The regular monthly meeting of the Benjamin Prescott Chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution was held at the YWCA in Westfield on Thursday, Nov. 5. There were 12 members present. Regent Brenda Johnson welcomed associate members Deborah Stauring and Mary Sherman. Johnson then conducted the opening ritual.

The President’s Message was then read by Barbara Pietro. As the year ends, the group celebrates several important national holidays. Election Day was Nov. 3, the centennial year of women’s suffrage, and members were urged to cast their votes.

Veterans Day was Nov. 11 and all were reminded to honor and thank our veterans. Thanksgiving Day is November 26, the day we reflect on our many blessings.

Elizabeth Sedlmayer then read from the DAR National Defense Article. Nov. 10 is the birthday of the United States Marine Corps. Continental Congress created the Continental Marines to aid naval forces in the Revolutionary War. The first recruitment drive was held in Philadelphia. The Continental Marines were responsible to conduct ship-to-ship fighting, provide ship security, enforce discipline, and assist in landing forces. Two battalions were established. After the Revolutionary War, the Continental Marines was abolished. On July 11, 1798, Congress recreated the Marine service, calling it the United States Marine Corps. Although it is the smallest of the military branches, it has a presence on Army posts, Navy stations, and Air Force bases.

Johnson mentioned the State Regent’s Project, the Lafayette Trail. She stated that she would like to see the chapter involved in the project. Johnson said she had NYDAR Lafayette Fan Club brochures available if anyone was interested. Johnson also had NYDAR Name Badge Order forms available, along with forms for the bus tour to Continental Congress in Washington D.C. in June for those interested.

Debbi Cenni mentioned that Wreaths Across America will be held on Dec. 19. Johnson stated that she will be attending the ceremony at Bath and that it is a beautiful and moving experience.

Associate Member Deborah Stauring then spoke about the Revolutionary War Monument at Knox Farm State Park in East Aurora. She stated that there are application forms available for anyone interested in having her patriot’s name engraved on the monument. The cost is $150 per patriot. The chapter has already paid to have our patriot’s name, Benjamin Prescott, engraved on the monument.

She then mentioned the Pearls and Patriots Project. Starting in March, members will research information on their patriot and then share it with the chapter. There will be a signup sheet for the project dates and the information will remain in our chapter.

Johnson stated that the Christmas Party is Saturday, Dec. 5 at noon. It will be held at the Webb’s Captain’s Table Restaurant in Mayville. The price is $22.50, with tips included. A signup sheet is available as the restaurant needs to know the number who will attending for social distancing and other COVID-19 protocols.

Johnson asked members if they would like to donate to a cause at the Christmas Party. Pietro suggested that the chapter take up a collection at the Christmas Party for funds to be used toward our Cemetery Project. The chapter agreed this would be worthwhile.

If you had an ancestor who fought in the Revolutionary War and would like to join, call Pietro at 716-392-1166 or email jbpietro@gmail.com.