Liberty Luncheon – a Celebration of DAR Daughters

Six NSDAR military veterans attended the Liberty Luncheon

The inaugural Liberty Luncheon, hosted by the Greater Smoky Mountain Council of Regents on May 23, was a delightful gathering for members of the Martha Dandridge Washington Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR). Formed in 2019, the Greater Smoky Mountain Council comprises members from four chapters: Spencer Clack, William Cocke, Samuel Doak, and Martha Dandridge Washington. These chapters are united by a shared commitment to historic preservation, education, and patriotism – principles that remain as vital today as they were in 1776.

The Carson Springs Baptist Convention Center was beautifully decorated in patriotic colors, creating a festive atmosphere as attendees arrived in festive attire, many accessorized with charming tea hats and fascinators. Some members even embraced period costumes. Becca Lee, First Vice Regent of the Martha Dandridge Washington Chapter, welcomed attendees. Charlotte Leibrock offered the invocation, Karen Nunan led the Pledge of Allegiance, and Martha Murray led a rendition of the National Anthem. Special guests included committee chairs from the NSDAR and TSDAR, along with six distinguished veteran members, including Janet Guyett of the Martha Dandridge Washington Chapter, who served 12 1/2 years in the U.S. Navy.

Attendees enjoyed a delicious meal, with many praising the Tiramisu and cheesecake. The program featured guest speaker Ann Blomquist of the Martha Dandridge Washington Chapter, who presented “What is Your Name,” a fascinating exploration of the origins of surnames and naming conventions. She encouraged attendees to become detectives of their own family histories.

Throughout the event, silent auction baskets from the four chapters generated excitement, with a variety of items available, including gift cards, artwork, and handmade crafts. Proceeds from the auction will support a Council project. After the basket recipients were announced, Becca Lee, 1st Vice Regent of the Martha Dandridge Washington Chapter and Acting Chair of the Greater Smoky Mountain Council of Regents, concluded the event.

The day was a joyful celebration of American heritage and a tribute to the patriots who helped shape the nation. In her closing remarks, Lee focused on America 250 and said, “As we prepare to celebrate America 250, let us remember that patriotism is not confined to the pages of history – it lives in our communities, our service, our families, and our willingness to carry forward the ideals of liberty entrusted to us by our Patriot ancestors. The Daughters of the American Revolution and the Greater Smoky Mountain Council of Regents stand as a testament to what can be accomplished when women unite in purpose, leadership, and love of country.”

For more information about the DAR, interested individuals can contact Ann Blomquist, Registrar, at (865) 397-3738 or Linda Null Bonner at (605) 381-2864.

Presenter Blomquist challenged attendees to “Be a detective – think, reason, question, discover.”