Joining the National Society Children of the American Revolution (N.S.C.A.R.) offers a variety of benefits for children and young adults, primarily focused on fostering patriotism, leadership, historical knowledge, and community service. Here are some key advantages:
Patriotism and Love of Country: The core mission of N.S.C.A.R. is to instill a love for the United States, its heritage, and the principles of American liberty. Through various activities and discussions, members learn about the sacrifices and ideals of those who fought for American independence.
Historical Knowledge and Preservation: Children gain a deeper understanding of American history, particularly the Revolutionary War era. They learn about the deeds and memories of their ancestors and others who contributed to the cause of independence. The society also emphasizes preserving and restoring historical sites.
Leadership Development: N.S.C.A.R. is designed to train good citizens and develop leaders. Members have opportunities to gain invaluable leadership experience by:
Conducting meetings and following parliamentary procedure.
Serving as delegates and officers at local, state, and national levels.
Practicing public speaking and presenting before groups.
Learning about the democratic process through selecting officers.
Community Service: The organization encourages members to be active in their local communities. This includes participating in projects such as:
Supporting active military personnel and veterans (e.g., fundraising for Fisher House Foundation, sending care packages).
Engaging in conservation efforts.
Helping libraries and museums.
Supporting educational programs.
Lifelong Friendships: Members connect with other young people who share similar interests and values, fostering friendships that can last into adulthood. They have opportunities to travel and meet peers at local, state, and national conferences.
Genealogy and Ancestry: A fundamental aspect of joining N.S.C.A.R. is tracing family lineage to an ancestor who provided military or civil service or material support during the American Revolution. This process helps children learn about their personal history and connection to the nation's founding.
Confidence and Skill Building: Through participation in various activities, contests, and leadership roles, children build confidence, develop useful skills like public speaking, and learn about etiquette and presentation.
Mentorship: N.S.C.A.R. receives leadership and financial support from the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) and the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR), providing a network of adult mentors who guide and support the youth members.
In essence, N.S.C.A.R. aims to mold young people into responsible, patriotic, and knowledgeable American citizens by connecting them with their historical roots and providing opportunities for personal growth and service.
Any young person under the age of twenty-two is eligible for membership in The National Society of the Children of the American Revolution. Members range in age from birth to age 21. The prospective member must be lineally descended from a man or woman who, with unfailing loyalty, rendered material aid to the cause of American Independence as a soldier, sailor, civil officer, or recognized patriot in one of the several Colonies or States, or of the United States. The prospective member also must be personally acceptable to the respective society.
Membership in C.A.R. provides a wonderful opportunity for children to participate in historical, educational, and patriotic activities. All children who can prove lineage to a patriot of the American Revolution are welcome. C.A.R. membership is a very special way of learning about family heritage and history. Children may join the National Society by invitation of a local society or as a member-at-large. Each child is a member of the National Society upon verification of the application. Applications must be completed and signed in accordance with the national bylaws. The Senior Society President sends the completed and signed application to the Senior National Treasurer with the application fee plus the annual national dues. If dues are paid in advance through age twenty-two, a member is considered a life member. If the local society is in the process of organizing or reorganizing, the signature of the Senior Organizing President or Senior Reorganizing President and applicant is required in addition to the endorsers.
Click here to be redirected to the National Society Children of the American Revolution website where you can download an application for membership and the guidelines for the application. There is also a downloadable application checklist to ensure that all items are included in your application package.
Do you need assistance proving your lineage to an American Revolution patriot? If so, contact Senior State Registrar, Sally Wooley at sallyaldar@gmail.com.