Colonel George Dashiell Chapter hosts book reviewer

L - R: Shirley Bland, Past Regent, Col.Geo. Dashiell Chapter; Suzanne Fife, Sarah Maples Chapter; Geneice Morris, program presenter, Sarah Maples Chapter; Neva Jo Brooks, Past Regent, Col. Geo. Dashiell Chapter. Contributed photo DAR members enjoyed a book review at their October 16 meeting in Centerville’s Courthouse Annex #1. Ms Geneice Morris presented a slide show along with the book review of “God in America”, written by Newt Gingrich. Her presentation emphasized how much of our country’s founding documents, our national government buildings, and our individual states official documents include references and/or images of the people’s belief in God. Her slides illustrated the beautiful buildings in Washington D.C. which have carved inscriptions referring to the Creator and sculpted friezes with Biblical characters as the focus. The book connects the decline of this expression of belief to the decline of moral behavior in this country. Ms Morris is a Past Regent of Sarah Maples Chapter in Mabank, and was accompanied by another of her chapter’s Past Regents, Ms Suzanne Fife.

Preceding the program, the members held a business meeting. Regent Mae Bruce reported that the members had the honor to present a print of the painting “Prayer at Valley Forge” to Grimes County Courthouse. This chapter was assisted by members of Robert Raines Chapter located in Navasota.. Grimes County Judge Betty Shiflett had assisted with the plans for this ceremony.

Conservation Chairman Wanda Cooper gave information regarding planting of wildflowers at this time. There are many varieties which should be planted as this cool weather moves into our area. Cooper is always able to find useful information for members’ use.

DAR Schools chairman presented encouraging information about Kate Duncan Smith School, which was founded in 1924 by NSDAR. It is located in Grant AL, and is K-12 with over 1200 students.

At least three chapter members will be participating in a ceremony dedicating the new State Historical Marker for Polytechnic Cemetery in Fort Worth on October 21. Members Anne Spellings and Mae Bruce have ancestors buried in this one hundred year old cemetery.

DAR members always enjoy celebrating commemorative dates, and the October dates were found to be October 13, 1792, the cornerstone of the White House was laid; October 19, 1781, the British troops surrendered at Yorktown; and October 20, 1803 the Senate ratified the Louisiana Purchase Treaty. All three of these were important events for our country to recognize and remember (respect our heritage).

The chapter’s next meeting will be December 3, in the Bruce home at Hilltop Lakes. Susan Lemon, TSDAR Division IV Chairman will be guest speaker. In addition, members will honor the 250th anniversary of Wedgewood by having a display of Wedgewood pieces owned by members.