Bitter Root Chapter, NSDAR

02/01/2026

Join us in April for History Is the Key: Discovering Family Lineages and Uncovering Your Story, a special conference celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary.
📍 Doubletree–Edgewater Hotel, Missoula, MT
📅 April 25, 2026

11/10/2025

Saturday we enjoyed a marvelous presentation by our very own Nancy. Hostesses Janet and Susan had an amazing spread for us!

10/13/2025

Honoring Columbus Day 🇺🇸

Today we recognize Columbus Day, commemorating Christopher Columbus’s 1492 voyage — an achievement that forever changed the course of world history and set in motion the exploration and exchange that would eventually shape the United States.

While our understanding of history continues to deepen and evolve, Columbus’s courage, navigation, and determination remain remarkable. His voyage stands as one of the defining moments in the Age of Discovery, reminding us how curiosity and perseverance can alter the course of nations.

As Daughters of the American Revolution, we believe in studying history in its full context — celebrating exploration and progress while recognizing the diverse peoples and perspectives that together tell America’s story.

Photo: Christopher Columbus statue at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Great Falls, MT

10/13/2025

🌸 Honoring Indigenous Peoples’ Day 🌸

Today we honor and celebrate the rich history, traditions, and enduring presence of the Salish people—the original inhabitants of the Bitterroot Valley, whose deep connection to this land continues to shape Montana’s heritage.

The Bitterroot flower, or Spetlum in the Salish language, holds special meaning across many Montana tribes including the Salish, Flathead, Kootenai, and Shoshoni. Harvested in spring and dried for the winter months, the Bitterroot root provided essential nourishment and was valued both as food and for trade. It is said to support memory and clarity and was often prepared with berries or meats to balance its distinctive flavor.

Meriwether Lewis was introduced to this remarkable plant by the Salish people, later named the Lewisia rediviva, and now recognized as Montana’s state flower.

The tradition of gathering Bitterroot remains a cherished part of Salish culture today, linking generations through respect for the land and the wisdom of those who came before.

Photos show the Bitterroot flower in bloom and historical images of Salish and Flathead women harvesting Bitterroot in western Montana.

Photo Credits: University of Montana Mansfield Library, Office of Public Instruction. "Bitterroot Adaptations and Salish Traditions."

10/12/2025

Chapter member Peggy Annin, portraying Martha Washington, visited a middle school in Lolo to celebrate Constitution Day with students. Through stories, discussion, and hands-on learning, students gained a deeper appreciation for our nation’s founding and the enduring power of the U.S. Constitution.

Thank you, Peggy, for helping inspire the next generation of young patriots!

Photos provided by Victoria Emmons

10/12/2025

Members of the Bitter Root Chapter, NSDAR, joined other patriots at the Montana State Capitol in Helena to commemorate Constitution Day. The ceremony honored the signing of the U.S. Constitution and the vision of our Founding Fathers.

It was a wonderful day of fellowship and patriotism shared with fellow Daughters and guests, surrounded by history in our beautiful Capitol building.

10/12/2025

Members of the Bitter Root Chapter, NSDAR, were honored to take part in the 9/11 Memorial Ceremony at Rose Park held on Thursday, September 11. Representatives from across our community—including veterans, elected officials, Gold Star Mothers, and many local organizations—came together in remembrance of the lives lost and the heroes who served.

Special thanks to our chapter member Susan Campbell Reneau, who has organized this meaningful event for the past 24 years, ensuring Missoula never forgets.

Photos courtesy of Victoria Emmons 🇺🇸

01/28/2025

12/14/2024

Today many are joining Wreaths Across America to place a wreath on a fallen soldier’s headstone. Join in the celebration today at a veterans cemetery near you.

Wreaths Across America is an organization like no other. It touches everyone in the country on some level.Freedom isn't free - that is why we come together e...

12/01/2024

Happy birthday to all our wonderful members who have a November or December birthday.

11/10/2024

Monday, November 11, 2024 we celebrate those who have served with honor to protect the many freedoms we enjoy.

On Saturday the Bitter Root Chapter held a Veterans Day Luncheon where we celebrated those who have served and their families.

Thank you to our veterans and their families for their selfless sacrifice.

Thank you to the many volunteers who came to help.

10/17/2024

Are you a 4th or 5th-grade teacher interested in doing the NHD MT Poster Contest with your students? Apply by Nov 1 to receive extra support and training. Thank you to Montana 250 for the support.