Main content

America's Fan Club

Emma Barnett explores the growing support for the Daughters of the American Revolution, a women-only club that puts patriotism at the heart.

You have to be a direct descendent of a veteran of the War of Independence to join The Daughters of the American Revolution. Set up 125 years ago when its brother organisation refused to accept women, it now far eclipses the Sons of the American Revolution. It was once the watchword for white, exclusive privilege and is famous for refusing to allow a black singer to perform, but now it's membership is growing and it proudly boasts women of all backgrounds and colour. Its aims have changed little in its history: patriotism, education and the preservation of historic buildings. Emma Barnett joins four thousand of its members at its annual Congress in Washington to find out why women are choosing to join, and how they are interpreting the organisation's aims in the 21st century.
Producer: Katy Hickman.

Available now

28 minutes

Last on

Fri 31 Jul 2015 11:00

Emma Barnett with the President General Lynn Young

Emma Barnett with the President General Lynn Young

The President General and her personal pages

The President General and her personal pages

Constitution Hall, Washington D.C.

Constitution Hall, Washington D.C.

DAR badges and awards

DAR badges and awards

Emma Barnett with the State Regent of Texas, Pamela Wright and her daughter-in-law Allie Dunklin

Emma Barnett with the State Regent of Texas, Pamela Wright and her daughter-in-law Allie Dunklin

Broadcast

  • Fri 31 Jul 2015 11:00

Featured in...

Seriously...

Seriously...

Discover more seriously interesting radio documentaries.