR actively promotes patriotism among its members and within the broader community. This involves fostering a deep sense of pride in being American citizens and embracing the unifying force of the national motto "e pluribus unum" (out of many, one).
Serving Communities: SAR is committed to serving its communities. This service extends beyond honoring the past and involves actively engaging in civic and community activities that reflect the ideals and values of the American Revolution.
Educating and Inspiring Future Generations: A central aspect of SAR's mission is the education and inspiration of future generations. They aim to instill an understanding of the founding principles of the United States, ensuring that the stories of patriotism and courage from the American Revolution continue to inspire and guide successive generations.
Maintaining and Extending American Freedom: SAR is dedicated to preserving and extending the institutions of American freedom. This includes upholding and respecting national symbols, such as the flag, and advocating for the unifying principles that bind Americans together.
SAR's mission is deeply rooted in the historical context of the organization's founding in 1876, during the centennial celebrations of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The founders of SAR, known as the Sons of Revolutionary Sires, sought to create a fraternal and civic society to perpetuate the inspiring stories of their patriot ancestors. They believed that these stories of courage and sacrifice would continue to inspire generations in their struggle to defend and extend the freedoms of the United States.
Our Pursuits:
Out of the Sons of Revolutionary Sires grew the National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution, which was organized on April 30, 1889, the one hundredth anniversary of the inauguration of George Washington as our nation’s first president. We have used the acronym SAR to identify ourselves for over one hundred years.
The SAR was conceived as a fraternal and civic society composed of lineal descendants of the patriots who wintered at Valley Forge, signed the Declaration of Independence, fought in the battles of the American Revolution, served in the Continental Congress, 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. The charter was signed by President Theodore Roosevelt, who was also a member of the Empire State Society, SAR. The charter authorizes the granting of charters to societies of the various states and territories and authorizes the state-level societies to charter chapters within their borders. United States Code TITLE 36 USC then established a federal charter for the National Society, SAR.
Application Services:
Tracing your history back to a Revolutionary War Patriot can be challenging! Each local chapter of the MISSAR offers assistance with your application process.
Browse our list of Chapters to contact a representative who will guide you through the process.
Community Service:
The SAR is actively involved in a variety of important community service programs, such as providing transportation to disabled veterans and supporting the efforts of public safety officials. Contact a representative at one of our Chapters to learn how you can help.
Youth Programs:
American patriotism and history is promoted by the SAR through a variety of youth-oriented scholarship and awards programs, including oration and essay contests, sponsorship of community service organizations, and outreach activities. Browse our Youth Programs page for more information.
Community Activities:
The MISSAR's events include service and patriotism recognition banquets, military service commemorations, participation in local history fairs, and American history seminars. Check our calendar and join us!