United States Constitution Week Sept. 17-23

The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution with Nathan Edson Chapter, urges Americans to reflect on the United States Constitution during this month's annual observance in honor this foundational document of national governance.

The DAR initiated the observance in 1955, when the service organization petitioned the U.S. Congress to dedicate September 17–23 of each year to the commemoration of Constitution Week.  Congress adopted the resolution, and on August 2, 1956, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed it into Public Law #915.  The celebration’s goals are threefold: to encourage the study of the historical events that led to the framing of the Constitution in September 1787; to remind the public that the Constitution is the basis of America’s great heritage and the foundation for its way of life; and to emphasize U.S. citizens’ responsibility to protect, defend and preserve the U.S. Constitution. 

Celebrations begin with Bells Across America, on September 17, when bells across the country are rung simultaneously at 4 pm EDT.  The week also features displays in schools, libraries, and other community locations: Proclamation signings, educational presentations in schools or in public, broadcast interviews and outdoor signage.  Nathan Edson Chapter provides materials for local teachers to use in their classrooms, co-sponsors a We the Kids book walk in Clyde with the Randolph-Decker Library, has displays in the Concordia Frank Carlson Library and Clay Center Carnegie Library.

One of the largest patriotic women's organizations in the world, DAR has more than 185,000 members in approximately 3,000 chapters across the country and several foreign countries.  DAR members promote historic preservation, education and patriotism via commemorative events, scholarships and educational initiatives, citizenship programs, service to veterans, meaningful community service and more.  For additional information about DAR and information about membership, contact Nathan Edson Chapter Regent Jeanna Walters-Fancella at jwalters64@gmail.com.