Organization: Sons of the American Revolution
Local Unit: Colonel James Wood II Chapter
Period: December 19, 2024 – Present
The Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) is a historical and patriotic organization for male descendants of those who supported the cause of American Independence. It is dedicated to three main pillars: Ancestry, Education, and Patriotism. Members work to preserve the stories of the men and women who founded our country while serving their local communities today.
Note for Women: If you share an interest in genealogy and history, our sister organization—the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR)—offers a similar path for women to honor their revolutionary ancestors through service, education, and historic preservation.
This page chronicles my personal path to membership and active service within the Colonel James Wood II Chapter. It follows my journey from:
- Genealogical Discovery: Moving through complex family records to prove lineage to my patriot ancestor, John Plumley, a recruiter in the Revolutionary War.
- Civic Engagement: Participating in local ceremonies, from “Wreaths Across America” to the reading of the Declaration of Independence at the Warren County Courthouse.
- Commemoration: Earning recognition during the US Semiquincentennial (250th Anniversary) through educational talks and honor guards.
What began as a search for my roots has evolved into a commitment to honoring those who served before us and inspiring the generations that follow.
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Today marks the official start of my journey to join the Virginia Sons of the American Revolution. By tracing my lineage back to James Sowder with professional help, I’m taking the first step toward honoring my family’s patriotic legacy. read more
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Attending Front Royal’s “Salute to Service” event was a moving way to spend Memorial Day. Beyond the ceremonies, I visited the SAR booth to check on my application progress, reminding me why preserving our family’s history of service matters. read more
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Genealogy is full of surprises! While my initial research into James Sowder hit a dead end, a professional breakthrough has led me to a new patriot ancestor: John Plumley. I’m thrilled to finally have a verified path to the SAR. read more
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It’s official! After months of research and verification, I have been approved as a member of the Colonel James Wood II Chapter. I am honored to join this historic lineage and begin my service with the SAR. read more
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Attending the Veterans Day ceremony in Middletown was a powerful experience, made even more special by seeing my new SAR chapter’s Color Guard in action. I’m already looking forward to my first meeting and choosing my colonial attire! read more
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Connecting with experienced members is key to getting involved. Today, I met Marc at The Cue to discuss everything from community involvement to choosing the right colonial attire, as I prepare for my official induction into the SAR. read more
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Gathered at Trinity Lutheran Church, we held a moving dedication ceremony for three Revolutionary War veterans. Though we remained at the church grounds, the spirit of the day was focused on ensuring these soldiers finally received their long-overdue recognition. read more
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Under a crisp December sky at Prospect Hill Cemetery, I joined the community for Wreaths Across America. Laying wreaths for our fallen heroes, including a special tribute to Mason William N. Wood, was a moving experience of dual service. read more
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I officially took my oath today as a member of the Colonel James Wood II Chapter. Sharing the story of my ancestor, John Plumley, made the ceremony deeply personal, a moment captured by a fellow Mason and SAR brother. read more
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SAR Colorguardsman: I participated with the Colonel James Wood II Chapter in Wreaths Across America ceremonies, helping place wreaths on veterans’ graves at Prospect Hill Cemetery in Front Royal while honoring service members through musket salutes and Taps as part of a statewide remembrance effort. read more
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A deep dive into my family history packet revealed more than names—it uncovered a generations-long battle with heart disease. From ancestral “Cardiorenal Syndrome” to my own modern pacemaker, I’ve discovered that the heart is the true thread of my legacy. read more
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On the courthouse grounds, we honored Dr. Joseph Warren—not just as a Revolutionary hero, but as a towering figure in Masonic history. As a Grand Master who gave his life for liberty, he has left a legacy that bridges my work in both the SAR and the Craft. read more
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Participating in the public reading of the Declaration of Independence was a highlight of my year. As the bell tolled for each grievance, I had the honor of reading the charges against the King regarding government overreach and military tyranny. read more
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While volunteering at the historic Burwell-Morgan Mill, I encountered the surveying term “At Adventure’s Start.” Recognizing the symbol from my Masonic education, I was struck by the brilliant parallel between mapping the wilderness and the start of a personal journey. read more
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To better serve our community and the next generation, I’ve completed the SAR University Youth Protection Training. This certification allows me to safely lead and support youth-focused events, starting with this year’s Wreaths Across America and our local Scouts. read more
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I was proud to make my debut in the SAR Color Guard during Wreaths Across America. Despite the biting wind and cold, I bore the chapter flag and laid a wreath in honor of our fallen heroes. read more
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Awarded by the Sons of the American Revolution for active participation in the 250th Anniversary commemoration program. Earned through consistent attendance at historical lectures, Color Guard service, and public outreach, demonstrating a commitment to preserving and promoting Revolutionary War history. read more
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Stepping into Revolutionary attire for a library skit, I found myself balancing historical accuracy, missed lines, and unexpected humor. Not quite reenactment, not quite theater—just a moment where community, history, and imperfection came together in a surprisingly memorable way. read more
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What started as a simple visit turned into stepping in as a minuteman, marching with the SAR, writing with a quill, and helping manage a musket volley. Along the way, one small gesture—a free commemorative coin—stood out. read more
