As one of the world’s leading economic powers, the United States emerged from the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, and the ratification of the United States Constitution in 1788. In just 240 years, it has developed into a literal superpower.
When we study the history of this country, we often come across figures like General George Washington, the commander-in-chief during the Revolutionary War, and other so-called Founding Fathers, known for their upbringing and historical achievements.
However, there is less focus on the women, children, and indigenous people who supported the revolution behind the scenes. Their perspectives and contributions to history are not widely known.
History is often passed down by the victors, but in recent years, there has been a growing interest in exploring historical events from various perspectives. This has led to the establishment of research institutions with such themes in various places around the world.
In this regard, let me introduce DAR, a research institution dedicated to studying the history of women during America’s founding era.
What is DAR?
DAR stands for “Daughters of the American Revolution.” As the name suggests, it is a research institution with functions like a library and a museum, dedicated to the study of women during the founding era of America.
The staff working at DAR, except for security personnel, are all women, and they are all descendants of individuals who settled in America during the founding period. Their primary focus is on researching and investigating their own ancestors and the descendants of the founding era in their respective regions. They also collect and manage artifacts and items used during that time, exhibiting them in their museum.
Distinctive Features of DAR and Visitation Guidelines
DAR indeed focuses on women’s perspectives in American history, and its museum and library are designed accordingly.
To enter the facility, visitors undergo standard security checks, and they are required to state their purpose of visit and receive a security clearance seal to wear visibly throughout their stay.
The entrance may be a bit inconspicuous, located at the west side of the White House on 17th Street, where you turn onto D Street, and a sign serves as a marker. The address “1776” is engraved beside the relatively small door, adding to the realization that this is indeed a research institution dedicated to the descendants of the Revolutionary era.
Inside the building, it exudes a warm and nostalgic atmosphere, reminiscent of a school setting. Unlike most buildings in the city, which are vast with spacious entrances and corridors, DAR is more intimate, making it easy to explore.
The museum is situated immediately to the right after entering, and the front and inner walls are glass-paneled, allowing visitors to see the interior from the entrance. The bright interior, predominantly white, is enhanced by tight security measures. Therefore, if you visit on a weekday, you might enjoy a relatively private viewing experience.
While the museum is open for free exploration, there is always staff present at the reception to greet and assist visitors. Photography is allowed, but visitors should be mindful of not including other people in their shots and be considerate of staff members.
After touring the museum and heading back to the entrance area, there is another reception where, if lucky, you might be accompanied by a dedicated guide to explore other facilities such as the library.
The library, located on the second floor of what was once a theater, maintains elements of its theatrical past. It has a multi-tiered semicircular seating structure, which used to be the audience area, and the stage is preserved as it was during its time as a theater.
On the other hand, when you enter the backyard and ascend to the second floor, you’ll find a room that used to serve as a dressing room, now converted into an exhibition space. Each section is labeled with the names of various states, and it houses artifacts and furniture dating from the founding era up until the 1860s, providing glimpses into the evolution of American furniture. Photography is allowed in this area, making it a perfect spot for capturing memories of your visit.
A History Beyond the Victors: Resilient Women Who Supported America from the Shadows
While Washington D.C. hosts various museums, including the Smithsonian, DAR stands out as a research institution with a focus on women during the Revolutionary era. It comprises a museum and a library, making it a unique and distinct place from other museums.
Visiting a research institution may seem intimidating, but DAR, like regular museums, is open to the public. So, when you have the chance to visit Washington D.C., consider stopping by DAR for a glimpse into the lives and contributions of women during America’s founding era.
This place is not commonly visited on regular tours, making your visit an exceptional conversation starter.
The White House is one of the most iconic landmarks in the United Stat...
