Our Chapter  

The Fort Laurens Chapter was formed November 5, 1928, when the National Society authorized a chapter at New Philadelphia. Some Members of the Canton Chapter became members-at-large in order to form the new chapter.  They were: Mrs. Emma Fleicner Ream, Mrs. Nelle Sammons Allison, Miss Minerva Fletcher, Mrs. Marie Anthony Blackstone, and Mrs. Leah Crater Senhauser.

Fort Laurens Chapter is an appropriate name, since it is the only Revolutionary War Fort in Ohio, and was named for Henry Laurens, President of the Continental Congress. Fort Laurens remained an active American military post from November of 1778 through August of 1779. During that time, the fort was clearly perceived by the British and their Indian allies in the northwest as a very serious threat. This was evident from the numerous attacks on the fort by Indians, Loyalists and British soldiers. These attacks resulted in the death of more than 20 American soldiers, who were later buried a short distance from the fort, near the fort hospital.

Tomb of the Unknown Patriot of the American Revolution

Just outside the Fort Laurens Museum, which houses many artifacts from the fort site, is the Tomb of the Unknown Patriot of the American Revolution  It pays lasting homage to at least one of the unknown defenders of the fort. The young man was laid to rest with full military honors from the Ohio National Guard in 1976.

Fort Laurens is, in reality, a military cemetery of the American Revolution. Rebuilding this memorial is fitting tribute to the men and women who gave their lives for America’s freedom.

National Society

The Daughters of the American Revolution was founded in October 11, 1890, incorporated by an Act of the United States Congress in 1896. Mrs. Benjamin Harrison was the first President General.

The objectives of NSDAR are Historic Preservation, Promotion of Education and Patriotic Endeavor. The society works to perpetuate the memory and spirit of the men and women who achieved American independence; to cherish, maintain, and extend the institutions of American Freedom, to foster true patriotism and love of country; and to aid in securing for mankind all the blessings of liberty.