By Russ Godwin (6163221)
In 1876, there were many celebrations of the centennial anniversary of our nation’s founding on July 4, 1776. This patriotic fervor and renewed interested in our heritage led to the formation of societies such as the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) and the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR). The primary requirement for membership in these societies is direct descendance from a recognized patriot. Our John More was such a patriot.
Upon hearing news of the Battle of Lexington in 1775, the settlers of Delaware County, NY met and drafted Articles of Association which said they approved of the proceedings of the First Continental Congress and were determined to support it. They appointed a Committee of Vigilance, of which John More was a member, to monitor Tories and hostile Indians. As a member of this committee, John was classified as a “Recognized Patriot” by the Sons of the American Revolution. John joined the militia in 1776 and served, intermittently, until the war ended in 1783.
In 1940, the Sons of the American Revolution conducted a grave marking ceremony at the grave of John More. This ceremony included the installation of a permanent marker that can be found there today. A More descendant, Colonel Alva Brasted, presided over the ceremony. Colonel Brasted was a former Chief of Chaplains of the United States Army.
As we approach America’s 250th, or Semiquincentennial, Anniversary it is important to renew our commitment to our founding principles. The patriotic lineage societies are committed to education and preservation of our history. One way we can demonstrate our commitment is joining a patriotic lineage society.
Over 100 descendants of John More have been approved for membership in SAR and DAR. Any direct descendant of John More is eligible for membership in SAR or DAR. Descendants under the age of 18 are eligible for membership in the Children of the American Revolution.
There are More cousins who are current members of these societies and willing to help those interested in joining one.
Read more about joining here.
Thanks to Russ Godwin for submitting this essay to the JMA Journal. He and the JMA Genealogist, Juanita Goin, were working on an application for her brother to join the Sons of the American Revolution. He was kind enough to share his knowledge.