Virginia SAR Membership Growth Accelerates in 2026 as America 250 Approaches

RICHMOND, VA - The Virginia Society, Sons of the American Revolution, is experiencing a surge of membership activity as the Commonwealth prepares to commemorate the 250th Anniversary of American Independence. Across the state, chapters are welcoming new compatriots and documenting additional Patriot ancestors at a pace that reflects both renewed public interest and the dedication of chapter registrars, genealogists, and volunteers.

Recent activity includes 40 new member applications, 21 supplemental applications, and 1 memorial application, documenting a total of 62 Patriot ancestors.

“This year’s growth reflects the strength and spirit of our Society as we approach the 250th anniversary of American independence,” said Virginia SAR President Darrin M. Schmidt. “Welcoming new compatriots, documenting additional Patriot ancestors, and chartering the new Abraham Brown Chapter in New Kent and Charles City counties all demonstrate how Virginians are reconnecting with their Revolutionary heritage. Each new member and each newly documented Patriot strengthens our mission and ensures that these stories endure for future generations.”

New Member Applications: Strong Growth Across Virginia

New member applications—each representing a newly documented Patriot ancestor—are coming in from chapters of every size and region. Several chapters are leading the way:

• Fairfax Resolves and George Washington – 8 new Patriot ancestors each

• Richard Henry Lee – 6 new Patriot ancestors

• Col. William Grayson – 4 new Patriot ancestors

• Williamsburg – 3 new Patriot ancestors

• Sgt. Maj. John Champe and Col. James Wood II – 2 new Patriot ancestors each

• Norfolk, Richmond, Thomas Nelson Jr, Culpeper Minutemen, Patrick Henry, Gen. Daniel Morgan, and James Monroe – 1 new Patriot ancestor each

This broad distribution shows that interest in SAR membership is strong statewide—from Tidewater to Northern Virginia to the Shenandoah Valley.

Supplemental Applications: Deepening Patriot Lineage

Supplemental applications—where existing members document additional Patriot ancestors—continue to strengthen the Society’s historical record. Chapters reporting supplemental Patriot ancestors include:

• Fairfax Resolves – 5 supplemental Patriot ancestors

• George Washington – 4 supplemental Patriot ancestors

• Thomas Nelson Jr, Williamsburg, and Col. Fielding Lewis – 2 supplemental Patriot ancestors each

• Richmond, Col. William Grayson, Dan River, and Fort Harrison – 1 supplemental Patriot ancestor each

These supplementals reflect the ongoing genealogical research being done by compatriots who continue to uncover new connections to the men and women who supported the cause of independence.

Memorial Applications

The George Washington Chapter also recorded a memorial application, ensuring that the lineage of a deceased descendant is formally documented and preserved.

Building Toward America 250

The documentation of 62 Patriot ancestors in recent activity represents more than numerical growth—it reflects a deepening commitment to preserving Revolutionary War history at a time when the nation is preparing for its most significant commemoration in a generation.

This growing membership base strengthens the Society’s ability to support youth education and scholarship programs, honor veterans and public safety professionals, partner with schools, churches, and civic organizations, and share the stories of Patriot ancestors with communities across the Commonwealth.

As 2026 unfolds, the Virginia SAR stands ready to play a leading role in the America 250 commemoration—ensuring that the legacy of the American Revolution remains vibrant, accessible, and inspiring for all Virginians.