What is the Sons of the American Revolution?

The SAR is a historical, educational, and patriotic non-profit, United States 501(c)3, corporation that seeks to maintain and extend the institutions of American freedom

• an appreciation for true patriotism
• a respect for our national symbols
• the value of American citizenship
• the unifying force of e pluribus unum that has created, from the people of many nations, one nation and one people.

We do this by perpetuating the stories of patriotism, courage, sacrifice, tragedy, and triumph of the men who achieved the independence of the American people in the belief that these stories are universal ones of man’s eternal struggle against tyranny, relevant to all time, and will inspire and strengthen each succeeding generation as it too is called upon to defend our freedoms on the battlefield and in our public institutions.

This Decade, the Sons of the American Revolution are particularly proud to celebrate the America250 anniversary of the creation of the United States of America!

This year we are celebrating the 250th Anniversary of the “Shot Heard Round the World” at Lexington and Concord

In 2026, we sill celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. 

Did you know that South Carolina has more Revolutionary War Battle and Skirmish sites than any other of the 13 colonies.

Who Can Join

The SAR is a “lineage” society. This means that each member has traced their family tree back to a point of having an ancestor who supported the cause of American Independence during the years 1774-1783. Support can include military service, government service, providing supplies to the military, taking an oath of allegiance to the cause, and many other possibilities. Basically anything that helped further the cause of freedom from the Crown. If you have relatives that have been in the DAR or SAR, then you are probably eligible to join. If you think you have a patriot ancestor or if you are not sure, you are more than welcome to visit. We can help you with your research.

How to Join

Download a blank application by clicking HERE. Provide as much information on your lineage going back to your patriot as possible. It’s not a big deal if you don’t know all of the dates and places. Assemble all of your documentation. You will need copies of birth, death, and marriage records for the first couple of generations. Bring what you have to one of our meetings, and the chapter genealogist will look it over and help you complete the application. Once the application is complete, it will be submitted for approval. Final approval can take anywhere from 2-6 months. If you have any questions, contact a chapter genealogist via contact form. 

Also, you can learn more at the South Carolina Society Membership page: https://scssar.org/membership/

SCSSAR has partnered with may South Carolina groups to highlight the America 250 Celebration. Please visit the sites below for even more events, activities and resources across our state!

SAR America 250

Celebrate the Decade of the American Revolution

This site helps the Sons of the American Revolution brand their patriot organization while promoting many elements of the American Revolution, beginning with the Stamp Act through the Treaty of Paris. We manage a variety of projects that include programs and educational presentations and resources that SAR members and educators can download and use..

SC250 Anniversary

American Revolution

There were more than 400 battles, skirmishes and events across South Carolina – including the war’s bloodiest battle. There are dozens of historical markers, museums and homes dedicated to the revolutionary-era. Come experience the landmarks, events and unforgettable stories you haven’t heard yet and learn why the Revolutionary War was won here.

America250

Years in the Making

On July 4, 2026, our nation will commemorate and celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The journey toward this historic milestone is an opportunity to pause and reflect on our nation’s past, honor the contributions of all Americans, and look ahead toward the future we want to create for the next generation and beyond.

DAR America 250

Celebrating 250 Years of America!

In July 2026, the United States will mark its 250th anniversary – and DAR is preparing to celebrate at the local and national level! Explore the ways the National Society and DAR chapters plan to leave a lasting impact through meaningful projects and events during this anniversary.