Dr. Joseph Johnson DAR Chapter Launches in Montgomery

Montgomery, Texas officially welcomed a new chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) on May 18, 2024, with the establishment of the Dr. Joseph Johnson Chapter. This new local group, formed in Montgomery County, aims to uphold the DAR’s core missions of historic preservation, education, and patriotism within the community.

The chapter held its official organizational meeting, marking a significant addition to the area’s civic and historical organizations. It takes its name from Dr. Joseph Johnson, a distinguished Revolutionary War patriot and physician from South Carolina. Dr. Johnson served as a surgeon’s mate with the 1st South Carolina Regiment, playing a vital role in critical engagements such as the Siege of Savannah and the Battle of Eutaw Springs before his passing in 1827. His legacy of service and dedication to liberty will inspire the chapter’s work.

“We are incredibly proud to establish the Dr. Joseph Johnson Chapter here in Montgomery, a community rich in Texas history,” said Patricia B. Kelly, who will serve as the chapter’s founding Regent. “Our 14 founding members are united by a passion for preserving our nation’s heritage, supporting our veterans, and fostering a deeper understanding of civics among our youth. We look forward to becoming an active and engaged part of Montgomery County.”

The new chapter’s initiatives will focus specifically on local endeavors, including supporting veterans’ causes, advancing civics education in schools and the community, and working to preserve historical sites and markers throughout the Montgomery area.

Alongside Regent Kelly, the executive board includes Melissa O’Leary as Vice Regent, Ann Cangelosi as Secretary, Katherine Van Den Heuvel as Treasurer, Jennifer White as Registrar, Judy Hinojosa as Chaplain, Amy Jones as Historian, Stephanie Johnson as Librarian, and Carolyn Miller as Parliamentarian.

The Dr. Joseph Johnson Chapter plans to hold its next meeting on Saturday, June 22, at the Montgomery County Central Library. Prospective members or individuals interested in learning more about the chapter’s activities are encouraged to attend or visit the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution website at www.dar.org for more information on membership requirements.

The DAR, founded in 1890, is a non-profit, non-political volunteer women’s service organization dedicated to promoting historic preservation, education, and patriotism. Its members are direct descendants of patriots of the American Revolution. The formation of the Dr. Joseph Johnson Chapter signifies a renewed commitment to these ideals in Montgomery County.