Alleghany Chapter, NSDAR was organized in 1911 by a group of women seeking to perpetuate the memory and spirit of the men and women who achieved American independence. More than a century after the chapter’s organization, our members continue to be very proud of their own patriot ancestors and proud as well of the brave, hard-working families who settled this frontier in the mid-1700s. They fought for their homes and lives during the “French and Indian” war and again during the colonial struggle against Great Britain. Many of the men from this area signed the Fincastle Resolutions which were one of the forerunners of the Declaration of Independence. Some men from our area were part of the “Over-Mountain Men” who defeated the British at the Battle of King’s Mountain. Others fought at the Battles of Cowpens and Guilford Courthouse in North Carolina. Through all this, and through conflict with indigenous peoples, the women remained strong at home, managing things until their absent menfolk returned.

Spring at Historic Smithfield

We are especially proud that Virginia State DAR has recently named Historic Smithfield, located in our hometown, as a Shrine of American History. Colonel William Preston, who built Smithfield in 1774 and named it for his wife, Susanna Smith, was an immigrant of Scots-Irish ancestry who rose from near poverty to wealth and influence through his own industry and intelligence. He was a surveyor and land-owner in the pattern of George Washington (who was an acquaintance). He corresponded with many whose names are found in the annals of American history and his 11 surviving children married into the families of the rich and powerful. Sadly, Col. Preston died in 1783, just as the new country he fought for was getting itself organized.