Bells Across America and Constitution Week

Bells rang high and low as the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, Penn-Elk Chapter and Cameron County Chamber of Commerce marked the beginning of Constitution Week with a community bell ringing ceremony last Thursday.

Community members arrived with bells in hand as Penn-Elk Chapter Regent; Julie Pyle Childs gave a brief history of the NSDAR in Cameron County and shared details about the Bells Across America initiative, a nationwide event celebrated annually in observation of the signing of the U.S. Constitution on September 17, 1787. The event is held on the first day of Constitution Week annually and in unison across the United States. After singing the well known tune “America” with the first verse ending with the lyrics “let freedom ring” everyone rang bells for one full minute at 4:00 pm EST. The beautifully crafted and custom designed Cameron County Liberty Bell, part of the America250PA “Bells Across PA” public art exhibit served as the perfect back drop for the event this year. United States Marine Corp First Sergeant and Artist, Sarah Jane Daley gave an extraordinary and inspirational reading of the Preamble to the Constitution followed by a musical performance with Nancy Couchman playing the dulcimer and Rose Haas on the banjo. Also on display was the award winning Constitution Week poster designed by Grace Niemczyk from the Wellsboro Chapter, NSDAR. Membership from the Franklin County Chapter was also represented at the event.

The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), a volunteer women’s service organization that honors and preserves the legacy of our Patriot ancestors. Two hundred and fifty years ago, American Patriots fought and sacrificed for the freedoms we enjoy today. As a member of the DAR, you can continue this legacy by actively promoting patriotism and preserving American history. Any woman 18 years or older is eligible for membership, regardless of race, religion or ethnic background, who can prove lineal descent from a Patriot of the American Revolution is eligible for membership.

DAR volunteers are willing to provide guidance and assistance with your first step into the world of genealogy. DAR recognizes as Patriots not only soldiers, but also anyone who contributed to the cause of American freedom. A Patriot is defined as one who gave aid by way of food, arms, use of property; offered spiritual, medical, espionage or civil services as well as actual combatants. To find out more go to www.dar.org and click on “Membership.” There you’ll find helpful instructions, advice on finding your lineage and a Prospective Member Information Request Form.