Please follow the NSCDA on your favorite social media.
Dames Discovery is published in spring and fall for the members of The National Society of The Colonial Dames of America.
Submission
Dames Discovery accepts submissions from Corporate Societies.NSCDA assumes no responsibility for statements made or opinions expressed by contributing writers and artists. While every care is taken to ensure information is correct at time of printing, it is subject to change and NSDCA takes no responsibility for omissions or errors. NSCDA reserves the right to edit and place all content.
DISCOVER
X
X Meet Our Dames Contributors
Meg Beasley
Meg has been a Tennessee Dame since 1998. She has an eighteenth-century Maryland ancestor whose family name is “Dorsey.” Dorsey is the namsesake of a creek passing through what was his father’s land, now the site of the US Naval Academy. She loved teaching ancient history to high school freshmen for two decades before changing her focus to local and American historic preservation. Since then, she hasn’t looked back.
Genevieve Wheeler Brown
Genevieve Wheeler Brown is a decorative arts advisor, writer, and New York Dame with more than 30 years of experience in the art world, including a decade at Christie’s in New York and London. She describes her field as “history you can hold in your hands,” and has long been an active voice in the decorative arts community. Genevieve has also participated on the Antiques Roadshow as an appraiser with an eye out for overlooked treasure. In her role, she has held innumerable objects, from fake Stradivari violins to gold-mounted Fabergé eggs, considering their value but also the stories they can tell.
Molly Jordan Carey
Molly Jordan Carey became a Virginia Society Dame in 1999. She has held multiple leadership positions in the Virginia Society including President and Virginia Society Registrar. She is a former National executive officer and committee chair. Her current National leadership roles include: Co-Chair of the 250 by 250 Founding Females Initiative, and Co-Chair of Goal 1 Membership Working Group for Strategic Planning. Her Dames passion is the Founding Females Initiative and bringing recognition to the many female heroines who helped found our nation. When not Dame-ing she enjoys bringing beauty to her client’s homes through her interior design business and working to bring more natural beauty to Virginia through her garden club associations.
Sally Connelly
National Historian (2020 - 2024)
Sally says she has fun working on Dames Discovery and helping to tell the stories of the “amazing” women who, generations before they were allowed to step inside a university, worked on preserving American history. She has been an active member of the Dames after being “told” to do so as a bride. Next year, she celebrates her 50th anniversary, so you do the math. She has two passions, historical research and writing and she loves helping women become members. She believes the Dames need to focus on education and engagement of members and is happy playing a role in doing just that.
Evelyn Griswold
Evelyn Griswold is a second generation Dame, joining the Dames in 2002. She served as Treasurer and later Chair of the Alexandria, VA Dames. Evelyn is a wife and mother of three grown children and is the co-founder of a nearly three decades old direct response fundraising agency that has assisted a number of national charities and research organizations. In her spare time, she enjoys travel and exploring wineries in her state and other destinations.
Anna Duff
Anna Ferguson Duff, originally from Thomasville, GA, holds a degree in Furnishings and Interiors from the University of Georgia in Athens. With 40 years of distinguished membership in the NSCDA, she has been active in the Georgia, North Carolina, and New York Societies, including three years as President of the New York Society. From 2016 to 2020, she served as National President of the NSCDA, and was subsequently honored with election as Honorary National President in 2020. Before her presidency, she held leadership positions including Vice President for the NSCDA National Headquarters at Dumbarton House, Chair of the National Museum Properties Committee, and Vice Regent of the Board of Regents of Gunston Hall Plantation. She currently serves as an ex-officio member of the Dumbarton House Board and as a Trustee with the Friends of Sulgrave Manor. In addition to her leadership within several hereditary societies, she is an accomplished pianist and occasionally performs at private events. Anna and her husband, Steven, enjoy traveling, hosting gatherings, and golfing when time allows.
Caroline Hazard Goedhart
Caroline has been a Colonial Dame since 2000 through the Rhode Island Society. In 2008, she was nominated President of the Washington Society and served in that position for four years. At the National level, she was the National Vice-President Residing in Region I for six years. She also chaired and participated in several national committees: Chair of the New Business Committee, Chair of the Ad-hoc Nominating Process Review Committee, Chair of the 2020 Ad-hoc Membership Committee and Chair of Goal 7 of the 2024 Strategic Plan Committee. She is currently an Honorary President and Treasurer of the Friends of Sulgrave Manor and Chair of the NSCDA Membership Committee. What she enjoys most about the Dames is the fellowship that exists across the membership. The organization is a wonderful group of diverse intelligent women who each bring their own humor, points-of-view and approach to the organization. There is always something new to learn and to share!
Sarah Heatwole
Sarah Collier Heatwole joined the NSCDA in 2009 in Illinois where she served as Chicago Program Chair. After moving to California in 2011, she served as membership chair, and program co-chair for the LA/Pasadina/Santa Barbara town committee, and as NSCDA-CA president 2020-2022. She also was editor of The Quill, the California State Society newsletter. Sarah is currently serving as the California Lady of the Dumbarton House Board and as Collections Chair of the NSCDA Museum Alliance Committee.
Charbra Adams Jestin
As the NSCDA Senior Representative to the Sulgrave Manor Trust, Charbra Adams Jestin holds a seat on the Trust board. A member of the NSCDA since 1984, she served from 2014 to 2020 as the president of the NSCDA in the State of Connecticut, which owns and operates the Webb-DeaneStevens Museum in Wethersfield, CT, a complex of three 18th century museum houses. While president, she oversaw the construction of the 6,000 sq.ft. Holcombe Education Center at the museum. She brings to the Sulgrave Manor Trust a passion for history, particularly for Anglo-American history. She feels strongly that the mission of Sulgrave Manor Trust reinforces the British foundation in the creation of the democratic principles of the United States of America.
Lisa Baker Liles
Lisa Baker Liles joined the Indiana Society of the NSCDA in 1993 and has served both her Corporate Society and the National Society in many capacities. She has represented the Indiana Society on the Dumbarton House Board and has held the position of Indiana Registrar. She served as National Registrar for seven years. Her current National leadership roles include Co-Chair of the 250 by 250 Founding Females Initiative and Co-Chair of Goal 1 Membership Working Group for Strategic Planning. She has a passion for genealogy research and has completed numerous lineage papers for members in the Indiana Society as well as for others in Corporate Societies across the country. In her leisure time, Lisa enjoys gardening, playing Mah Jongg, and doing needlework. She remains dedicated to advancing the mission of the NSCDA through service, research, and fellowship.
Susan Ross Michaelis
Susan Ross Michaelis is an art historian and former museum professional with an interest in genealogy, writing, literature, music and gardening. Depending on the day, you might find her deep in a dusty archive, singing in the church choir or cursing at the squirrels eating up her garden. She descends from a long line of curious creatives and practical professionals that have called the Chicago area home for about 150 years.
Sarah McComas
Sarah enjoyed a career in theatre, spanning Off-Broadway, the San Francisco Opera, national tours, and regional theatre. Her second career as a fundraiser followed, at first in higher education, then at a Washington, DC think tank, and finally at the Washington National Cathedral. She is a member of the Washington, DC Dames, serving on the DC Society board. Nationally, she is the newly appointed Legacy Circle Chair. She is also a Courtesy Member of the Virginia Society’s Richmond Town and County Committee.
Marianna MacIntyre
Mission Outreach Committee Chair, Marianna has been a Dame for 30+ years, because her Mama strongly suggested she join. Her tenure has been focused on patriotic service and educating children about our Veterans. She considers it a privilege to continue this focus with the Veterans History Project and America’s VetDogs! She finds pleasure volunteering with these and other committees, recording stories of Dames and offering scholarly lectures “Food for Thought.” The lectures are designed to increase knowledge of our 75 Great American Treasures historic properties. The committee also archives NSCDA events and celebrations for the Semiquincentennial, and is increasing participation in naturalization programs across the country. The Mission Outreach Committee just added “DiD!” ~ Done in a Day! This venue provides opportunities for every Dame to enjoy and complete a “Pop Up” project in under a day.
Elsie Smith
Elsie and her husband live in Vermont, where they retired about 15 years ago. They enjoy cows as neighbors and pastoral views out all our windows. They raised their family outside of NYC where they lived for 30 years. The Smiths have three children and two grandchildren. Elsie enjoys the outdoors, travel and she loves to cook, garden and sew. She has been an active Dame since moving to Vermont in both her local society and on the national level—and very much enjoys the sisterhood of these wonderful women.
Susan Walker
National Corresponding Secretary 2016-2022
Susan Woodward Walker, a Tennessee Dame and a courtesy Dame in Florida, North Carolina, and the District of Columbia, enjoys working with and visiting with Dames in each of these societies.
An Honorary President of the Tennessee Dames, a former National officer, and Roll of Honor recipient, she has been engaged with the Dames in many ways, including Messaging Chair of the NSCDA $10M campaign, and most recently, as a “founder” of Dames Socials along with Holly Hunt. Currently the Chair of the Dumbarton House Board Development Committee, she was charged with the responsibility of raising $2M for the NSCDA for Fiscal Year 2025.
Editor’s Notes
President’s Message
Jennie K. LeavellMary Heyward Mundy
“Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it.”
— William Arthur Ward
The Power of Gratitude
As I reflect on the past year, one word rises above all others: gratitude - my gratitude for your generosity, your steadfast service, and your belief in the power of women working together for a purpose greater than ourselves.
The NSCDA has always been defined by its mission of historic preservation, education, and patriotic service. But this year, we have also been defined by an extraordinary spirit of giving.
Together, we achieved something remarkable: more than $2 million raised in a single fiscal year. That figure represents far more than dollars—it reflects trust, commitment, and shared vision. It reflects your confidence in our collective work—to preserve the places and stories that shaped our nation, and to ensure they continue to inspire generations to come.
This spirit of generosity has been visible throughout the NSCDA, especially in Great American Treasures, which has expanded both in number of properties and in the national support it receives. Through this growing alliance, Dames and staff are telling America’s story —connecting history, place, and purpose while drawing new audiences to our mission.
Our Corporate Societies continue to serve as our boots on the ground, sharing our love of country within communities through grassroots mission work. These efforts remind us that our strength lies not only in our shared history, but in the living network of Dames who bring it to life every day.
At Dumbarton House, our national headquarters, gratitude takes the form of progress. Guided by the New Vision for Dumbarton House, we are embracing a thoughtful, phased approach to ensure this historic site remains both our home and a living reflection of who we are today. Dumbarton House is evolving into a society museum, visitor center, and national gathering space—a place that tells our story and welcomes others into it.
And just as important as the spaces we preserve are the connections we build with one another. Over the past year, we have seen members come together across states and generations at Dames Socials and at the National Conference. Relationships are the lifeblood of the NSCDA. When Dames connect, collaborate and care for one another, we create a society that is not only stronger but more joyful and enduring.
We have seen the extraordinary impact of our educational and patriotic programs. The Washington Workshops, the Veterans History Project, our own Oral Histories, America’s VetDogs, Done in a Day, the American Heritage Awards, AIMS, and so many others remind us that preservation is about investing in the future.
Internally, we are strengthening our foundation through the 2024–2028 Strategic Plan, focusing on four priorities: Membership, Mission Impact, Internal Excellence, and Communication. These guideposts are helping us tell our story more effectively, sustain our work more strategically and ensure that Dames feel connected.
Across the country, I see members leading with purpose—finding new ways to engage, to educate, to preserve and to serve. I am deeply grateful for each of you: for our volunteers and leaders who give countless hours; for our staff, who work tirelessly behind the scenes; and for every member who continues to say “yes.”
As we look toward the 250th anniversary of American independence, may we give thanks for all that we have inherited and all that we are building together. The story of the Dames is one of perseverance, purpose, connection and profound gratitude. Together, we are ensuring that the Great American story continues—told with pride, passion and hope.
“As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.”
— John F. Kennedy
Editor’s Notes
Editor’s Notes
Jennie K. Leavell Jennie Kinkead Leavell, Kentucky Society
This issue of Dames Discovery leads with a series of articles on giving and gratitude. From Mary Mundy’s grateful message to a piece on planned giving to one about the quiet power of volunteerism, it is clear that Dames are generous. The Martin House Farm (established in 1735) in Swansea, MA, was gifted to the Massachusetts Dames in 1930. It is an exceptional property with over 50 acres and a house that dates to the earliest days in New England. Today, Martin House Farm opens its doors to the public, thriving as an education and community facility. Like other house museums, programming plays a big role and there are 18th century enactments throughout the season. Photos recently taken on the grounds illustrate what it must have been like in 1735. On our cover, young Reagan Martin is kneeling and praying. Reagan is directly descended from John Martin, the farm’s founder. She belongs to either the seventh or eighth generation removed, depending on how you read her geneology. Her gentle face, clasped hands and pious posture fit perfectly well with the theme of giving and gratitude. Her older sister London is in the featured photos too.
properties, is published. Two other books by Dames are reviewed: Becoming American by Peggy DeStefano and Beyond Blue and White by Genevieve Wheeler Brown. Another highlight is a profile on Sara Yorke Stevenson from the early days of NSCDA. Mrs. Stevenson was a self-taught Egyptologist who, in 1894—well before women had the right to vote—received a doctorate from the University of Pennsylvania and later became the fifth and only female president of the Pennsylvania Museum School of Industrial Art.
Also in this issue we announce that 270 women have been qualified in the NSCDA Register of Ancestors. There is a nice piece about midwives in colonial America who really were at the forefront of medical care in those days. We are excited to announce that Great American Treasures, the coffee table book featuring Dames owned
This issue wraps with location-specific Dames Socials gatherings. It sure looks like a good time was had by all! I am interested in organizing a Dames Social in my city, Lexington, KY, the heart of the bluegrass. It will be in April 2026 and visitors will stay in a medieval castle that was dismantled in Europe and rebuilt, stone by stone, on beautiful rolling hills in Woodford County, KY. The Kentucky Castle (www. thekentuckycastle.com) is now a hotel just down the roadway from Keeneland Race Course (www.keeneland.com) as well as the Lexington airport. You will spend an afternoon in the clubhouse at the races and an optional second day would include a bourbon tour and/or a chance to meet American Pharoah, the 2015 triple crown winner. Please email me at jkl@qx.net if you are interested in coming. The Castle as well as Keeneland require advance paid reservations from groups.
Report from Headquarters
Editor’s Notes
Jennie K. LeavellExecutive Director, Gloria E. Kenyon
I was drawn to the NSCDA because of its mission for historic preservation and the ways in which it seeks to elevate women’s stories. The sampler survey is one area in particular that is close to my heart and excited me about the work. I also appreciate the camaraderie of the members and the ways they work together to achieve common goals. I noted in my interview that I’ve been on over 100 historic house tours and was excited that I added to that number when I had some free time in Charleston. I went to Salem College, which is the oldest educational institution for women in the United States— founded in 1772. It was there that I learned the value of women
joining together to accomplish goals and the importance of preserving our history and stories.
Just a few weeks into the job, I am excited to begin working on the things that will help continue the future of the organization. I look forward to working with our finance committee to ensure we have a balanced budget and clear cash flows. I am very excited to hire a Director of Advancement who will help solidify our financial footing and ensure we can move forward with the goals we have set for ourselves. I am honored to be your new Executive Director and look forward to all we will accomplish together.
A Planned Gift –The Gift of a Lifetime
By Sarah McComas Legacy Circle Chair Washington, DC Society
Dames’ dues are not a gift. They are what we pay annually to be members of a non-profit legacy society, The National Society of The Colonial Dames of America. A society with a respected history amongst the realm of legacy societies in the United States, the NSCDA has maintained a branded, recognizable profile that has carried the organization into two centuries. We want that legacy to continue. How does a legacy society sustain its image and efficacy from one generation to the next? Through various modes of philanthropic gifts beyond dues (annual, major, and planned gifts) with a donor’s planned gift being the ultimate gift.
Take a minute to think how much the NSCDA gives to us. What comes to mind immediately is the camaraderie we enjoy as members with shared histories and interests. We are also grateful for committees that plan and sponsor lectures, excursions and events. NSCDA also provides opportunities to belong to book clubs, participate in ongoing research, and attend projects imparting history and civics to the next generation. We are privileged to host citizenship ceremonies on historic properties we support and contribute to veterans’ organizations and initiatives. The benefits of all these activities extend not only to those to whom we give but also to us personally.
Many of us certainly give annual gifts and many give major gifts and planned gifts. If your giving falls into all three areas, thank you. If you have not given, and are considering a first gift or wish to expand your giving, it might be time to consider including the NSCDA in your estate plans.
The largest number of legacy gifts to most organizations come from loyal annual donors. Instead of making a major gift, which would likely be a stretch gift during a lifetime, a bequest is the ultimate major gift. An institution that receives a planned gift is counted by the benefactor as one of the family. The Dames are founded on legacy and this kind of gift is so important to the future of NSCDA.
The Legacy Circle, NSCDA’s planned giving society, consists of Dames from all over the world. Friends of the NSCDA and generations of families have included the Dames in their estate plans. Planned Gifts invest in the pursuits we hold dear, what has touched us and our forebears and has enriched our lives immeasurably. These elements actively promote interest in the early history of America, stimulate a spirit of true patriotism and, through preservation and education, uphold these endeavors to endure for generations to come.
Planned Gifts welcomed by the NSCDA include:
A Bequest through provisions in your will or trust.
Designation of NSCDA as a beneficiary of your IRA or qualified retirement plan, insurance policy, or bank account.
Bequest
When you develop your estate plan, please consider naming NSCDA in your will. Bequests have funded endowments, paid for major capital improvements, and contributed to operational costs. We welcome bequests of all sizes.
Codicil to Existing Will
If your current will does not need revision, your attorney can provide you with a codicil, a simple addition to your will that will make a provision for NSCDA while leaving the rest of your will intact.
Residual Bequest
A residual bequest allocates assets that remain in the estate after all other beneficiaries, as well as any tax and administrative costs, have been satisfied.
Contingent Bequest
A contingent bequest allocates assets only when those named as primary beneficiaries predecease the testator or if the named beneficiaries waive or disclaim the bequest provision.
We recommend consulting your philanthropic advisor/attorney to determine which planned gift(s) will fulfill your and your family’s legacy.
Our legal name is: The National Society of The Colonial Dames of America (NSCDA)
Our address is: NSCDA, Dumbarton House Attn: Development 2715 Q Street, NW Washington, DC 20007-3071
Main Telephone: 202.337.2288
Contact: Edith Laurencin
Email: EdithLaurencin@nscda.org
The NSCDA is a nonprofit corporation and is a tax-exempt entity under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.
Our Federal Tax ID Number/EIN is 53-0224364.
Welcome to the Legacy Circle
Please consider joining the Legacy Circle, thereby providing your support for generations of Dames to come and please let us know, if you have not already, that you have included NSCDA in your plans. That is all we need to welcome you as a member of the Legacy Circle. The Legacy Circle allows us to recognize you and say thank you for including The National Society of The Colonial Dames of America in your plans.
Confidentiality
Should you wish to make your planned gift anonymously, NSCDA will uphold your wishes in strictest confidence.
Thank you for considering such a meaningful gift to The National Society of The Colonial Dames of America. If you have further questions, please contact Edith Laurencin at EdithLaurencin@ nscda.org. X
Editor’s Notes
Editor’s Notes
Martin House Farm
Jennie K. Leavell
Jennie K. Leavell
Thankful for Nearly a Century of Preservation and Community Enrichment
By Sue Butler Martin House Farm Chair and Katherine Bergholtz
National
Media & Publications Chair
Massachusetts Society
In 1930, Susan Martin Allien, a New York Dame, made a visionary gift by bequeathing Martin House Farm in Swansea, MA, to the NSCDA-MA. Born in 1862 in East Greenbush, NY, she was an 8th generation Martin and a descendant of John Howland, a signer of the Mayflower Compact and negotiator of treaties with the Wampanoags. She married industrialist Frederick Allien. Residing in Riverdale, the couple supported many local, national and global causes. It was Susan who continuously organized friends to volunteer for those causes. In essence, she embodied a legacy of service.
Susan Martin entrusted the Massachusetts Dames with the care of her family’s historic homestead, confident it would be preserved with integrity and purpose. For nearly 100 years, that trust has been honored. The NSCDA is recognized as the second-largest historic preservation organization in the United States, and Martin House Farm, a Great American Treasure, is a shining example of its mission in action.The farmhouse and barns, along with the surrounding fields and woodlands, remain preserved with remarkable authenticity. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the farm is noted for its architecture and rare landscape: fields that have been continuously farmed for over 300 years, with sweeping vistas largely unchanged since the early 18th Century.
The original house, built in 1728 and sitting on 51 acres, holds stories that connect us directly to the Martin family and the earliest days of the colony. Nestled in the woods, Margaret’s Rock is said to have played a vital role in the survival of Roger Williams who, after traveling 14 weeks through a harsh winter, was nursed back to health by a Pokanoket woman. Legend says she was Massasoit’s sister, Margaret. From there, Williams went on to found Providence, Rhode Island. Standing by Margaret’s Rock today, visitors can almost hear the footsteps of those early colonists nearly 350 years ago—an intimate reminder that Martin House Farm is not only a preserved property but also a living link to the people who shaped the history of Swansea and New England.
Susan Martin’s antique collection was bequeathed with the property. The belongings tell stories that bind Swansea’s Native and colonial past. One remarkable example is a chair that originally belonged to Hugh Cole, a neighbor of John Martin. According to local legend, Metacomet (King Philip), son of Massasoit, visited Hugh Cole to warn him of the coming conflict now known as King Philip’s War. Grateful for the friendship between their families, Metacomet sought to spare the Coles from harm. The Coles fled to the river, but as they turned back, they saw their home in flames. Martin House Farm was now a colonial battleground. Among the few possessions that survived the Cole fire was a sturdy chair, crafted from exceptionally hard local wood, likely by a Swansea furniture maker. That chair survived through the centuries, was eventually offered at auction, and was purchased by Susan Martin Allien, who left it to the NSCDA-MA along with her other belongings. The original chair resides at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, while a faithful replica remains at Martin House—a lasting reminder of survival, generosity and the deep native-colonial connections embedded in Swansea’s history.
Connections with the region’s earliest history endure: recently logs from the property were gifted to native artisans, including members of the Pokanoket Tribe, descendants of those who welcomed the Pilgrims and aided Roger Williams. These partnerships underscore the farm’s role as a bridge between past and present, honoring traditions that reach back centuries. Today, a local farmer cultivates the land, sharing much of the harvest with food pantries—an enduring reminder that this property continues to nourish the community—both literally and historically. Community groups and Swansea Public Schools contribute to the farm’s lively programming. Events range from open-hearth cooking and musket demonstrations to quilt exhibitions, cider-making and concerts. The property has welcomed members of the Martin family for reunions, reaffirming the deep personal ties to the land.
Beyond its endeavors in architectural and agricultural preservation, Martin House Farm thrives as a center of education and community connection. In partnership with Swansea schools, high school students serve as docents, giving tours to summer visitors and teaching local fifth graders about colonial life during field trips. In doing so, they are bringing history to life through calligraphy lessons, weaving demonstrations, and lively interpretations of daily life in 1735. The program enriches students’ understanding of local history but also fosters civic pride—many return years later as adults, remembering their time there.
Creative funding keeps the property going including cottage rentals, house tours and community events. The Town of Swansea Community Preservation Act provides funding and generous local support for essential restorations of the farmhouse and barns. As modern challenges arise, thoughtful solutions safeguard the property for generations to come.
Susan Martin Allien’s gift of Martin House Farm to the NSCDA-MA has kept on giving for nearly a century. Her foresight preserved not only buildings and fields but also stories, traditions, and opportunities for education that continue to enrich the Swansea community. Coupling all that with her being a tireless volunteer, Susan Martin was a perfect example of a true philanthropist. She was fortunate to be able to contribute to the society both financially and through her countless volunteer hours. Giving comes in many forms—it can be a treasure of history, a landscape, a collection of belongings, a legacy of learning or simply giving your time. In this season of Thanksgiving, her gifts stand as a timeless example of creative, enduring generosity, reminding us the most lasting gifts are those that keep enriching others.
For almost 100 years, the Massachusetts Dames have faithfully honored Susan Martin Allien’s wishes—a lasting testament to our Society’s dedication to preserving history and colonial education. Susan is smiling from above.X
The NSCDA’s Philanthropic Tradition A
Brief History
By Meg Beasley National Historian Tennessee Society.
As each of us knows, The National Society of The Colonial Dames of America is a federated organization1 composed of 43 corporate societies across the United States. What does that mean? It speaks to the very core, the beginning of what is “The NSCDA.” In 1891 a group of Philadelphia women who shared a passion for saving the architecture, designs, actions and ideals of the earlier Colonial era met together to act upon their concerns and interests. Patterns of “giving” and “sharing” were visible from their outset, as the Pennsylvania Dames encouraged friends in other former colonies to consider banding together in like fashion.
Though no vision of more than 13 such groups was contemplated at the time, within five years female descendants from colonial ancestors who lived in states beyond the original 13 raised their voices to participate. The category of Associate States blossomed, and by 1932 the NSCDA included the original 14, made up of former colonies and the District of Columbia, and 27 associate states. That same year a headquarters opened in Washington, DC for this national society. It was named Dumbarton House. This property, gifted from each of the corporate societies to be shared by all, had been Clarinda Pendleton Lamar’s dream. Clarinda was a president of the NSCDA for 17 years. Its identity has helped to bind the federation together for our most recent 93 years. Dumbarton House reminds us today that giving and sharing are vital to the identity and success of the NSCDA. 2
We often think of the two together: giving to a common cause is a way of sharing the goal with other donors. The dictionary says giving is the act of bestowing something as a gift, a present, voluntarily and without expecting compensation. Sharing also suggests unselfishness. To share means using or enjoying something jointly with others.
Early examples of Dames’ giving to their communities varied. They created inventories of letters, indexed wills, published books on American war songs and one titled The Old Silver in American Churches. They erected memorial markers related to local history, restored a landmark of the first colonists’ entries to Virginia, built a landmark in Massachusetts and raised $50,000 for two World War I hospital ships.
The rescue of properties to save and to restore began in 1896 with the New York Society and Van Cortlandt house. Today more properties are managed by the NSCDA than any US entity except the National Park Service. In many cases these
buildings are used as headquarters for their corporate societies and shared with others through educational programs and exhibits with school and community groups.
It was, however, for the 25th Biennial that giving by the Dames for special anniversaries of the NSCDA began. Dames created the Roll of Honor for their Golden Jubilee celebration of 1941.
“As one sends a birthday gift to a well beloved friend on the occasion of an anniversary, it was decided that members be given the opportunity of doing the same thing for the National Society through their own State Societies. The result[ing] … Golden Jubilee Fund … sum of $23,453.72 has been given by the members in the forty-one State Societies….”3
Besides each corporate society’s gift, individual Dames could contribute. And the gift could honor members for their work in their own state societies.
“In the original plan for the celebration, birthday gifts could be made in memory of National Officers, Chairmen of National Committees and of Founders and Presidents of State Societies. These names form a list on a roll of honor to be kept at Dumbarton and to which names could always be added. With the approval of the National Board these birthday gifts or contributions to the Golden Jubilee Fund may be made also in honor of Officers and Members of the State Societies, who have been outstanding in what they have accomplished.” 3
This beginning honored Dames from 1891 to 1941 and it continues today as the Roll of Honor that allows each state society to acknowledge the exceptional efforts of their members by naming them to this roll. As a member shares with her society, she gives – or as a member gives to her society, she creates the ability for her society to share. Is it one, or the other, or maybe sometimes both?
Not to be outdone by their predecessors, Dames in anticipation of the 1966 Diamond Jubilee donated $274,254 – more than 10 times the sum of gifts from 1941’s campaign. Close to 1,100 Dames also showed a devotion to the NSCDA, the National Headquarters and its uses by attending the Diamond Jubilee banquet held there. Where do you imagine they all sat in these days before the Belle Vue Room? It was at this Biennial that recognition was given to Captain and Mrs. Peter Belin for their gift of land adjoining Dumbarton House, the largest single gift ever given the society up to that time.4
In 1986, in anticipation of the 1991-92 Centennial of the NSCDA’s founding, the trend of multiplying by 10 the previous celebratory gift continued: the goal was to be $3 million. The tangible results of donations include the addition of Belle Vue Room at the east end of Dumbarton House with a terrace above it overlooking a stone paved courtyard and the East Garden beyond—all beautiful and very useful additions to Headquarters. Dames raised the money, and the giving improved later and present sharing. Together the corporate societies involved in each of these 20th century fundraising drives deserve praise and credit for their efforts for the good of all Dames. From those efforts programs emerged to inspire school children, visitors and the neighbors in Georgetown and bring Dumbarton House ALIVE to its locale as well as to its membership.
Footnotes
1. A federated organization is a network of independent, affiliated units or entities that cooperate under a common mission, brand, or central governing body, while each unit maintains a degree of autonomy in its operations. These organizations balance central authority with local control, allowing for unified goals and resource sharing at the federa-
tion level, alongside the flexibility for individual members to adapt to unique local needs.
2. “… Now for the first time the National Society is doing something of the first importance for itself. All that we have wrought before-as a National Society-has been turned over to others for the public’s use. Today we have become property holders; after all these years we have a home of our own and my plea is that we treat Bellevue [now Dumbarton House] as a home in the best sense of the word …” – President Mrs. Andrews, p. 5-6 of 20th Biennial Proceedings.
February 22, 1932. Dumbarton opened to the public. Entrance fee 50 cents.
May 3, 1932. Mrs. Herbert Hoover, wife of the president, visited Dumbarton House and was received by a committee of the officers of the Society. These entries come from A History of the National Society of the Colonial Dames of America: From 1891 to 1933 by Mrs. Joseph Rucker Lamar, 1934, p. 12
3. Page 100 of 25th Biennial Proceedings
4. Page 71 and 74 of 36th Biennial Proceedings X
Volunteerism: The Quiet Power of Giving
By Elsie Smith National Vice President for Mission Initiatives Vermont Society
In a society that often measures value in dollars, the act of giving our time remains one of the most meaningful contributions we can make. Since our founding, Dames have understood this truth. Volunteer service, whether preserving historic homes, advancing civic education, conducting oral histories, or supporting those who serve, has always been central to our identity. “Dames are Doers,” not for recognition, but for the lasting impact of our work.
Service also strengthens our bonds with one another. Working side by side, we share not only tasks but values, building connections rooted in purpose and action.
While our lineage ties us to the past, it is through service that we shape the present and safeguard the future. As storytellers, memory-keepers, and champions of citizenship, Dames carry forward a legacy of thoughtful, committed volunteerism.
Valuable are the hours you give Outstanding the results you achieve Loyal in service, sincere in purpose
Unfailing in dedication throughout the year
Notable in every contribution made Trusted in each responsibility taken Eager to reach every goal
Effective in the work you fulfill Ready with encouragement and care
Steadfast and exceptional—that is who you are.
Giving is not only measured in money, it is measured in time, devotion, and heart. The unseen hours, the letters written and emails sent, the events organized, and the hands held all reflect what it means to serve with generosity and purpose. Dames are doers, leaders, and builders of community, and your service leaves an enduring mark. Thank you for being a Dame! X
Female Quaker Ministers make the NSCDA ROA!
Midwives in Colonial America are Qualifying Female Ancestors
By: Molly Carey, Barbara Lagasse, Lisa Liles
Female Quaker Ministers make the NSCDA ROA!
By Molly Jordan Carey and Lisa Baker Liles Co-Chairs Founding Females Initiative Virginia and Indiana Societies
By: Molly Carey, Barbara Lagasse, Lisa Liles
Joan Steitz, Ph.D., is the Sterling Professor at the Yale School of Medicine. In her extensive writings about the history of women in medicine, she states: “From the midwives of ancient times to recent Nobel Prize winners, women have always had a role in the advancement of medicine.” 1 But, we didn’t need her to tell us that. Because our female DNA creates women as caregivers, we instinctively know that in every century women stand out as healers. And, without a doubt they played a central role in medicine in early Colonial America.
As respected members of their communities, midwives were the go-to healthcare providers. They practiced family planning and care during pregnancy, delivery of the babies and postpartum care for both mothers and newborns. For the first 250 years of American history it was the midwives who attended almost all births.2 Midwives were in charge in the labor room which was also filled with female family and friends. ““Midwife” literally means “with woman” or “a woman who is with the mother at birth.” Midwives also prepared bodies for burial and treated illnesses and injuries.
Lydia Peters Baldwin (#137) of New Hampshire had a 50 year practice as a midwife and kept a detailed diary of her cases through which we know of her success in birthing 926 children. Catherine Kaidyee Blaikley (#21) of Virginia had a 32 year career and birthed one-and-a-half times the Capital of Williamsburg’s population of 2,000 equalling 3,000 babies. This amazing feat earned her the title of “an Eminent Midwife” in
an article announcing her death in The Virginia Gazette. And, Hallelujah Brown Olney (#124) of Rhode Island, another “Eminent Midwife” birthed “upwards of 3,000 children” during her 36 year career.
And, here’s an interesting item of interest: midwives were extensively knowledgeable in herbal remedies. According to Barbara Ehrenreich and Dierdre English many of the midwives’ remedies still have a place in modern pharmacology. They used ERGOT during and after labor — drugs used today to stop post-partum hemorrhaging. They also used BELLADONNA to inhibit uterine contractions when miscarriage threatened.
Colonial New Amsterdam was governed by the Dutch West India Company. Midwives were seen as vital members of a community who provided essential healthcare to the citizens. They were so highly regarded that the Dutch West India Company employed midwives and provided them with housing and salaries. These “Town Midwives” were actively regulated and eventually served in a hospital setting. Tryntje Roelofs Jonas (#235) was a Town Midwife in New Amsterdam and is believed to have been the first midwife in New Netherland and the first professional midwife anywhere in the 13 colonies. In 1655 after the English took over and renamed the colony New York, midwives continued to be recognized as essential providers of healthcare, highlighting their importance in the community. In the same year the new city councilors appointed Hillegond (Joris) Cornelissen Pieterszen-Ketaltas (#237) midwife of the city, with a monthly salary and board money.
Unfortunately not all midwives were secure in their positions. Alice Frost Blower Tilly (#64) of Massachusetts began her practice in 1640. Around 1649 she was accused of malpractice, the details of which are unknown, found guilty and sent to the jail in Boston. A group of women in the area prepared several petitions stating Alice was “the ablest midwife we know in the land.” Over 300 women signed the petitions and Alice was ultimately freed.
Maria Brendel Bonn (#171) began her midwife career in Salem, North Carolina in 1744. Married to Jacob Bonn, a doctor, she learned minor surgical techniques from him and practiced additional medical needs in addition to midwifery. In Connecticut we find Priscilla Chesebrough Palmer (#152) whose life remains partially obscured by time. She is remembered as a respected and vital figure in her community—an “eminent midwife” whose loss was deeply felt according to her death notice, printed in the New-London Gazette on August 15, 1766. Elizabeth Crockford Gardiner (#220) who lived in Burlington, West Jersey, served her community as a midwife for more than twenty years. An early history of Pennsylvania calls her a woman “of worthy and eminent character.”
As early as the mid-1800’s medical practices were becoming more
Footnotes
“medicalized” in America. Home and community-based care was shunned for more scientific and safer practices. The American Medical Association was founded in 1847 with the goals of scientific advancement, setting standards for medical education, establishing a code of medical ethics, and improving public health. Their campaign against midwifery actively worked to discredit midwives, portraying them as unscientific and dangerous, and advocating for hospital--based, male--physician led care. The growing pharmaceutical industry aided in the campaign to discredit midwives. This successful campaign effectively shifted public perception against traditional midwifery, which is probably why midwives, as a service for qualifying female ancestors, were met with argument when originally suggested in 2014 by the Virginia Society. Today the profession of midwives is experiencing a rebirth with increasing recognition for its role in providing comprehensive reproductive and primary care for women.
Please visit the Founding Females Index on the NSCDA website public page under Ancestors to read about more midwives in our American colonies. Biographies are added as they are written for all our Founding Females.
1. Women physicians over the centuries, Yale Medicine Magazine, 2018 – Spring. Snapshots of women throughout the history of medicine, Joan Steitz, PhD, Sterling Professor of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry.
2. Kirkman, Alyssa (Spring 2013) “The Meeting of Mothers, Midwives, and Men,” Tenor of Our Times: Vol. 2, Article 4. Available at: https://scholarworks.harding.edu/tenor/vol2/iss1/4
Celebrating our 270th female qualifying ancestor!
As of 16 October 2025 there are now 270 females on the NSCDA Register of Ancestors!
Annual Conference Recap
The 2025 National Conference brought together Dames from across the country for three days of learning, collaboration, and celebration in historic Charleston, South Carolina. With its remarkable architecture, deep colonial roots, and enduring preservation efforts, Charleston offered the perfect setting for a gathering centered on this year’s theme: Building Connections — connections with history, with one another, and with the future of our mission.
This year’s conference welcomed over 250 Dames from 41 Corporate Societies, along with more than 50 guests who share our dedication to preservation, patriotic service, and education. The enthusiasm was palpable as members reunited with old friends, forged new relationships, and engaged with ideas that will help shape the next chapter of the NSCDA.
The program featured more than 15 educational sessions, lectures, and workshops, giving attendees the chance to explore a wide range of topics essential to our mission. Sessions addressed innovative historic site stewardship, organizational leadership, digital engagement, and more — ensuring that leaders at every level left the conference better equipped and inspired to serve their Societies and communities. These conversations reinforced the importance of collaboration and creativity as we prepare for the upcoming America 250 commemoration.
Historic Charleston itself became part of the learning experience. Throughout the week, Dames were invited to visit eight museums and historic sites, deepening their understanding of the region’s layered stories and preservation efforts. One especially memorable high-
light was the optional tour to Middleton Place, where over 75 Dames gathered to explore the gardens and interpretation, reflect on the complexities of history, and enjoy time together in a stunning setting.
A key moment that brought the conference theme to life took place during the closing session, when members used the FamilyTree Search app to discover ancestral connections with fellow Dames in real time. Laughter, surprise, and joy filled the room as participants uncovered shared lineages and strengthened the bonds that tie us together not just by mission — but by history. Charleston also served as an exciting milestone for major national initiatives. Members were thrilled to see — and purchase — two long-awaited items for the first time: the America 250th celebration scarf and the Great American Treasures coffee table book, both beautifully designed to honor our mission and support our work nationwide. Their debut generated enthusiastic energy and pride as we look ahead to 2026 and beyond.
While the sessions and tours were exceptional, it was the spirit of connection that truly defined the week. Throughout receptions, meals, and hallway conversations, Dames shared insights, exchanged ideas, and encouraged one another — embodying the purpose-driven sisterhood that makes our organization so strong. As we departed Charleston, we carried with us new knowledge, renewed passion, and deeper appreciation for the women who built our legacy — and those who continue it today.
Thank you to everyone who joined us in Charleston for an unforgettable National Conference. We look forward to continuing to build connections together — next stop: Chicago in 2027! X
Heroes Among Us
By Marianna MacIntyre National Mission Outreach Chair South Carolina Society
There was standing room only, even in the balcony, when General Livingston and Captain Cohick gave their engaging and heartfelt talk of their harrowing experiences, serving our country. We learned of the respect and camaraderie within the military and the General kept saying if you want us to win, let us do our job. Even with their hands tied, they performed their duty with honor, courage and pride. We were very grateful to hear their first hand accounts of outstanding service. A contribution will be made to the Patriots Point Nobel Warrior Fund in their honor.
Major General James E. Livingston (Towns, Georgia) began his military career in Vietnam. He received the Medal of Honor, May 1970 and is one of only 61 living MOH recipients. He was charged with the evacuation of Saigon, April 1975. More: https://www.cmohs.org/recipients/james-e-livingston
Captain Cohick is a 2017 graduate of the U. S. Air Force Academy, he has 1,800 flying hours, 250 are combat hours. In 2021 he was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for his role in Operation Allies Refuge, as the C-17 Co-Pilot on the historic last plane out, during the evacuation of Kabul, Afghanistan. Currently he is shaping the next generation of soldiers, as a C-17 instructor pilot.
Saigon Getty Images
Kabul, Afghanistan
U. S. Air Force Images
Captain Howlett Cohick
Major General James E. Livingston
Editor’s Notes
Editor’s Notes
Mission Outreach Spotlight
Jennie K. Leavell
Jennie K. Leavell
By Marianna MacIntyre National Mission Outreach Chair
South Carolina Society
Dames are Doers. This we know for sure.
Our Mission Outreach Committee is happy to announce an additional project initiative for you, our membership! Last fall, we offered fun, tradition and connection with “VOLAN,” the acronym for five interlocking mission outreach initiatives.
1. Veterans History Project: Marilyn Case mscase@cox.net
2. Oral Histories of Dames: Meg Beasley megdb2@gmail.com
3. Great American Treasures Lecture Series: “Food for Thought” Courtenay Wood crwoodhnj@aol.com
…then, we offered a sixth initiative, the cataloging of all of the NSCDA Societies’ 250th events.
Our Committee’s bucket was getting full, but Ladies, when Mama had her seventh child, she said, “There’s always room for one more” and we agreed. We added a seventh which provides a flexible opportunity for you and yours to be of service on your schedule. Done in a Day! (DiD!) is a new pop up project. Choose one project or choose them all—whatever works for you. Each project can actually be completed in a less than a day and you can say, “I DiD it!”
September & Beyond: Welcome Naturalization Ceremonies continue monthly across the country. Attend a ceremony in your area. To find dates and locations near you email Amélie Cagle, awcagle@gmail.com. She knows how to find ceremonies in your area and she has NC stickers for Dames and children to wear to each ceremony! Check the NSCDA.org calendar, too!
November: Respect
Celebrate Veterans Day. Near November 1st, place flags or flowers in Veterans’ section of your town’s cemetery. It is a great outing for scouts and children…and donuts on the way home can bring out additional smiles!
February: Love
Remember Veterans for Valentine's Day. February 1st, mail a valentine to our three honorary WWII veterans. All ages will enjoy engaging in this heartwarming event, coordinated by our Young Dames! Information to follow in January via eDispatch. More information to follow in January’s eDispatch.
March: Learn
American Heroines: Watch the Founding Females documentary video, For the Common Good: The Women Who Shaped Our Nation. Thanks to the Pennsylvania Society.
July: Honor
"Light Your Porch Night" Dusk to Dawn Independence Day July 4th, 2026 Celebrate America's 250th and honor our ancestors who set the stage and paved the American way for each of us!
Done in a Day! consists of these five fun, intergenerational projects that can be completed in less than a day. These projects gather us together, help others, teach our children and further our Colonial Dames mission. Have fun with one or all five…just step into it. And for all who participate, let us know and we’ll send you the NSCDA “I DiD! it!” printable template by return email. Step into the seventh project with Elizabeth Rawl: erawl58@gmail.com
Yes, Mission Outreach’s “VOLAAND” Committee has grown because, indeed, Dames are Doers and they have been doing and giving since 1891.For this we are truly thankful.
Congressional Essay Contest
By Evelyn Griswold
National Chair for Scholarships, Grants and Awards Virginia Society
Hailing from 24 states, Fifty one students, some from our largest cities and some from our most rural regions, converged on the American University campus in Washington, D.C. in late June to begin their intensive civics lesson and their prize for writing winning essays in the NSCDA’s Congressional Essay Contest.
Their week would feature a mock congress, visits to congressional delegations, guest lectures, and visits to DC’s historic sites and museums. During the process of writing bills in their mock congress, students collaborated with others having very different views from their own and formed fast friendships in the process. “I found friends for life here” was a common refrain.
Upon arrival, students were assigned to one of three groups tasked with proposing constructive public policy to address one of three questions: how to close the income gap, how to limit misuse of artificial intelligence, and how/whether term limits might be applied to any of the three branches of our government. By curfew on their first evening, the three groups had each already elected their leadership, defined what specific aspects of their topic they were to address, and developed the outline for their bill. In their plenary session, they vigorously debated each of the proposed bills, observing parliamentary procedure throughout.
A highlight of students’ excursions occurred in the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier as four of our scholars solemnly laid their wreath. Other excursions included a docent-led visit to the Supreme Court, a twilight tour of the Lincoln, Vietnam War, and Korean War memorials, walking tours of the White House and President’s Park, an afternoon at the Holocaust Museum and individual choices of the Smithsonian Museums.
The closing night dinner cruise on the Potomac River remains
a perennial favorite. The students savored their last evening together. Some lingered on deck after dinner playing Connect Four, chatting together, or just pensively taking in the sights on shore. Most students eventually welcomed the call of a DJ to keep the dance floor full below.
The students ended their time together with new appreciation for how our government works, new confidence in their own powers as citizens, and new friends.
How your grandchildren can become CEC Scholars As a benefit of being a Dame, you can nominate your high school-aged children or grandchildren to attend the Congressional Seminar each June as Legacy Scholars. These scholars are not required to submit an essay but are encouraged to be familiar with the topic.
One Dame who sent two of her grandchildren shared: “We are so excited that a grandson is a legacy and attending the upcoming Congressional Essay program shortly. A granddaughter did so five years ago, and it opened up many opportunities for her to actively pursue other such efforts. It’s wonderful that the legacy effort is available to our members.” – J. Burnham
This long-running essay contest and seminar continues to enlighten and inspire the students who participate. It also strengthens our NSCDA mission of promoting education and patriotism. We can be proud the NSCDA, and our Corporate Societies support such a meaningful and impactful program.X
Great American Treasures Is On Its Way
By August Czeschin
Great American Treasures Coordinator NSCDA at National Headquarters Dumbarton
House
After nearly a decade in the making and thanks to the time, expertise, and generous donations of Dames across the country, as well as the dedication of the staff who care for our 75 historic partner sites, this long-anticipated publication is now available to order.
At more than 300 pages and filled with hundreds of beautiful images, Great American Treasures is a powerful visual and narrative testament to the NSCDA’s commitment to preserving America’s story. The book highlights more than a century of preservation work and lifts up the stories of the women who made it possible. From the early colonial period to the industrial age and beyond, it offers readers a sweeping journey through the nation’s past, told through the buildings, objects, and landscapes Dames have worked so hard to protect.
The book is a celebration not only of our sites, but also of the remarkable people whose lives unfolded within them. From Jamestown Church and the Plymouth Rock Canopy to President Herbert Hoover’s childhood home in Oregon, Great American Treasures spans the full breadth of American history and geography. It introduces readers to the residences of Founding Fathers and Mothers, like George Mason and Dorothy Quincy Hancock, to California ranchers, to those who labored in the houses and on the land, and to influential figures like Chicago’s eminent Black leader, Bishop Louis Henry Ford. Together, these stories reflect the rich, diverse, and often complex heritage that has shaped the United States.
Published in honor of the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary, Great American Treasures is a gift to the country from the NSCDA. It reminds the public that the Dames have been preserving the
physical evidence of American history for more than 130 years, more than half the life of the nation itself. It is also a tribute to what can be accomplished when women lead the way in historic preservation and education. It is no exaggeration: many of these sites would not have survived without the sacrifices of the Dames who came before us and those who continue that work today. Our Dames preserved these places not for personal gain, but for posterity.
The response so far has been nothing short of extraordinary. Over 1,600 copies have already been pre-ordered, with Corporate Societies and Great American Treasures sites across the country placing orders in support. A special shoutout goes to the Hawaii Corporate Society which—though the last to join the Union—was the very first to place its order and take part in this national celebration. Dames are finding creative and meaningful ways to share the book: raffling copies at fundraising events, partnering with local bookstores to promote the NSCDA during the 250th anniversary, and incorporating the book into public programing. Many Dames have also gifted copies to friends, family members, and community leaders to showcase the impact of our work and the NSCDA’s legacy of Preserving History Since 1891.
If you have not yet ordered your copy of Great American Treasures: Women Preserving History Since 1891, we invite you to visit the NSCDA online gift shop. You can also contact your Corporate Society to see if additional copies are available to order through them. This book belongs on the shelf of anyone who believes in the power of history, preservation, and the legacy of women making a difference.
250 Masterpieces from our Great American Treasures
By Sarah Heatwole National Museum Alliance Collections Chair California Society
In celebration of America’s 250th, The NSCDA Museum Alliance Committee plans to highlight collection masterpieces from each of our Great American Treasures (GAT) properties. Drawing from the collections of over 60 of our historic house museums, we will select a total of 250 objects from across the nation and compile a list with a picture of each unique object and description of its historic importance and provenance. This list of pictures and descriptions of our 250 NSCDA Masterpieces will be posted on our GAT website and distributed to each of our state society’s Museum Alliance Chairs and GAT directors.
Contacting the curators at each of our 67 properties, we have asked what they consider to be “the masterpieces of their collection.” Our first responders have given us a fascinating variety of historic pieces including handmade quilts, samplers, portraits as well as a Chinese export punch bowl, flint lock rifle, a noctograph and a statue of Saint Mary, the Immaculata.
We are hoping to have at least one collection masterpiece from each of our Great American Treasure sites across the nation. If you have a masterpiece to include in our Semiquincentennial celebratory list of 250, please submit your picture and description to Sarah C. Heatwole, sarahcheatwole@gmail.com.
NSCDA Community Enriching our Members
By Caroline Hazard Goedhart National Membership Chair
Washington Society
In August, the Membership Committee held a Dames Discovery Live session. In putting this session together what really resonated with me was the sense of community which exists amongst Dames. No matter your age, where you live or when you meet another Dame – there is always an immediate connection. We wanted to share some examples of this sense of community and how it has impacted some of our Dames.
We interviewed six Dames across three themes – Young Dames, some examples of how the Dames have impacted two lives and Courtesy Dames. Key insights from the interviews include:
From both Rowena Dasch (TX) and Svea Hall (GA), two working Dames, we heard how being involved with the Dames added a whole different set of friends and interests from their work environment, substantially enriching their lives.
From Carole Gunst (MA), a Courtesy member in three Corporate Societies, being able to connect with Corporate Societies where she had ancestorial connections was important. For Barbara Linville (IL), her Courtesy Florida membership allowed her to interact with Dames who have a variety of interests and
experiences from other Corporate Societies.
Caro Williams (CO) talked about taking a risk and getting involved on the national level. Whether it be through our three houses (Dumbarton House, Gunston Hall or Sulgrave Manor) or one of our National Committees, being involved on the national level provides a whole new perspective on the NSCDA and an enriching experience.
And finally, our two young Dames talked about how being on the Young Dames trip was all about connecting and friendship. They discussed how they now have good friends across the country because of the trip(s). They also mentioned that being in their local Young Dames group has resulted in them being more engaged. We loved hearing this: they are our future leaders!
The interviews were inspiring and many thanks to all our interviewers and interviewees! I encourage you to listen to the recordings and hope that you think about how to increase the sense of community in your Corporate Society and/or your Town Committee.
Breathing Life into Ancestry,
By Kate Loyle
Becoming American is a multi-generational saga about one family’s four centuries’ long struggle in the New World. The author and narrator Margaret Rose DeStefano (Peggy) clearly states, “I see dead people. I hear them. I feel them. They were my ancestors, some who left Great Britain four hundred years ago and their descendants.”
This book traces their history, bringing to life who they were, their hopes, their fears, their values, how and when they lived and died. The story also explores what they believed, their struggles, achievements, skills, what they endured, who they married, their children and who they became and who their descendants became.
They were among the earliest migrants who settled in the New World. They came prior to 1625 and were joined by hundreds of other migrant travelers who crossed the Atlantic Ocean, each with his or her own story. Her family were Puritans seeking religious freedom. Oh, the irony in that!
The author begins the saga with the historically documented story of her long-ago grandmother Alice Lake, a woman unjustly hanged as a witch outside of Boston in 1658. The story follows the generations up from her to present day.
When a new company of Puritans settle in the area of Dorchester, Massachusetts, Alice, the first heroine in the book, notices a handsome young man in the group named Henry Lake. Henry and the Puritans who arrived in this second wave of colonists in New England sought to create “a city upon a hill” whose light would shine out and illuminate the world they lived in. Alice and Henry court, marry, have four children and then in 1651 Alice loses a child in childbirth and is hanged for witchcraft in her Puritan colony. Their story is touching and heartbreaking.
Alice’s husband Henry abandons his children and flees the Puritan colony. The children are split up and sent to different families to raise. Life in the town of Dorchester was unfriendly to the children of witches. Alice’s oldest child, her daughter Elizabeth, helps her siblings stay in touch with each other until they can escape the scorn and judgment of their community.
Elizabeth reunites the Lake family with their father who dies not long after. The family continues its trek through Colonial America and through American history as the author tell the stories of the documented history of each generation for four hundred years. This powerful saga combines the known personalities of ancestors of the Knowles family with the history of each era.
Coming to America provided opportunities they would have never known otherwise. They joined the indigenous people who already
The DeStefanos Craft a Powerful Story X
possessed this land. They made room for themselves, taking over the land and pushing the Natives further and further west.
In this hostile, undeveloped wilderness, the author’s ancestors, along with other colonists, learned how to survive and how to live successfully. It wasn’t easy. They formed villages, towns, and colonies. They developed customs and laws. They learned how to make a better life for themselves and their families by coming together. By the time the American Revolution began in 1775, 2.5 million people were American colonists. These migrants gave birth to a new nation committed to the ideals of liberty, equality, natural and civil rights, and responsible citizenship. This was the only government that derived its power and purpose from its people. This was, and is, not just the author’s ancestors story; it is also America’s story.
In tracing the lives of her ancestors, the author cleverly shares with the readers the understanding that becoming American and becoming America is an unending story perfectly joined. The reader becomes intimately aware of the people in the author’s family who have gone before. You learn when they were born, when they married, and when they died. Official documents such as wills, land sales and entanglements with the law trace their lives. It’s all recorded.
When reading this historical fiction, you go a step further, and with the help of the muse, you get to know the people. You explore the era they lived in and what motivated them. You believe the author’s ancestors are cheering her on. They are so glad that she is giving them a second life! Their conversations become natural because the author knows who she is writing about.
The book has several themes; one is the independence and strength of the women who helped form America. The women were certainly as big a part of it as the men.
Another theme one might learn about the American experience through this book is to know that real people lived our history and they experienced the time they were in. These ancestors shout loudly not to forget them and to know that they made us who we are. History is not stagnant.
The author captured some of her ancestors’ spirit and was able to breathe life into their stories. In tracing the lives of her ancestors, the author shares with the readers the understanding that becoming American and becoming America is an unending journey.
One of my favorite parts of the book is the Epilogue. Here, the narrator writes a letter to her deceased mother and shares her gratitude to all her ancestors and appreciation for their sacrifices and all they endured.
Dames, Delft and Discoveries
By Anna Duff NSCDA Honorary President
There’s just something about Delftware. Those gleaming blue and white pieces, the iconic tin-glazed earthenware that really flourished in the Dutch town of Delft from about 1620 to 1850. It’s such a beloved ceramic form, with those vibrant cobalt hues on milky white surfaces, and the intricate designs and striking silhouettes are just captivating. You can dive right into the world of this renowned decorative art with New York Dame Genevieve Wheeler Brown, a decorative arts advisor and the author of the recently published Beyond Blue and White (Pegasus Books/Simon & Schuster).
Genevieve was actually inspired by the Delftware collection of the Colonial Dames of New York, and in her book, she explores women’s lives from the 17th to 20th centuries, including our very own Dames, all through the lens of Dutch Delftware. In this interview, we delve into Genevieve’s research and what she found, including the hidden histories and intricate details of female ingenuity and resilience, all beautifully interwoven with the enduring allure of these iconic ceramics.
Beyond Blue and White delves into the “hidden history” of Delftware and the women behind it. What was the most surprising or unexpected discovery you unearthed about these women during your research, and how did it challenge your initial perceptions?
One of the most surprising and truly delightful discoveries was the sheer number of women who were owners of Delftware potteries, particularly the widows. My initial perception, like many, was that the Guild system would have completely excluded women from such significant business roles. But the records from the Delft City Archives revealed that nearly a quarter of all Dutch Delftware pottery owners from the mid-17th through the mid19th century were female. This completely reshaped my understanding of female entrepreneurship in that era.
The story of the 18th century puzzle jug, marked with Geertruij Verstelle’s initials, seems to be a pivotal moment for you. How did holding that single piece of Delftware transform your understanding of women’s contributions to the art world?
Standing in the gallery at the Dames Headquarters in New York, holding that puzzle jug with Geertruij Verstelle’s initials, GVS, was a profound moment for me. As I describe in the book, it was a “sparkling ceramic fragment, an archaeological sherd
unearthed in rough soil, focusing my vision and my thoughts”. In the art world, particularly in the early modern era, it’s incredibly rare for women to have left their names on works of art. So to find her initials, signifying her as the pottery’s owner—a woman named Geertruij, meaning “spear of strength”—was incredibly powerful. It immediately raised the question: “Who was she? Were there others like her?” It transformed my understanding from an abstract notion of women’s unseen contributions to a very tangible, personal connection to a specific female artisan and entrepreneur.
Your research took you to various archives, from overflowing closets in New York to the Delft City Archives. What was the most challenging aspect of unearthing these hidden histories, and how did it challenge your initial perceptions?
The most challenging aspect was definitely the sheer volume and fragmented nature of the sources, combined with the language barrier and paleography in the Dutch archives. But it wasn’t just the difficulty of reading an old script; it was that women’s contributions were often embedded within broader family, business, administrative records, rarely explicitly highlighted. It was like piecing together a vast, intricate puzzle, where glimpses of women’s lives were “gleaned from many separate spheres across a myriad of contexts and sources”.
The book beautifully blends historical fact with evocative descriptions, almost bringing the past to life. How did you balance rigorous historical research with the narrative challenge of making these stories engaging and accessible to a wide audience?
Are there any other hidden histories or unsung female figures you›re curious to explore next?
That balance was one of the most important aspects of the writing process. I believe that historical scholarship doesn’t have to be dry or inaccessible. My goal was to immerse the reader in the world of these women, to make their experiences tangible and relatable, without sacrificing historical accuracy. This involved synthesizing information from dense archival documents with descriptive passages inspired by contemporary accounts, paintings, and even the objects themselves. For instance, visualizing the “pottery hum[ming] with activity” in 1769 Delft or imagining Barbara Rotteveel navigating the bustling streets helped to create a vivid backdrop for the historical details. The aim was to offer a “richer, more complete picture of inspiring female contributions” that feels alive.
Oh, absolutely! The process of writing this book has truly opened my eyes to the vast number of hidden histories waiting to be uncovered. While I’m still deeply immersed in the world of Delftware, I’m increasingly fascinated by “lost interiors.” By lost interiors, I mean historical spaces that no longer exist in their original form. These spaces, like Queen Mary II’s Water Gallery at Hampton Court Palace, may have been dismantled or destroyed, leaving no surviving architectural plans or renderings. Researching them involves piecing together fragmented historical accounts, journals, and surviving objects to reimagine their original opulence and design. I’m also dying to learn more about 19th-century mavericks, particularly Benjamin Franklin’s great-granddaughter, Pennsylvania Dame Elizabeth Duane Gillespie, and her circle in Philadelphia. There are so many unsung female figures whose ingenuity and impact deserve to be brought to light.
Dames
Beyond Blue and White highlights the crucial role of The National Society of The Colonial Dames of America, particularly in the State of New York. What initially drew you to explore their connection to Delftware and the broader history of American decorative arts?
My connection to the New York Colonial Dames’ Delftware was quite serendipitous, a journey that unfolded organically. I was asked to review the collection in 2019, when its display cases needed conservation. In the process of researching the pieces and their provenance, one discovery led to the next, revealing the many women involved. As impressive as the Delftware collection itself was, equally impressive were the many women I “met” through my research. Their remarkable vision to preserve American history, including its Dutch roots, and their dedication to creating the Van Cortlandt House Museum and proactively collecting and displaying decorative arts, particularly Delftware, became a central thread in the book’s narrative.
The book details how the Colonial Dames transformed the neglected Van Cortlandt Mansion into a public museum, even before women had the right to vote. What was the most significant hurdle they faced in this ambitious undertaking, and how did they overcome it?
The most significant hurdle the Colonial Dames faced in the mid 1890’s was gaining public and political validation for their vision, especially as women in an era when they lacked fundamental
rights like voting. They were essentially proposing what was a new concept – a public museum in a historic building – and doing so as an all-female group. This required not just the approval of New York City, but the New York State Legislature. They overcame this by employing astute lobbying efforts, led by figures like Justine Van Rensselaer Townsend, who personally lobbied the governor and state legislators. They presented a compelling case for the mansion’s historical significance and their ability to meticulously manage and curate a public institution, ultimately succeeding in getting a landmark act passed to transfer custodianship to them.
You describe the Colonial Dames as creating their own “Historical Museum” at a time when women were excluded from most institutional boards. How radical or pioneering was this act in the context of late 19th and early 20th-century American society?
It was incredibly radical and pioneering. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, institutional power, especially in areas like museums and historical societies, was almost exclusively held by men. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, for example, wouldn’t have its first female trustee until the 1930’s. For these women to not only conceive of but then successfully finance, manage, and curate their own public museum in 1897 – the Van Cortlandt House Museum – was a profound statement of female agency and capability. They created a space where their contributions were valued and where they could lead, learn, and actively shape the narrative of American history, fundamentally challenging the prevailing norms of their time.
The book mentions prominent figures like Alice Claypoole Vanderbilt (see page 42 for a profile on Mrs. Vanderbilt) and Alice Morse Earle as members of the NSCDA. How did the collective influence and diverse talents of these women contribute to the success and lasting impact of the organization?
The collective influence and diverse talents of women like Alice Claypoole Vanderbilt, Alice Morse Earle, and Elizabeth Colt were absolutely instrumental. Vanderbilt, as a reigning empress of New York society, brought social prominence and access to a powerful network of philanthropists. Alice Morse Earle, a bestselling historian, provided the intellectual framework and popularized the stories of early American life and decorative arts, directly fueling interest in their mission. Elizabeth Colt, an indefatigable industrialist and art collector, brought business acumen and financial support. Together, their combined expertise created an unstoppable force that ensured the organization’s success and enduring legacy.
The narrative emphasizes that the Colonial Dames› work with the museum was a collaborative effort, with different women bringing their unique skills and influence. Can you give an example of how this collaborative spirit led to a particularly significant achievement for the museum›s collection or programming?
The way the Delftware collection at the Van
Cortlandt House Museum strategically grew really shows off that collaborative spirit. So many Dames, each with their own unique skills, came together to make it happen. For instance, Alice Lockwood really led that initial push for a more deliberate acquisition strategy and even helped with fundraising for the collection. Then you have Elizabeth Gould Robinson, who was the wife of the Met’s third director, and she just meticulously designed those beautiful new bronze display cases. And Florence Bates Carter, who was truly a keen and discriminating collector, acquired key pieces like the puzzle jug from the massive William Randolph Hearst collection. This alone enhanced the museum’s holdings significantly. But it wasn’t just about getting new pieces. Alice Leffingwell Buell Creelman, who was on the committee, organized exhibitions. She brought her “keen eye for art” and extensive knowledge to the table, even discreetly operating as an art dealer for collectors like Henry Clay Frick. So, you can see how all their combined expertise—from design and fundraising to keen collecting—really elevated the museum’s profile.
You note that the Colonial Dames’ decision to establish a
museum was “a lasting vehicle for female agency, ensuring that women’s contributions to history and society would endure for generations.” How do you see their legacy impacting women in the arts and historical preservation today?
Their legacy is profound, and honestly, it continues to resonate so powerfully today. The Colonial Dames really set a crucial precedent for female leadership and expertise in the cultural sector, especially when those opportunities were so limited. Their pioneering work in establishing the Van Cortlandt House Museum directly paved the way for women to take on leading roles in museums, archives, and historical preservation efforts. You know, by the 1930s, this influence really blossomed further, with New York Colonial Dames like Abby Aldrich Rockefeller co-founding MoMA , and Mildred Barnes Bliss laying the groundwork for Dumbarton Oaks. Today, you see women at the helm of major cultural institutions, and much of that progress, I truly believe, stands firmly on the foundation laid by these pioneering Dames, who demonstrated that women were not just capable, but absolutely essential stewards of our cultural and artistic heritage. X
Wrestling with Justice Quakers and Northern Slavery
by Laura Keim, Stenton Curator and Dennis Pickeral, Stenton Executive Director
Stenton, a National Historic Landmark in Philadelphia, stewarded by the NSCDA-PA for 125 years, has launched an exciting new initiative funded by the Pew Center for Arts and Heritage called Wrestling with Justice: Quakers and Northern Slavery. Visitors to Stenton are frequently surprised to learn that Quakers were enslavers as well as abolitionists, and that 18th century northern slavery looked quite different from antebellum southern slavery. In the case of Stenton, about ten enslaved and indentured workers—men, women, and children—labored all day throughout the house, outbuildings and property. They slept on mattresses on the garret room floors under the same roof as their owners and were likely located over the kitchen, laundry, and carriage house. When we picture southern slavery, we may imagine a large com-
munity of hundreds of enslaved people working in cotton fields who lived in separate cabins slightly removed from the big house.
Slavery was invisible in historic house museums for much of the 20th century. Sites rarely explained to visitors that slavery was the underbelly of 18th century gentility and part of the labor force behind the growing and harvesting of commodities like mahogany, tobacco, sugar, tea, coffee, chocolate, rice, indigo, and cotton. Even today, interpretation of enslavement tends to be confined to service spaces and outbuildings, separated from the public spaces of the main house.
Stenton is convening community conversations with neighbors,
This c.1782 schedule of formerly and still enslaved people, “An Account of the Free Negroes who live within the Limits of the Monthly Meeting for the Southern District of Philadelphia-” lists three people, Priamus, Dinah, and Cyrus, who appear on this schedule with Stenton as if it were their surname. Cyrus’ young age is precisely noted as he would not be free until he was 21 years..
core stakeholders, and specifically members of the Society of Friends from the Germantown Monthly Meeting. The goal is to address Quakers and northern slavery as concepts and to learn how our audiences and communities relate to these topics personally. A Scholars Summit with academic historians and public history professionals in December will help draw the context in a broader, deeply researched way. The sharing and discussion about the labor force at Stenton and about Quakers and enslavement will feed into an updated and rebalanced interpretive plan for Stenton, as well as programs and exhibits.
Wrestling with Justice builds on community outreach and relationships created as part of Inequality in Bronze: the Dinah Memorial Project. The historical research Stenton staff did during that project to reclaim Dinah as a woman and whole person also celebrated the local pride people felt for her heroism in having saved Stenton from intended burning by British soldiers in November, 1777. On April 20, 2024, Stenton unveiled the new Dinah Memorial, Philadelphia’s first permanent monument to a Black woman, to hundreds of joyful neighbors and supporters.
Stenton Curator, Laura Keim, recently published, “Searching for Black Lives: Re-membering and Re-voicing Stenton’s Black Community and Family” in the journal Family and Community History. The
information in the article forms a basis from which to interpret and present what we know and hope to know about Black people at the time. These and other details are glimpsed in the Logan and related family papers, many of which are housed at the Historical Society of Pennsylvania and in the Quaker Archives at Haverford College Library. We are also planning future programs on topics related to the 1688 Protest Against Slavery, drafted by Francis Daniel Pastorius in Germantown. This marked the beginning of the end of slavery in the United States, a staggered and gradual process that led to the Civil War.
The research is ongoing and Stenton staff, local Quakers, Dames and neighbors are currently deep in community conversation, looking to deepen knowledge of this important history and to understand each other’s views. As a result of this collaborative, community engaged process, Stenton will be much better positioned to educate the public about the complicated history of Quakers and northern slavery. New tours and exhibits in the museum will incorporate long-overlooked stories of enslaved, indentured, and free laborers. And as the United States prepares to celebrate the Semiquincentennial, Stenton is playing its part by working to create a diverse constellation of stories and a holistic narrative of the site that reflects America’s historical complexities. X
By Charbra Adams Jestin NSCDA Senior Representative to the Sulgrave Manor Trust (2023-2025) Connecticut Society
Tudor Gown Exhibit at Sulgrave Manor
This summer, Sulgrave Manor, the ancestral home of the Washington family in Northamptonshire, England, hosted an unusual but extremely appropriate exhibit at this Tudor manor house. The exhibit of Tudor replica gowns based on the portraits of the six wives of Henry VIII proved to be extremely popular with visitors, drawing in those who saw the announcements in leaflets and online.
Created by a company called Tudor Royalty Experience, the historically accurate dresses were fabricated using Tudor Tailor patterns, the foremost researchers in Tudor clothing, specializing in “the social history of dress with practical guidance on reconstructing historic clothing for interpretive projects.” Fabricated from modern materials, the dresses on exhibit gave a feel and an idea of how court gowns would have looked during the Tudor period.
These beautiful, replica gowns worn by the six wives of Henry VIII were displayed for the month of July along with their iconic portraits, lending a touch of sartorial reality to this very special Tudor property.
It is well worth the trip to Sulgrave Manor to see such a sight!
Food for Thought
Caroline Eisenhuth Education and Programs Manager Dumbarton House, NSCDA
The NSCDA invites members to deepen their understanding of history, culture, and preservation through its Food for Thought lecture series. This season highlights contributors to the publication Great American Treasures, featuring a diverse range of fascinating topics.
Members can look forward to several engaging talks in the coming months. On November 20, 2025, Nicole Belolan will discuss “Telling Disability Histories in Historic House Museums,” examining how museums can more inclusively represent diverse experiences. On January 15, 2026, Anastacia Scott will trace the “Origins of Creole Cuisine,” highlighting the rich culinary traditions and cultural influences that shaped this iconic cuisine. The season concludes on March 19, 2026, with Alison Bazylinski’s “The Post Office and Community in Sheridan, Wyoming,” exploring how local institutions contribute to a community’s identity and history.
Members can catch up on past talks in the Lecture Library, including Amy Hudson Henderson’s presentation, “Furniture Fit for a Queen: Anne Willing Bingham and her Little Ivory Secretary,” which explores the artistry and historical significance of Bingham’s collection.
All lectures are free for NSCDA members and provide engaging insights into the ways history, culture, and community intersect. Don’t miss this season of thought-provoking talks! Register for the upcoming lectures on the NSCDA website calendar or through the links in the Upcoming Events monthly email!
Jane Austen Assemblies
Caroline Eisenhuth Education and Programs Manager Dumbarton House, NSCDA
The Jane Austen Assemblies series invites audiences to experience Jane Austen’s world through film, literature, and history, all from the comfort of their own homes. Hosted by Dumbarton House, this virtual program pairs novels with a film screening and an expert-led lecture that brings the Regency era to life.
From Love & Friendship’s focus on Federal-period letter writing to Emma’s exploration of costume design with fashion conservator Isabella Moritz, each event blends scholarship with fun. Upcoming sessions on Pride & Prejudice and Persuasion will deepen participants’ appreciation for Austen’s legacy and celebrate her 250th birthday.
Enjoy free book club discussions, $5 movie screenings, and $5 themed lectures, complemented by reading guides, discussion prompts, and period-inspired cocktail and mocktail recipes. The Jane Austen Assemblies create a welcoming community of Austen enthusiasts eager to read, watch, and learn together. Join our next installment, Pride & Prejudice! Register at www.dumbartonhouse. org/programs.
Death, Sorrow and Strawberries A Dispatch from the Verses Project
By Susan Ross Michaelis Illinois Society
Outside my window lilies, roses and clematis rise high and vie for attention. The hummingbird feeder sways gently with visitors and squirrels lounge on the fence railings gorging themselves on green peaches. Inside I’m nearly oblivious, researching verses from the NSCDA’s Sampler Survey. Since late spring, I’ve been watching life, warmth and sun increase outside this window while I work through the “Reflections on Death and Sorrow” section, in Ethel Stanwood Bolton and Eva Johnston Coe’s American Samplers1. Originally published in 1921 by the NSCDA of Massachusetts, today’s verse project volunteers are hard at work researching the original sources of each verse the girls would add to their alphabets, numbers, and carefully stitched gardens full of life.
I’ve been absorbed in the work, enjoying the rich and challenging sources. But I have to admit the “Death and Sorrow” section has been challenging, but not perhaps in the way I expected. My mind sometimes wandered to picture Wednesday Addams or a goth teenage girl embroidering some of these mottos. Especially in the beginning I could imagine many of them could fit very nicely into punk rock lyrics of the 1980’s like verse #187:
When I am dead and in my grave And all my bones are rotten, When this you see, remember me That I mant (sic) be forgotten2.
Anne Wing of Boston, MA, stitched this when she was 13 years old in 17393. A young girl choosing death, sorrow and rotting bones as her motto may strike the modern reader as morbidly strange. Surrounding it with strawberries, flowers, birds and sheep make it even stranger. And although I can remember my own sullen petulant behavior at thirteen, none of my teachers would’ve encouraged me to memorialize any of it in my school work. That’s not what’s going on in Anne Wing’s sampler either.
Of course, the lives of these 18th and 19th century girls, usually aged between five and fourteen years, were surrounded by death far more often and closer to home than most children today. Whether by illness or accident, death was always close and certain in their lives. Their parents, teachers and clergy reminded them daily that preparation of the soul was necessary and urgent. Embroidering such a Christian message into a sampler provided memorization and meditation on the state of their souls.
Thankfully, this message wasn’t always put quite so grimly. Margaret Breck of Dorchester, MA, at just 12 years old, embroidered this theme of death with an exuberant hopeful stanza from a hymn in 1741. (p. 33 and p. 279, Bolton & Coe)4 :
On earth let my example shine And when I leave this state, May heaven receive this soul of mine To bliss divinely great
- Rev. Isaac Watts, 17345
These same lines were stitched by eight more little girls in American Samplers, from 1777 to 1823 and throughout New England. Watts’ hymns were published widely and were popular sources for the choice of verses for many samplers.
Finding the original sources of these verses is a scholar’s treasure hunt with the girls’ work as embroidered maps and the internet’s trove of published 17th-19th century original materials. Sometimes the verses vary from the original by the stitcher and I wonder, is this self expression? My modern mind hopes for it, but my cynical inner 13-year-old pipes up with “Duh, it fits better in the space that way!” We can’t know if these lines were chosen by the girls themselves, but I often think of these little girls bent over their work 300 years ago, working in a world lit by candles and well ordered by parents, pastors and school mistresses. How could they ever imagine how their work would speak for them so far into the future? Ironically these samplers speak for them beyond the death they anticipate in the verses they’re stitching.
One day last month after a long day of searching for sources, I got a text from a friend to meet her and her 12---year--old daughter for dinner. Two years ago they’d moved from suburban Chicago to Mumbai, India. Besides the happy surprise of seeing my friends, I saw my chance to find out what a modern 12--year--old would think about what her 18th century peers were getting up to. At dinner I explained the project. I told her the who, what and where of the work these girls were doing. Understanding their focus on death and sorrow and what kind of materials the verses came from was the most surprising to my 12-year-old friend. Always an insightful and curious girl, she had so many questions. And finally, “Why couldn’t these girls make up their own poetry?” she asked, “I mean, I would!” I felt my own inner 13-year-old pull up a chair. Her mom smiled and said. “You should give Mrs. Michaelis a link to your TEDTalk.”
Back home that night I pulled up the TEDTalk on YouTube, and there she was, a self assured, 12-year-old in a pink power suit. My inner 13-year-old elbowed me, “pretty cool, huh?” I nodded, impressed. Her topic, “The Power of Positivity,” appeared on the big screen behind her. It occurred to me that her message was as much a guiding motto for hopeful girls finding their way through our century as the verses stitched into the work of those 18th and 19th century girls. Her hopes and goals expressed on her vision boards weren’t that much different than the aspirations stitched on these girls’ samplers. Both gave guidance and encouragement to their makers in an uncertain world. Were the 18th and 19th century girls feeling as empowered and hopeful as my friend? Did they choose to make up their own verses? We can’t always find a source for all of the verses we search, so maybe they did.
For now, I’m finished with the “Reflections on Death and Sorrow” section. I’m on to working on the Old Testament section. The preoccupation with death, sin and sorrow in these verses remains no matter what the section’s title reads. But that’s our modern take on things. Originally, these verses offered guidance and encouragement in a world filled with unpredictable death. Just the same, we try to comfort our 21st century girls with an emphasis on empowerment, positivity and hope. Understanding the sources of each sampler’s verse helps us to understand its creator a little more. The similarities and differences with modern girls often leave me lost in thought, but my inner 13-year-old is long gone, headed outside to get some sun.
Footnotes
1 Bolton, Ethel Stanwood and Eva Johnston Coe. American Samplers. Boston: The Massachusetts Society of the Colonial Dames of America, 1921.
2 Bolton and Coe, Samplers, 279.
3 Bolton and Coe, Samplers, 87
4 Bolton and Coe, Samplers, 33, 279
5 Watts, Isaac. Sermons on Various Subjects Divine and Moral with a Sacred Hymn Suited to Each Subject: Designed for the Use of Christian Families, as Well as for the Hours of Devout Retirement, Vol. 2, London: E. Matthews, R.Ford and R. Hett, 1734. 519. X
Editor’s Notes
Revisiting the 1992 Historic Textile Survey
Jennie K. Leavell
Editor’s Notes
Jennie K. Leavell
By Isabella Kiedrowski Archives & Collections Manager
The NSCDA at National Headquarters
Dumbarton House
In 1992, the Biennial Council approved the Historic Textile Survey to gather data on the textiles in the collections of NSCDA museum properties. Focusing on textiles from between 1610 and 1910, the goal was no small one, as Nancy Kennedy admitted in her proposal.
The data gathered by the Historic Textile Survey was extensive: textiles were classified as home furnishings, bedroom furnishings, or textiles found outside the home. Subcategories included floor and window coverings, upholstery, and utilitarian items, to name just a few. Each item was to be analyzed to verify its provenance, fiber composition, construction, and condition.
One catalog item stands out as an NSCDA hallmark: whenever possible, state societies were requested to include the biography of the textile’s maker, “especially if a woman.” Using textile documentation forms created by Dr. Laurel Wilson at the University of Missouri, the museum collections across the NSCDA museum network (now Great American Treasures) were examined for all textile-based objects.
Sample textiles for reproduction
Bed rug dated 1782
The report given at the 1998 Biennial noted that regional differences were apparent across the collections, often with cultural or historic influences. Region I was notably rich in Native American woven blankets, but also many kinds of quilts that had been brought out west during waves of migration. Region II featured jacquard woven coverlets from Ohio and Indiana, where professional weavers had established themselves. In Region III, the prevalence of cotton coverlets and knitted bedspreads spoke to ubiquity of cotton in the South. But it was Region IV that turned up one of the most interesting finds: a bed rug dating from 1782 was discovered in the collection at Peachfield in New Jersey. New England, with its cold climate, was a center for the production of bed rugs, and the one found in Peachfield’s collection is in particularly good condition. Despite being the most common form of bed covering in colonial America, domestically produced bed rugs are extremely rare: only 63 are known to exist. What an exciting find for the textile survey to uncover!
Additional highlights from the survey include several pages of reproduction textile samples sent in by the Louis Bolduc House in Ste. Genevieve, Missouri, and intricately woven coverlets from Travelers Rest in Tennessee. But as a lifelong knitter, one object stood out to me: a pair of infant’s mittens from the Ximenez-Fatio House in St. Augustine, Florida, knitted in white silk thread—what a stylishly dressed infant must have owned them!
One of the great benefits of this survey was that it brought into focus the care and conservation of textile-based objects. Among the guidelines for conducting the survey were instructions for handling and storing these delicate objects, and workshops on preserving textiles were planned for NSCDA members. Thanks to the Historic Textile Survey, we now have an idea of the textiles that made up our nation, and have the tools to keep them safe for generations to come.
A pair of infant’s mittens knitted in white silk thread
Celebrating 50 Years of Collaboration Mission in Action
By Sally Connelly
National
Historian (2020–2024) Ohio Society
The Colonial Dame Room at the Cincinnati Art Museum (2025). Following the 2025 lecture, the room will be renovated and updated for a grand reopening in 2026 just in time for the Semiquicentennial and 51st Lecture in May.
In 1973, a public lecture on decorative arts that is now known as the “Colonial Dames Lecture” was endowed in partnership with the Cincinnati Art Museum. In May of 2025, Ohio Dames and their guests honored the commitment of Ruth Shippen Alter (1893 - 1987) who was the woman behind the lecture series. Today, she offers us a powerful example of our mission at work and our legacy in historic preservation.
Under the stewardship of the Ohio Dames, the popular lecture series on decorative arts is held each year at the Cincinnati Art Museum. Part of Mrs. Alter’s larger vision was to make this lecture open to the public by offering both a lecture and tea and inviting experts across the country to make presentations. This tradition, carried on every year for the past 50 plus years, (suspended only during the Covid crisis) includes an elegant Colonial Dames Tea in the Great Hall of the “Art Palace of the West.” From 1973 when Mr. Charles F. Hummel, Curator of the Henry Francis Dupont Museum, lectured on “American Furniture” to 2025 when Brendon Grom, Executive Director of the WebbDeane-Stephens House Museums (a GAT property), presented his Colonial Dames Lecture: “Other People’s Stuff: How Collections Can Bring Us Together and Teach Empathy,” the lectures have taken place during the week of the NSCDA-OH annual meeting.
Public lectures and exhibitions were once a key part of Dames history. Our first years included several collaborations with the Smithsonian before it opened its doors. One of the liveliest lectures was “Foods of the Gods: The History and Material Culture of Chocolate in Early America” which featured a Chocolate Tea in 2013 and the teapot created by artist Maria Longworth Storer (18491942).
Carolyn Koenig, Museum Alliance Chair of Ohio and Ohio President Charlotte Goering celebrated 50 years of this unique collaboration with fellow Dames and guests. For fifty years, the lecture series has featured experts hailing from Mount Vernon, Museum of Fine Arts - Boston, Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the Smithsonian, just to name a few.
March 28, 1973
Colonial Dames Lectures 1973-2025
At the Cincinnati Art Museum
Henry Sandon, Author and Ceramic Historian
“Historic Worcester Porcelain”
April 3, 1974
John C. Austin, Curator of Ceramics and Glass, Colonial Williamsburg
“Chelsea Porcelain”
March, 1975
Charles Hummel, Curator, Colonial Williamsburg
“American Furniture”
March 30, 1976
Brock Jobe, Associate Curator of Exhibition Buildings, Williamsburg
“Massachusetts Furniture”
March 22, 1977
“American Art, 1750-1800”
Charles F. Montgomery, Curator, Garvan and Related Collections of American Art, Yale University
April 5, 1978
Ann Sutherland Harris, Chairman, Academic Affairs, Metropolitan Museum of Art
“The Jewelry of Louis Comfort Tiffany: Jewelry Styles from 19021933”
May 3, 2006
Christopher Monkhouse
“Colonial Revival Courtships in Poems, Paintings and Wedding Presents”
May 2, 2007
Elizabeth Jachimowicz
“The Art of Elegant Dress: Fashion in the 18th Century”
May 3, 2008
Jeff Groff
“A Return to Simplicity”
May 6, 2009
Darra Goldstein
“The Orchestration of the Meal”
May 5, 2010
Elaine Rice Bachmann
“Designing Camelot: Jacqueline Kennedy’s Role as Tastemaker to the Nation”
May 11, 2011
Elizabeth Pachoda, editor of The Magazine Antiques “The Future of Antiques”
May 16, 2012
Diane Wright
“Innovation by Design: Stained Glass Windows at Tiffany Studios” 2013
Amanda Lange, Curatorial Department Chair and Curator of Historic Interiors at Historic Deerfield in Massachusetts
“Foods of the Gods: The History and Material Culture of Chocolate in Early America” 2014
Carrie Rebora Barratt, Associate Director for Collections and Administration, The Metropolitan Museum of Art
“Copley’s Portrait of Mary Clarke: An Exquisite Likeness” 2015
Melissa Naulin, Assistant Curator, The White House
“‘Suited to the dignity and character of the nation’: Decorative Arts and the White House” 2016
Daniel Kurt Ackermann, curator of the Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts at Old Salem Museums & Gardens
“Southern Spirits in Southern Spaces” 2017
Alice Cooney Frelinghuysen, Anthony W. and Lulu C. Wang Curator of American Decorative Arts at The Metropolitan Museum of Art
“The Other Tiffany Girl: Agnes Northrop, Designer of Windows” 2018
Colette Loll, Founder/Director of Art Fraud Insights
“Treasures on Trial: The Art and Science of Detecting Fakes” 2019
Andrew Richmond, Independent Scholar
“The History of Ohio’s First 100 Years in 10 Objects” 2020
canceled due to Covid-19 Pandemic 2021
canceled due to Covid-19 Pandemic 2023
Dr. Jennifer Van Horn, Associate Professor, University of Delaware
“Hidden Stories in Early American Interiors” 2024
Jennifer Swope, Museum of Fine Arts, Boston
“Fabric of a Nation: American Quilt Stories” 2025
Michelle Erickson, artist
“The Art of Making History”
Sara Yorke Stevenson (1847 – 1921) A Philadelphia Colonial Dame and Icon
The First to Establish a Museum Studies Program
By Sally Connelly National Historian (2020–2024) Ohio Society
Sara Yorke Stevenson (1847–1921), pictured here in a 1917 portrait painted by Leopold Seyffert for her 70th birthday. This portrait hangs in the Pennsylvania Museum Archives, a tribute to this dynamic woman’s crucial role in the Museum’s history. The first Curator of the Egyptian and Mediterranean Sections and the first woman to receive an honorary doctorate from University of Pennsylvania (in 1894). She would later serve the Museum as Secretary, and finally, as its fifth and only female President from 1904 to 1905.
Some members of our society were key to the development of our museum properties mission. However, not all of our members and leaders have their own Wikipedia page or are known as one of the first American Egyptologists.
The first museum studies program in the United States was started in 1908, at the Pennsylvania Museum’s School of Industrial Art (now the Philadelphia College of Art) by Sara Yorke Stevenson. She was an early member of our society. As a women’s rights activist, Sara served as the first president of the Equal Franchise Society and the Civic Club of Philadelphia. She was the first woman to receive an honorary degree from the University of Pennsylvania, the first woman to lecture at the Peabody Museum at Harvard University, and the first female member of the Jury of Awards for Ethnology at the World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago.
Sara was a friend of our founding society members Elizabeth Gilespie and Ann Hollingsworth Wharton (First National Historian) and joined Elizabeth’s Women’s Centennial Committee of the Philadelphia Centennial Exhibition of 1876.What resulted among the group was an exhibition known as The Women’s Pavilion that showcased “for the first time, at an international exposition, the intimate bonds, shared values, and material achievements of women.” At the time The Women’s Pavillion was hailed as a milestone in the women’s movement of the 19th century. The pavilion has kept its reputation to today. Sara was just 29 years old at this time. Sara, like many extraordinary civic leaders, was interested in the history of the Dames’ early preservation and educationional work. Many of these women paved the way in establishing our Society’s role in early historic preservation of manuscripts, artifacts, and properties.
Sara was a Suffragist, Egyptologist, and an amazing Colonial Dame. Stevenson belonged to many civic associations founding the Civic Club of Philadelphia with Mary Channing Wister. She taught the first course on Museology at the School of Industrial Arts and was a curator at the Philadelphia Museum, which later became the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The Public Ledger, one of the oldest newspapers in Philadelphia, profited from her resignation from the museum. Stevenson served as literary editor and columnist, supporting women’s suffrage and economic and social causes of the day. Her reputation grew to an international level with her activities on the French War Relief Commission after World War I. She was presented with the Legion of Honor by the French government for her contributions.
Sara Yorke was born and educated in Paris, France. Her parents found it necessary to return to America, expecting to be detained there but a short while and they left their young daughter in the care of friends devoted to her interest. From that point she continued, surrounded by notable people of the times. An intelligent listener, a capable student, and a diligent reader, she was influenced by such greats as Lamartine, Duc de Morny, Prince Murat, D’Aubigne and others famed in literary and scientific circles. These influences served to stimulate her love for study and research, expanding and fostering her latent talents.
The impressions made on her youthful mind are interestingly told in her work, Maximilian and Mexico, which was written some years later. Her book brought clarity, never before published, to the tragic death of the Mexican Emperor.
After the death of her father in 1868, she sought a musical career. The greater portion of the family’s fortune had been swept away by losses in Mexico, in the United States, and owing to the depression following the Civil War. It was then Sara found herself in New England and her finely cultivated voice brought success. Unfortunately, the severity of the climate affected her health, and her relatives insisted that she give up her career and return to them in Philadelphia. She reluctantly did.
In 1870, she married Mr. Cornelius Stevenson, a Philadelphia lawyer and art patron. After her marriage, she still studied and read systematically, following her inclination for research, especially in those things pertaining to the antiquities of Egypt. Having a rare piece of pottery, she applied to Professor Putnam of Harvard University for information concerning it, stating her own opinion of it. Recognizing her talent, Professor Putnam encouraged her to pursue her investigations. As a result, she was induced to lecture to small audiences, and her opinion on ancient lore was sought and relied upon. In 1889, she was elected a manager and appointed curator of the Egyptian section of the Department of Archaeology and Palaeontology at the University of Pennsylvania. She was instrumental in establishing the department itself.
She started a building fund in 1892 and helped erect the handsome building known as The Free Museum of Science and Art of the University of Pennsylvania, one of the five largest museums in this Country.1
In 1890 she delivered her first scientific lecture, Religion of Ancient Egypt in the course of the University Lecture Association. In 1893, she was appointed a member of the Jury for Ethnology at the World’s Columbian Exposition and elected Vice President of the Jury by her colleagues. No woman had ever before served on a Jury of award. To make her election legal, an Act of Congress to permit
women to serve had to be enacted. She delivered a lecture at Peabody Museum at Harvard in 1894 and was honored as the first woman whose name appeared on a Harvard Calendar. In June of that year, the University of Pennsylvania conferred on her the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Sciences in recognition of her services in the development of its Department of Archaeology. This was the first Honorary Degree conferred on a woman at Penn and she was appointed president of this department in 1894.
Mrs. Stevenson was one of the organizers, the first President of the Civic Club (1894-99) and President of the Acorn Club. As one of eight citizens appointed by the City Council, Mrs. Stevenson helped organize the Philadelphia Commercial Museum. She was also President of the Exchange for Women’s Work. As a woman with so many accomplishments and as a Colonial Dame, she demonstrated that scientific and archaeological attainments had in no way absorbed the womanliness of her nature, but rather developed and strengthened those qualities most admired in women.
Many valuable and interesting papers on archaeological subjects were written by Mrs. Stevenson for leading journals. She was literary editor of the Philadelphia Public Ledger, President of the Equal Suffrage 1909 and chairman of the committee for entertaining the women who accompanied the Great International Congress in May of 1912.
Reference
“Sara Yorke Stevenson: Suffragist, Egyptologist, and Pioneer.” Expedition Magazine. 62, no. 3 (September, 2020). Accessed September 03, 2025. https://www.penn.museum/sites/expedition/ sara-yorke-stevensonsuffragist-egyptologist-and-pioneer.
Alice Claypoole Vanderbilt (1845 - 1934) of New York and The Breakers
An Early Dame in 1895 – NY Member no.148
By Sally Connelly National Historian (2020–2024) Ohio Society
Portrait of Mrs. Cornelius Vanderbilt I I by Raimundo de Madrazo y Garreta recently returned to its traditional place above the Grand Staircase in The Breakers. The 1880 oil-on-canvas painting was made when she was 35 years old.
When the Dames visited The Breakers mansion in Rhode Island on the Great American Treasures tour they had no idea that “Mrs. Vanderbilt” was an early member of our society. Nor did the tour they took mention that Alice was from an old Rhode Island family and among her ancestors was Roger Williams, who founded the Colony of Rhode Island and Providence Plantation. However, the 1988 Colonial Dame lecture at the Cincinnati Art Museum, titled, “Alice Claypoole Gwinn Vanderbilt from Cincinnati to Newport” was a recollection of this iconic early member who left her mark on American society.
Alice Claypoole Gwynne was born in Cincinnati in 1845. She grew up on Pike Street near the present day Taft Museum, which was then an exclusive neighborhood. Alice’s mother was Rachel Moore “Cettie” Flagg Gwynne (1822 - 1884) and was a Claypoole descendant. When her father died in Cincinnati, her mother remarried and the family moved to New York. Alice was a first cousin of Louise Flagg Scribner (1862-1948) the wife of Charles Scribner, Jr. (1854-1930), President of Charles Scribner's Sons, Publishers, New York. Louise and Alice were both members of the New York Dames.
Alice married Cornelius Vanderbilt II on February 4, 1867, at the Church of the Incarnation on Madison Avenue in New York. They originally met while teaching Sunday School together at St. Bartholomew's Episcopal Church in New York City. She was the matriarch of the Vanderbilt family for over 60 years (mother of seven) and she preferred to always be addressed as “Mrs. Vanderbilt.” Alice joined the society in 1895 just a few years after it formed in New York. Her application and obituary are in the archives of the headquarters house in New York.
The Vanderbilts were one of the most prominent families of the “Gilded Age.” At one point they were the wealthiest family in America. Alice was responsible for constructing several massive family houses, including the enlargement of 1 West 57th Street, making it the largest private residence ever built in an American city at the time. She also played a role in constructing The Breakers in 1893 -1895 in Newport, Rhode Island. The Vanderbilt mansion on Fifth Avenue, a symbol of the Gilded Age, was sold by Alice and demolished in 1927 to make way for the Bergdorf Goodman department store, which stands on the site today.
Dames Socials
By Susan Walker Retiring Dames Socials Consultant
Tennessee Society
Although they didn’t have a name or a national presence, Dames Socials have existed since at least the 2000s when there were gatherings in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula in Leland and in Iowa at Lake Okoboji. The defining characteristic was Dames gathering for events while they vacationed in these areas, despite their membership in different Corporate Societies.
When Holly Hunt was NSCDA Membership Committee Chair, she asked the committee members to submit examples of existing programs or events that could strengthen membership. I submitted a report about a Dames gathering that I had hosted in Montreat, NC with my sister, Judy Gregory. Lila Ray had hosted a similar gathering in Montreat the previous year to introduce her daughter, a new Dame, to the local community of Dames who were also members of Corporate Societies from all over the southeast. Having read about the earlier gatherings in Leland and Lake Okoboji when they were reported in Dames publications over 15 years ago, I thought that this kind of gathering would appeal to members in their vacation locations throughout the country.
Under the auspices of the Membership Committee, we established the official concept for these gatherings in the spring of 2023. Holly joined me as Co-Chair of this undertaking which we called Dames Socials. As we communicated about these gatherings through Dames networks, we discovered that the Pamlico Town Committee in North Carolina had been inviting vacationing Dames to their summer Town Committee meetings – another example of a Dames Social that preexisted the official creation.
One of the exciting features of Dames Socials is that they are a grass-roots effort by our members to bring together Dames who would not ordinarily get together as Dames. Dames Socials are not sponsored or organized by the National Society or the Corporate Societies. They come from a desire by our members to get together and they can take many forms. From coffees or luncheons to overnight or day events, they can be whatever works for the Dames who want to host a Social. The defining characteristic is that the Social brings together Dames from several Corporate Societies.
As members of the NSCDA Membership Committee, the Dames Socials Co-Chairs function as publicists and record-keepers as well as resources for Dames Socials throughout the country. They also encourage Dames who might be interested in hosting a Social. In 2023 there were four Socials, held in Atlantic Beach, NC, Tannersville, NY, Highlands/Cashiers, NC and Montreat, NC. That number has grown to eight Socials in 2024, held in Virginia, North Carolina, New York state, Illinois, Tennessee and Idaho. In 2025, 11 Socials were held in California, Florida, Indiana, North Carolina, New York state, Illinois, Tennessee, Idaho, Michigan and Virginia.
A popular and growing initiative, Holly and I are pleased to turn over the responsibility for the Dames Socials to Mary Carter of Illinois and Kathryn Lerch of Indiana with the support of Sonya Wolsey-Paige of Illinois, who has provided invaluable help in promoting Dames Socials since their official inception in 2023. These ladies are enthusiastic about the program and are ready to help anyone who would like to host a Dames Social.
For more information about Dames Socials, visit the webpage at: https://nscda.org/members/dames-socials/ X
2/24/25
Thank you to Dames organizers Rebecca Bromley and Brenda Nardi for launching the Dames Social 2025 season, giving the Socials playbook a warm twist! Word reached us from the sunbaked oasis of Palm Desert, where 11 Dames from five states (WA, ID, CO, MO and CA) gathered for a scrumptious pre-fixe menu luncheon at The Daily Grill in Palm Desert.
This Winter Social was predictably fabulous—think Dames from a mix of Societies in the company of old friends and new acquaintances. Elevating spirits to something approaching an impeccable Dames Social moment. Every guest took home a pretty dish towel decorated with a picture of Dumbarton House and everyone competed in a Mayflower pop-quiz. The three best scorers won a bag of Kentucky’s Liberty Hall Museum’s loose leaf black tea—created to commemorate Lafayette’s Kentucky visit. For those not in the know: on May 14, 1825, Liberty Hall welcomed General Marquis de Lafayette, the French hero of the American Revolution. General Lafayette was entertained with a ball at Weisiger’s Tavern before stopping at Liberty Hall to visit Margaretta Brown.
3/2/25
When Anna Duff reached out to Amelia Island Dames about planning a luncheon during the Ponte Vedra retreat of the former Comprehensive Campaign Steering Committee, they went above and beyond. What emerged was an alchemy of welcoming and belonging. It was a day trip that offered a thoughtful complement of place, purpose and people that far exceeded expectations.
Sarah Heatwole and Allison Crisp conceived of a plan for a Dames Social day trip to explore historic St. George Island, culminating in a luncheon at the Long Point Club at Amelia Island. Starting with worship at St. George Episcopal Church, where the Dames were graciously welcomed, they spent the rest of the morning at the historic Ribault Club and then a guided tour of Kingsley Plantation.
Joined by several more local Dames at the Club for lunch, a delightful time was shared by all. In addition to Florida Dames, the Social was enjoyed by Dames from Georgia, West Virginia, Tennessee, Massachusetts, Vermont, Wyoming, California and the District of Columbia. These Dames highly recommend a day trip for a Dames Social. It proved to be a wonderful day of togetherness!
5/17-18/25
In beautiful spring weather, the 2025 Indiana Dames Social took place May 17–18 in historic New Harmony, Indiana. It was inspired by the 2024 Tannersville Social in New York. Hosted by the Indiana Society, the weekend welcomed Dames, spouses, and friends from Indiana and Illinois for a luncheon at Say’s Restaurant, a tour of the Working Men’s Institute. This was followed by an engaging orientation to New Harmony’s utopian history at the Atheneum Visitors Center. Guests explored the Indiana Dames’ David Lenz House (1819–1822), once part of the Rappite settlement, followed by a trolley tour, cocktail hour, and dinner at the Red Geranium. A moonlit tour capped the evening with visits to the Roofless Church, Cathedral Labyrinth, and more. Guests received keepsake bags with Lenz House and garden-themed gifts. With more than thirty participants and glowing reviews, plans are already in motion for a spring 2027 encore to welcome Dames from Illinois, Kentucky, Ohio and beyond!
7/9/25
The Pamlico Town Committee’s Summer Social and lunch proved, in every sense, a success with about 80 Dames and guests in attendance. At the beautifully restored Coral Bay Club, guests were treated to a wonderful presentation by Hunter Ingram, Assistant Director of the Burgwin-Wright Museum House in Wilmington—which also serves as the NC Society organizational headquarters.
Ingram’s work represents a growing trend in public history, where traditional academic research is made accessible through popular formats such as podcasting. His NSCDA Lamar Award-winning podcast initiative examines the historical connections between the utterly addictive, television adaptation of Diana Gabaldon’s Outlander series and the storied Cape Fear region of North Carolina.
Quite, so: this Social is precisely why we adore our Dames gatherings—where else does one discover such contemporary cultural connections that leverage history and education over lunch in great company!
Dames gathered to enjoy a delicious lunch on the patio of the legendary Onteora Club in Tannersville, NY. Once again Holly Hunt orchestrated the most lovely summer gathering for generations of Dames who retreat to the Catskills over the summer.
Close to Boston, Philadelphia, Hartford and New York City, next year promises the pleasure of a home garden visit in addition to the luncheon. For those who might be enticed to join us for the day or overnight, mah jong and bridge can be on offered if there is sufficient interest. Stay tuned for more Dames Social details about next year’s joyous whirligig of summer fun on spectacular grounds!
7/22/25
If the luncheon guests at Highlands/Cashiers were remembering their past Socials fondly, then this year the guests went for an even more elevated wow factor! What better way to celebrate a gathering than with genuine smiles and the friendly exchanges of Dames from across the country.
Nearly 90 Dames gathered—a mix of familiar faces from previous years and exciting newcomers from the Oklahoma, Louisiana, Florida, Arkansas, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Alabama Societies. Several Dames commented that they will encourage their daughters and granddaughters to become Dames so that they can enjoy all of the fun, too!
Candy Ainsworth and the Wildcat Dames orchestrated the event flawlessly, creating an atmosphere so inviting that attendees spontaneously exchanged contact information and made plans for future gatherings beyond this luncheon. The prevailing sentiment was pure joy at simply being together.
7/23/25
7/25/25
Carefree summer living is pretty hard to beat, but it’s all that much sweeter when you have a lakeside Dames Social to go with it! The weather held magnificently—not a drop of rain in sight. The lake, meanwhile, maintained its serene indifference to the casual social choreography on the Chicago Yacht Club patio. Friendship was very much the vibe at this delightful open-air occasion, where about 50 Dames and guests enjoyed a gourmet lunch and easy conversation. The afternoon ended as such afternoons do, with promises to meet again soon and an invitation extended to every Dame from around the country to join the Illinois Society for next year’s Social.
Caroline Chester and Susan Snow from Beersheba Springs, Tennessee, were pleased to receive Dames from the Nashville and Chattanooga Town Committees, together with those living in Sewanee and Monteagle.
They took “rustic, refined” to a whole new level in this picturesque Tennessee highland setting! The luncheon was everything one could wish for—a combination of breathtaking vistas from the Cumberland Plateau, warm hospitality, and awfully good company.
7/31/25
Greeted by a profusion of daisies and hydrangeas blooming in the front yard, followed by a warm welcome inside, the Dames from Montreat and Asheville—representing seven Corporate Societies—were excited to be together again for their fifth Summer Social. Judy Gregory’s home was filled with animated conversation, infectious laughter and the pure joy of being together for a morning gathering. Lovely refreshments appeared as if by magic on the dining room table, each offering provided by thoughtful guests.
Susan Walker brought the group up to speed on the remarkable success of Dames Socials nationwide and provided an exciting update on the $2 million campaign’s progress and significance. Frances Smyth, President of the North Carolina Society, shared insights about the NSCDA’s vital mission. Encouraging membership growth, a warm invitation was extended to out-of-state attendees to join as Courtesy members of the North Carolina Society. After a wonderful morning together, “Let’s meet again next summer!” was heard throughout the house.
8/4/25
Brava to Fay Kirby and Brenda Nardi for striking a brilliant balance at the Idaho Dames Social. Historical discovery and summer banter proved the perfect pairing against dramatic mountain vistas. Nine Dames from six Corporate Societies—California, Colorado, Michigan, New York, Oregon, and Texas—spent time exploring the Ore Wagon Museum and Bonning Cabin before enjoying a genial lunch at The Sun Valley Lodge.
Much to everyone’s delight, hostesses Fay Kirby and Brenda Nardi presented party favors including Tiffany blue Dames napkins, copies of The Indigo Girl novel, and ornaments from the Dumbarton House store. The guests were thrilled to learn that 24 Dames live or vacation in the area. Everyone eagerly anticipates the next outstanding Social!
8/12/25
Eleven Colonial Dames descended on Traverse City Country Club for what turned out to be one of those unexpectedly perfect afternoons. Even with the Michigan rain doing its thing outside, the verdant fairways provided a stunning backdrop through the club’s picture windows.
The conversation was the real draw—stories spanning decades and life chapters shared over a delightful lunch. These Dames came from near and far, including from Frankfurt, Torch Lake, Petoskey and Harbor Springs. Lunch was excellent (as expected), but the real entertainment came from the patriotic quiz that wrapped things up. Four particularly sharp members cleaned house on American history trivia, proving that intellectual curiosity never goes out of style.
Sometimes the best gatherings happen when interesting people simply show up and let the conversation flow. This was definitely one of those times.
9/18/25
The Blue Ridge Committee of The National Society of Colonial Dames in the Commonwealth of Virginia had its second annual “Homecoming Party” to kick off the new season. This delightful Social was held at Harkaway Farm, the beautiful home of Liza Sackson, past president of the Virginia Society and Regent of Gunston Hall.
Nestled in the rolling hills of Albemarle County, it was quintessential Virginia at its most charming. The weather was perfect for the more than 65 members, guests, and prospective members who attended—some from as far away as the Richmond Committee and the Rappahannock Committee.
Our thanks to hostess Liza Sackson for her grace and generosity, and to Sunny Carr and Nell Tattersall for their impeccable liaising skills. To all who brought appetizers and desserts, you have our gratitude for the wonderful gourmet spread. Here’s hoping for another Dames Social in 2026!
ANNUAL APPEAL 2025-2026
NSCDA
Annual Appeal
Gifts support annual operating expenses of the NSCDA and Dumbarton House along with ongoing preservation and education initiatives.
DUMBARTON HOUSE Fund for the Future
Donors ensure the preservation of Dumbarton House for the benefit of generations to come. The 224-yearold house, with gardens and historic collections, is the only nationally owned NSCDA property.
TO LEARN MORE
Contact Us
Explore your giving opportunities by visiting nscda.org/support. Or contact NSCDA Director of Finance and Administration Edith Laurencin at EdithLaurencin@nscda.org or (202) 337-2288 Ext. 2221 to discuss giving strategies that are most meaningful and convenient for you.
Ways to Give
ONLINE
Scan for online giving or go to nscda.org/support.
����TELEPHONE
Call NSCDA Director of Finance and Administration Edith Laurencin at (202) 337-2288 Ext. 2221.
✉BY POST NSCDA
2715 Q Street NW Washington, DC 20007-3071
YGifts of appreciated stocks or securities are easy to make and provide great tax benefits.
XFiscal year ends August 31, 2026
Maximize your support and minimize taxes through IRA distributions, retirement plan assets or life insurance.
LEGACY CIRCLE
Leave a legacy of generosity with an estate gift that helps meet your financial and philanthropic goals.
The NSCDA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Tax ID: 53-0224364
