Celebrating Growth Since Independence Day: Welcoming New Members and Honoring Supplemental Achievements

RICHMOND, VA — January 1, 2026 — Since July 4, 2025, the Virginia Society Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) has experienced a remarkable surge in membership activity. We proudly recognize the addition of 127 new compatriots and the approval of 65 supplemental applications from 27 chapters, bringing our grand total to 192 new and supplemental recognitions.

This growth reflects not only the expanding interest in honoring Revolutionary War ancestors but also the commitment of existing members to deepen their genealogical connections.

The Society also noted major improvements in application processing times. New member applications are now being completed in approximately 15 weeks, and supplemental applications in about 30 weeks—a substantial acceleration compared to processing times just a few months ago. This progress reflects the sustained efforts of national and state-level volunteers working to streamline review and verification.

Leading the Charge

Several chapters stood out for their exceptional activity:

• Fairfax Resolves (VA4) led all chapters with 29 total recognitions, including 15 new members and 14 supplementals.

• Richmond (VA13) followed closely with 25 total, showing a strong balance of new and supplemental applications.

• Williamsburg (VA17) and Col William Grayson (VA28) each surpassed 20 total recognitions, demonstrating vibrant engagement in both recruitment and lineage research.

Honoring Dedication

Chapters like George Mason (VA7) and George Washington (VA8) showed impressive new member counts, while Col James Wood II (VA34) and Thomas Jefferson (VA15) maintained steady growth through both new and supplemental submissions.

Even smaller chapters made meaningful contributions. Great Bridge (VA39), Norfolk (VA11), and Patrick Henry (VA22) each added to the collective success, proving that every effort counts in preserving our shared heritage.

A Testament to Legacy

Each new member brings a unique story and ancestral connection, enriching the SAR community. Supplemental applications reflect the ongoing passion of our members to uncover and honor additional patriots in their lineage.

This surge in activity since Independence Day is a testament to the enduring relevance of our mission: to perpetuate the memory of those who fought for American independence and to inspire future generations through historical awareness and civic engagement.

Looking Ahead to America’s 250th

As the nation enters 2026—the historic 250th Anniversary of the United States—the Virginia SAR encourages every chapter to build on this momentum. This milestone year offers a unique opportunity to expand our ranks, deepen our genealogical work, and ensure that the stories of our patriot ancestors are preserved and celebrated. Chapters are urged to actively recruit new members and submit supplemental applications throughout the year, helping the Virginia Society lead the way in honoring America’s founding generation.