George Washington Chapter, Virginia SAR

02/22/2026

Honored SAR wreath‑laying ceremony at George Washington's Mount Vernon at Washington’s Tomb today, commemorating the 294th anniversary of George Washington’s birth. A privilege to honor the legacy of our nation’s founding leader.

02/18/2026

The George Washington Chapter, Virginia SAR, is honored to receive the inaugural Semiquincentennial Chairman’s Award from the George Washington Birthday Celebration Committee.

This new Grand Prize recognizes the best overall entry in the 2026 George Washington Birthday Parade, and our chapter is proud to have been selected for this distinction.

A meaningful moment for the George Washington Chapter, Virginia SAR, as we take part in the Semiquincentennial celebrations now underway.
Onward, compatriots — the 250th anniversary is here!

02/16/2026

Solemn event attended by more than 100 compatriots, daughters, children and guests to honor the unknown soldiers of the American Revolution at ceremonies held at the Old Presbyterian Meeting House burial ground on Saturday, February 14, 2026.

02/16/2026

Honoring the Unknown: Virginia SAR, Virginia DAR, and C.A.R. Gather in Alexandria for the February 14 Commemoration

Alexandria, Virginia — On Saturday, February 14, more than one hundred compatriots, daughters, children, and guests gathered at the historic Old Presbyterian Meeting House burial ground to honor the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier of the American Revolution. Hosted jointly by the George Washington Chapter, Virginia SAR, and the Kate Waller Barrett Chapter, NSDAR, the ceremony unfolded on a bright afternoon where sunshine glinted off patches of melting snow, creating a serene and reverent setting for remembrance.

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier of the American Revolution stands as a solemn tribute to the unnamed patriot whose sacrifice represents the countless men and women who fought for American independence. This year’s commemoration brought together national, state, and local leaders from SAR, DAR, and C.A.R., reaffirming a shared commitment to honoring Revolutionary War patriots.

Opening of the Ceremony
The program began with a warm welcome from Scot A. Bryant, President of the George Washington Chapter, Virginia SAR. His remarks set the tone for a ceremony grounded in gratitude, unity, and historical reflection.

Susan Hayward‑Costa, Chaplain of the Kate Waller Barrett Chapter NSDAR, offered the opening prayer, inviting attendees to reflect on the courage and sacrifice of the unknown patriot and all who served during the American Revolution.

Greetings from National and State Leaders
This year’s commemoration was distinguished by the presence of leaders from both national societies:

🔷President General Michael J. Elston, Esq., National Society Sons of the American Revolution

♦️President General Ginnie Sebastian Storage, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution

They were joined by state leaders:

⭐Virginia SAR President Darrin Schmidt

⭐Virginia DAR President Kathleen Mayer Rugh

Each brought greetings that emphasized remembrance, service, and the enduring mission of America’s hereditary patriotic societies.

Presentation of Colors and Pledge
The Virginia SAR Color Guard presented the colors with precision and dignity, adding ceremonial weight to the proceedings.

Emily Hopkins, Treasurer of the Virginia Society Children of the American Revolution, led the assembly in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America, symbolizing the intergenerational commitment to patriotism and historical memory.

Wreaths Presented in Honor and Remembrance
Representatives from SAR, DAR, and C.A.R. chapters stepped forward to present wreaths at the Tomb, each one a tribute to the unknown patriot and all who served.

Daughters of the American Revolution
Wreaths were presented by:

National Society Daughters of the American Revolution
Virginia DAR
Virginia DAR District V
Kate Waller Barrett Chapter NSDAR
Prince William Resolves Chapter NSDAR
Fairfax County Chapter NSDAR
Anna Maria Fitzhugh Chapter NSDAR
Bill of Rights Chapter NSDAR
John Alexander Chapter NSDAR
Nelly Custis Chapter NSDAR
Pentagon Chapter NSDAR
Thomas Lee Chapter NSDAR

Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) | SAR wreaths were presented by:

🔹George Washington Chapter (host)
🔹Fairfax Resolves Chapter, Virginia Society, Sons of the American Revolution
🔹Sgt Maj John Champe Chapter-Sons of the American Revolution
🔹George Mason Chapter
🔹Colonel William Grayson Chapter, SAR
🔹SAR Colonel James Wood II Chapter
🔹 Minutemen Chapter SAR

Children of the American Revolution | C.A.R. wreaths were presented by:

🔸Virginia Society C.A.R.
🔸Col. William Grayson Society C.A.R.

Flowers Placed at the Tomb
A particularly moving moment came when flowers were placed at the Tomb by historical interpreters representing:

General George Washington (Brian Hilton)

First Lady Martha Washington (Constance Shofi)

His Excellency, the Marquis de Lafayette (Mark Schneider)

They were joined by SAR President General Elston and DAR President General Storage, followed by many of the more than 100 guests in attendance. The quiet procession of individuals placing flowers created a powerful visual tribute to the unknown patriot.

Closing of the Ceremony
The ceremony’s closing was led by Margaret Kate, Regent of the Kate Waller Barrett Chapter NSDAR, followed by the benediction delivered by Rev. Tom Costa, portraying Rev. James Muir, the minister of George Washington’s era. Rev. Costa also led the Recitation of the Tomb Inscription, a solemn reminder of the patriot whose identity is lost but whose sacrifice endures.

To conclude the ceremony, Donald C. Dahmann, Historian of the Old Presbyterian Meeting House, conducted the Tolling of the OPMH Bell, a tradition that resonates deeply across the burial ground and symbolizes the enduring memory of the Unknown Soldier.

Tours and Fellowship
Following the ceremony, attendees were invited to participate in guided tours of the Burial Ground and the Old Presbyterian Meeting House, which continued until 3:00 PM. Guests explored the historic grounds, learned about Alexandria’s Revolutionary‑era history, and shared fellowship with compatriots, daughters, and friends.

https://www.youtube.com//shorts

02/15/2026

Thousands of spectators lined the streets of Old Town Alexandria on Saturday, February 14, for the annual George Washington Birthday Celebration Parade—the nation’s oldest and largest celebrations honoring the Commander‑in‑Chief of the American Revolution.

The George Washington Chapter, Virginia SAR, proudly served as a Gold Sponsor of this year’s parade and led a strong contingent of compatriots in both colonial attire and business dress through the historic streets and past the reviewing stand. Their presence highlighted our ongoing commitment to honoring the legacy of General Washington and the patriots who secured our independence.

This year’s parade was especially notable with Michael Elston, President General, National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution, and Ginnie Sebastian Storage, President General, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, serving as Grand Marshals—an inspiring reminder of the shared mission of our patriotic societies.

A warm thank‑you to all compatriots, families, and supporters who joined us for this vibrant community celebration. The spirit of Washington’s birthday remains alive and well in Alexandria.

https://youtube.com/shorts/gpcoTvrX3Ps

https://youtube.com/shorts/tGF5CiLOuhM

Grand marshals of the 2026 George Washington Birthday Parade — President General Michael Elston and Ginnie Se...

02/15/2026

Yesterday our chapter was honored to host a solemn and meaningful commemoration at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier of the American Revolution at the Old Presbyterian Meeting House burial ground. Together with the Kate Waller Barrett Chapter, NSDAR, we paid tribute to the unnamed patriots whose sacrifice helped secure our nation’s independence.

Thank you to more than 💯 compatriots, daughters, guests, and color guard members who joined us in remembrance. Your presence helped ensure that these heroes—though unknown—are never forgotten.

Virginia SAR Color Guard professional at the Commemoration of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier of the American Revolution honored by SAR, DAR and C.A.R. membe...

02/13/2026

On behalf of one of our newest members - Pastor Daniel Cenci - has extended an invitation to our membership for the Pohick Church's George Washington Birthday Breakfast.

Visit https://pohick.org/events/george-washington-birthday/2026-02-16 to learn more.

Help us kick off America's 250th Birthday and join us for a special service honoring George Washington's birthday including morning prayer from The Book of Common Prayer, 1662, as well as Organ voluntaries, congregational Patriotic Hymns & Canticles. Following the service there will be a...

01/26/2026

GW Chapter on the Road!
Four of our members proudly represented the George Washington Chapter at the SAR Colonel James Wood II Chapter’s commemoration of Brig. Gen. Peter Muhlenberg in Wi******er on January 24, 2026.
Held at the historic The George Washington Hotel, the event was a meaningful part of the 250th Anniversary of the American Revolution — and judging by the photo, our contingent brought both patriotism and good cheer.

Members present (photo, left to right):
🔹Thomas Roth (Chapter & Virginia SAR Historian);
🔸Paul McComb (Chapter Chaplain & Assistant Chaplain, Virginia SAR);
🔹Michael Elston (National SAR President General);
🔸 Scot Bryant (Chapter President).
(Photo courtesy of Debbie McComb.)

Who was Peter Muhlenberg?

Muhlenberg began his Virginia service as an ordained Anglican pastor leading a Lutheran congregation in Woodstock. Beyond the pulpit, he chaired the Committee of Safety and Correspondence for Dunmore County, served in the House of Burgesses in 1774, and was a delegate to the First Virginia Convention.
In late 1775, George Washington personally asked him to raise and command the 8th Virginia Regiment — a request he accepted despite strong objections from his brother, Frederick Augustus.

(Frederick changed his mind only after the British burned down his church. Nothing motivates quite like that.)

According to a mid‑19th‑century family biography, Muhlenberg’s defining moment came on January 21, 1776, when he preached from Ecclesiastes 3 — “To everything there is a season…” — and upon reaching “a time of war, and a time of peace,” declared, “And this is the time of war.”

He removed his clerical robe to reveal his Continental Army uniform as drums rolled outside. Men kissed their wives, walked down the aisle, and enlisted — 162 in just thirty minutes. The next day, he marched from Woodstock with 300 volunteers, forming the nucleus of the 8th Virginia Regiment.

As we mark America’s 250th, honoring leaders like Muhlenberg reminds us of the courage, conviction, and community that shaped our nation — and that still brings SAR members together with a smile.

01/23/2026

Compatriots of the mighty George Washington Chapter — yes, the largest in Virginia (we checked, twice) — it has come to our attention that some of you have heroically procrastinated on registering for the 2026 Annual Meeting.

And while we admire your commitment to living dangerously, we must inform you that today is the FINAL day to secure the group discount rate at the host hotel.
That’s right.
The deadline is not “approaching.”
It’s not “coming soon.”
It is here, staring at us like Washington crossing the Delaware, wondering why half the chapter hasn’t booked a room yet.
So let’s do what the largest chapter does best:
Show up.
Show out.
And show the rest of the Commonwealth how registration is supposed to be done.

Get ready for a memorable experience at the 2026 Virginia SAR Annual Meeting! The Richmond and Colonel William Grayson Chapters are excited to welcome members of the Sons of the American Revolution and their guests for our 136th return gathering to the picturesque Virginia Crossings Hotel and Confer...

01/23/2026

🎉 The George Washington Chapter, Virginia SAR, is ready to celebrate Alexandria’s favorite tradition in style! 🇺🇸
We’re honored to have both the SAR and DAR Presidents General leading the parade as Grand Marshals this year — a fitting tribute to the legacy of General Washington and the patriotic service organizations that carry his ideals forward.
Looking forward to seeing our friends, neighbors, and fellow history lovers along the parade route. It’s going to be a spectacular day in the city George Washington called home! 🎖️✨

GET READY! Are you Registered?? Made your plans?? Alexandria hosts the nation's oldest and largest George Washington Birthday Parade, a major event with bands, floats, historical groups, and dignitaries, typically held on Presidents' Day weekend in February, celebrating Washington as America's Founding Father, with details for the 2026 event already set for Saturday, February 14, in Old Town. The parade features a marching route through historic streets, drawing huge crowds for the patriotic spectacle honoring Washington.
Key Details for the 2026 Parade
Date: Saturday, February 14, 2026.
Time: 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM.
Theme: "Virginia's Son ~ America's Founding Father," marking the nation's 250th Anniversary.
Location: Old Town Alexandria, along King Street and surrounding areas.
What to Expect
Participants: Over 1,200 participants, including drum corps, color guards, military units, youth groups, and Masonic lodges.
Costumes: You'll see reenactors portraying George and Martha Washington, along with Revolutionary War soldiers.
Atmosphere: A large, patriotic, family-friendly event with candy, music, and community spirit.

Find a spot along the parade route in Old Town Alexandria to watch as it passes by.
For More Information
Visit the official George Washington Birthday Celebration Committee website https://washingtonbirthday.com/ for updates, parade rules, and registration details.

Pictured is Newzy, the Zebra mascot in last year’s parade with Zebra Publisher Mary Wadland.

01/19/2026

Many thanks to our chapter chaplain Paul McComb for the photos and details of this story commemorating the Battle of Cowpens.

Honoring the Battle of Cowpens in Berryville -- The SAR Colonel James Wood II Chapter hosted a powerful commemoration of the Battle of Cowpens this weekend, bringing together Color Guard members and compatriots from across the Virginia Society for training, ceremony, and remembrance.

From flintlock volleys to America 250 reflections, it was a meaningful tribute to one of the Southern Campaign’s most decisive victories.

https://www.virginiasar.org/index.php?option=com_dailyplanetblog&view=entry&year=2026&month=01&day=18&id=257:battle-of-cowpens-is-honored