Chapter History
Our chapter was named for General William Richardson Davie (1756-1820), an American Revolutionary War soldier who answered the call of this country, first as a soldier who fought in the Carolinas and then as a North Carolina militia officer as well as a Continental Army officer. When he entered political life in the new United States of America, he left his mark as the father of the first public university in this country, the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill.
It was fitting that the General Davie Chapter, NSDAR, chose to honor General Davie. Since its beginning, the chapter has tried to follow in his footsteps by devoting time and talents to patriotism, historical work, and education.
The General Davie Chapter, NSDAR, was chartered on October 13, 1911, and our chapter has been serving our community, state, and the nation ever since. The organizing chapter regent was Lizzie Morehead Wily, and there were twenty-two charter members.
The chapter worked on the home front during both World Wars, donated U.S. flags to local schools, and was the primary organizer of a Red Cross chapter in Durham.
Before historical societies were formed in our community, our chapter erected local historical markers, participated in honoring the founder of Durham, and assembled many collections of genealogical value.
Chapter members studied the U.S. Constitution when women won the right to vote. The chapter also became involved in promoting education by encouraging local students to compete in essay contests, honoring outstanding local students with awards and scholarships through the DAR Good Citizens Award and Scholarship Contest and General Davie Chapter, NSDAR, scholarships, and providing financial support to the DAR school and four other DAR-approved schools.
Since 1911, our members have been actively raising awareness of the importance of the founding of our nation and those who fought for our freedom. The enthusiasm of our chapter members is as indicative of our love of country as that of the charter members back in 1911. In their spirit, we continue their work and the work of the National Society as we enjoy the friendships of the Daughters in our chapter, district, and state.