I have been reading the posts about the DAR and other organizations and thought I might put my 2 cents worth in. Back in the 1970's I was involved in my own local Gen Soc and also the DAR chapter in my ILL community. I have 5 pins and could apply for 3 more if I chose to. I am and always will be proud of my family. However I became disillusioned with the DAR because of certain elitist and exclusionary attitudes. It was easier back then to join because it was also easier to prove descendancy . They tightened up the rules and requirements because certain people were falsifying their proof of ancestry. So now you have to duplicate the work to show proof and this is a good thing. Just like in every other area of life there will be those who use unscrupulous methods to obtain what they want. I had later been asked to join the First Planters of VA .A more elitist group if thats possible. This is $300.00 to apply .You do not get it back whether accepted or not. I guess what I am trying to say is that I know who I am and I know where I came from. I don't need a pin nor piece of paper to tell me that. And then set me above others who also descend from our wonderful ancestors that fought for our nation and liberty.We fought to liberate this country from the Elitists . So I decided not to be an active member in the late 80's. There is more I would like to say but not on the list. If someone is interested they may write me privately.I personally think groups like the Lions and etc who do good works for the community are far more worthy of my time and effort.But this is only my opinion and in no way should be taken out of context. Pat