A SHORT HISTORY OF THE
SALLIE HARRISON CHAPTER, NSDAR

The Sallie Harrison Chapter was organized in Sanford on November 15, 1918 and was the thirteenth chapter in Florida. Organizing Regent Elizabeth Harrison Starling was a granddaughter of Revolutionary War patriot Edward Harrison of Georgia. The twenty-six charter members voted to name the chapter after Mrs. Starling’s aunt, Sallie Harrison Tuggle, the oldest daughter of the patriot.

Historic Preservation: In 1941, friends of the late General Henry S. Sanford, on behalf of his daughter Carola Sanford Dow, approached the Chapter. Mrs. Dow wished to present her father’s valuable papers, historical documents and portraits to the city he founded. In order to build a replica of General Sanford’s library, the Chapter raised funds by hosting Silver Teas, antique shows, bridge parties, and garage and rummage sales. The City of Sanford, interested citizens, the Women’s Club and several local banks assisted with this project. In 1956 the Sallie Harrison Chapter saw its dream come true when the Sanford Museum opened at Fort Mellon Park.
 

Education: Historically, the chapter has always been committed to our youth. From it’s beginning, members have helped support the DAR schools by providing funds, clothing and supplies. Over the years the Chapter has sponsored three Children of the American Revolution societies. The Fort Mellon Society C.A.R. was founded in 1944. It has become an award winning children’s organization.

In early promotions of patriotism, the Chapter handed out Flag code brochures and copies of the United States Constitution to local schools. More recently funds were raised to provide every classroom in Seminole County with an official United States Flag. Each year the Chapter contacts public and private schools in the county about the DAR American History and Good Citizens essay contests and hosts an awards program to honor the winners. Another annual activity is to present DAR medals and certificates to the top JROTC high school students in Seminole County. Constitution Week is celebrated annually with a patriotic display in a local school.

Patriotism: Since the chapter was formed when the country was involved in World War I, the Daughters showed their support and generosity by contributing to an aspirin fund, buying war bonds, and later knitting and rolling bandages. They have joined the American Red Cross and the USO. Members have continued their devotion to the military and those who have served during wars and peacetime. Fund donations and items requested are sent to support soldiers. Most recently the Chapter purchased telephone calling cards for active military serving overseas.

The Chapter has not forgotten our Veterans. Daughters financed the building of a clubhouse in Sanford for veterans. Members continually collect and deliver items to the local veterans nursing home and has also shown great support for the Paws for Patriots project, which provides guide dogs for soldiers returning from war with permanent loss of vision.

The Sallie Harrison Chapter has shown its support within the community and has participated in local parades and patriotic programs. Members have welcomed hundreds of new citizens by assisting with U.S. Naturalization Ceremonies.

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