For more than four decades, the Swallow Cliff Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution has been a steadfast force in preserving history, promoting education, and fostering patriotism.
With 105 members and growing, this dedicated group of women actively engages in community service and historical preservation while honoring their ancestors who played a role in the American Revolution.
“Our chapter was founded on October 31, 1981, and like every NSDAR chapter, we focus on historic preservation, education, and patriotism,” said Gale Shafer, an honorary Chapter Regent who has served in numerous leadership roles. “We’re passionate about supporting veterans, recognizing outstanding young citizens, and keeping history alive.”
That passion for education takes center stage each February at the Swallow Cliff Chapter’s Youth Awards Program, where outstanding high school seniors are honored with the prestigious DAR Good Citizens Award. The recognition is given to students who exemplify dependability, leadership, service, and patriotism. These values align closely with NSDAR’s mission.
This year, seven area high schools each nominated one senior for the award. The nominees submitted letters of recommendation, a summary of their community service and achievements, and completed a timed essay on a given topic.
During the chapter’s February meeting, Illinois State DAR Good Citizens Award Chairman Lynn Gray gave a presentation about the award, while Swallow Cliff Chapter Good Citizens Award Chairman Malinda Clickner-Poczynok presented pins, monetary awards, and certificates to the winners.
Among the honorees was Ameera Zaied from Stagg High School, who was named valedictorian of her graduating class and has completed more than 100 hours of community service. Zaied was selected to advance to the DAR District IV competition.
Also recognized were Kaylah Forrest of Tinley Park High School, Lauren Gorman of Chicago Christian High School, Madison Grace Prim of Oak Forest High School, and Fatima Suhail of Argo Community High School. Patrick Corrigan of Shepard High School and Xalani Mitchell of Evergreen Park High School were unable to attend the ceremony but were honored as well.
“One of DAR’s main objectives is to support and recognize outstanding youth in our communities,” Gray said, emphasizing the organization’s dedication to fostering future leaders.
Swallow Cliff Chapter’s dedication to education extends beyond the Youth Awards Program. The chapter presents history programs in local schools, provides scholarships, and supports DAR-sponsored schools in underprivileged areas. Members also oversee the Knoll Springs Society, a branch of the Children of the American Revolution, instilling a sense of heritage and civic duty in younger generations.
That same dedication to service extends to supporting veterans and active-duty military personnel. The chapter contributes to Stand Down Chicago and the Manteno Veterans Home, assembles care packages through Project Patriot, and participates in Wreaths Across America and Honor Flights.
Historic preservation is another key pillar of the organization. Members have contributed to the Find-A-Grave project by documenting gravestones at Restvale Cemetery and regularly volunteer at local historical societies. Some also work on conservation initiatives with the Cook County Forest Preserve District, ensuring that natural and historical sites remain protected for future generations.
The group’s outreach efforts stretch into the community as well. A recent service project saw members donating food and assembling Grab-and-Go meals for families staying at the Oak Lawn Ronald McDonald House.
“This act of kindness exemplifies the chapter’s broader commitment to community service beyond historical preservation,” Shafer, of Orland Park, said.
For Shafer, joining the DAR was more than a commitment to history and service, it was a personal journey of discovery. She credits her aunt for igniting her passion for genealogy.
“My aunt retired from teaching and took to the roads to trace our family history before computers were even in use,” she said. “She traveled to New England, hand-copying U.S. census records and self-published a book for her closest relatives, which I was fortunate to receive.”
At the end of the book, her aunt included a Bible record listing significant dates and family members, including Abel Harding, a soldier in the militia during the Revolutionary War. The final statement in the book caught Shafer’s attention: “You know, we are DAR-qualified.”
Though her aunt never pursued membership, Shafer decided to do so years later after retiring from teaching.
“By then, computers had made research so much easier,” she said. “I could print out official records without ever leaving the country. My aunt would be amazed to know that I have now traced our family history back to the 1500s.”
After confirming her lineage, she sought out the nearest DAR chapter and found a welcoming home at Swallow Cliff.
“The atmosphere of support and camaraderie is something we work hard to maintain,” she said. “The only problem with proving one patriot is that you want to find more. I have proven six others, including some from branches in Virginia, and I know there are more—I just need to find the documentation.”
Shafer’s passion for genealogy and history has inspired multiple generations.
“I wanted to share my DAR connections and heritage with my immediate family,” she said. “I’m proud to say I’ve helped my daughter, and her three daughters become members as well.”
Beyond the programs and projects, members of Swallow Cliff Chapter find something even more valuable — friendship.
“Many of my closest friends are fellow DAR members,” Shafer said. “We support each other through phone calls, visits, and even transportation to meetings for those with mobility issues. It’s a true sisterhood.”
Longtime member and past Illinois State Regent Gloria Flathom echoed that sentiment.
“I wanted to join DAR since I was 16. I’m a history buff, and I’m proud of my family’s role in the Revolution,” Flathom said. “Swallow Cliff Chapter is deeply involved in our community, offering scholarships, preserving history, and promoting patriotism.”
Lynn Gray, another honorary Chapter Regent, emphasized the impact of their work. “The Daughters of the American Revolution is making a positive impact nationwide. I honor my ancestors by ensuring their sacrifices were not in vain,” she said.
With five prospective members currently completing their applications, the Swallow Cliff Chapter continues to grow and thrive.
“Any woman who can trace her lineage to a Revolutionary War patriot is welcome,” Shafer said. “If she’s looking for a place where history, service, and camaraderie come together, she’ll find it here.”
For more information about the Swallow Cliff Chapter and how to join, visit www.dar.org.
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