08/13/2026
đź’ˇNEW Member Spotlightđź’ˇ
John Crawford Chapter DAR Keeps History, Service, and Patriotism Alive
For more than a century, the John Crawford Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) has connected local families with their history while serving communities throughout the area. Organized in 1918 through the efforts of Dr. Aileen Betteys Corbit, the chapter today has 37 members and continues a tradition built around historic preservation, education, service, and patriotism. "We are a very dynamic group," said Debbie Mick. "We have great ladies who are very dedicated to telling the story of DAR, historic preservation, education, and patriotism."
The chapter's work takes many forms. Members support veterans, teachers, students, local schools, libraries, and community organizations. They maintain seven little free libraries, participate in America 250 activities, partner with the Sons of the American Revolution, and work to preserve the memory of those who came before them.
Jennifer Kerry said one of the chapter's greatest strengths is that members can participate according to their interests and abilities. "We use everybody's talents," Kerry said. "We try to find what is everybody's niche."
Genealogy is another important part of the chapter's work. Members help prospective applicants research their family histories and determine whether they have an ancestor who supported the American cause during the Revolutionary War. The chapter's genealogist can work from basic information, such as grandparents' names and dates, to build family trees and help with the application process.
That work goes hand in hand with the chapter's commitment to remembering America's past. Members visit local cemeteries, clean grave sites and grave markers, and help ensure that Revolutionary War patriots and other ancestors are not forgotten. The chapter has a long history of preserving local landmarks, including a historic marker in Oxford commemorating the Territorial Road that went through Oxford, connecting Rochester and Lapeer.
Education is another major focus. The chapter presents DAR Good Citizen awards to area high school students and sponsors an annual essay competition focused on qualities such as dependability, service, leadership, and patriotism. Students can advance through state and national competitions, with scholarship opportunities along the way.
The chapter also honors its own history. Its founding member, Dr. Aileen Betteys Corbit, was one of three University of Michigan graduates in 1902 and served as the only doctor in town during World War I while many male physicians were away serving. The John Crawford Chapter recently contributed toward a memorial marker honoring her legacy.
For women interested in joining, there is no requirement to participate in everything. Members can contribute through genealogy, crafting, education, community service, historic preservation, veterans' activities, or other interests. The chapter meets primarily on the second Saturday of the month, alternating locations in Oxford and Almont.
Those interested in learning more about membership or genealogy can contact the chapter at [email protected].
John Crawford Chapter, NSDAR - Oxford/Almont Michigan
