The National Society of The Colonial Dames of America

The National Society of The Colonial Dames of America Founded in 1891, the NSCDA is one of the oldest historic preservation organizations in America.

We care for more than 90 historic sites and collections and are an unincorporated association of 45 Corporate Societies with over 15,000 members.

New York, previously New Amsterdam, was originally settled by the Dutch and later taken over by the England in 1664. Pic...
07/24/2024

New York, previously New Amsterdam, was originally settled by the Dutch and later taken over by the England in 1664.

Pictured is a photograph on a postcard entitled "The Surrender of New Amsterdam, Museum of the City of New York. New York New York State United States, 1932"

Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division

Comment your guess below, and stay tuned for tomorrow's reveal of the correct answer!
07/23/2024

Comment your guess below, and stay tuned for tomorrow's reveal of the correct answer!

Founded in 1891, the Pennsylvania Corporate Society of The National Society of The Colonial Dames of America (NSCDA-PA) ...
07/19/2024

Founded in 1891, the Pennsylvania Corporate Society of The National Society of The Colonial Dames of America (NSCDA-PA) is dedicated to preserving and promoting our nation's rich history through patriotic service, education, and historical preservation. Their efforts include maintaining Stenton, the historic home of James Logan, William Penn's secretary, and actively engaging in educational programs that highlight Pennsylvania's pivotal role in American history.

The first American Flag, adopted by Congress on June 14, 1777, was made by Betsy Ross in 1776 at 239 Arch Street, Philad...
07/17/2024

The first American Flag, adopted by Congress on June 14, 1777, was made by Betsy Ross in 1776 at 239 Arch Street, Philadelphia. The Committee, including Robert Morris, Hon. George Ross, and General George Washington, collaborated with Ross to create the emblem. This print, presented by the American Flag House and Betsy Ross Memorial Association, honors Ross's contribution and supports the preservation of her house and the establishment of a national memorial. The original painting is housed in the State Museum of Pennsylvania in Harrisburg, PA. The print was created as a souvenir for a fundraising club to save the Betsy Ross House.

Pictured is a print entitled, "Birth of our nation's flag / C.H. Weisgerber. Pennsylvania Philadelphia, 1893"

Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division

A group came together to move their bodies, calm their minds and support a wonderful cause this weekend at Dumbarton Hou...
07/15/2024

A group came together to move their bodies, calm their minds and support a wonderful cause this weekend at Dumbarton House. ❤️🧘‍♂️

Repost from

Thank you to these yogis who joined me this morning for a special meditation and yoga class in our beautiful Dumbarton House garden which is the headquarters for my fellow Colonial Dames Donations from today benefit VETOGA which supports veterans and active duty military with yoga therapy and training. We will continue these classes intermittently through the summer and fall. Please join us next time.

Founded on May 10, 1892, the Delaware Corporate Society of The National Society of The Colonial Dames of America (NSCDA-...
07/12/2024

Founded on May 10, 1892, the Delaware Corporate Society of The National Society of The Colonial Dames of America (NSCDA-DE) is committed to historic preservation, patriotic service, and education. Their initiatives include promoting historical research and community engagement. Discover Delaware's rich history, from the first Dutch colony in 1631 to the "Diamond State" moniker given by Thomas Jefferson. The John Dickinson Plantation is a historic treasure saved by the DE Dames.

Peachfield, located in Westampton, New Jersey, is a restored country plantation house built in 1725 with a later additio...
07/10/2024

Peachfield, located in Westampton, New Jersey, is a restored country plantation house built in 1725 with a later addition in 1732. Originally part of a 300-acre property purchased by John Skene in the late 17th century, the estate was later owned by the Burr family for 200 years. After a fire in 1929, the house was restored in the colonial revival style by Norman and Miriam Harker. Today, Peachfield serves as the headquarters for The National Society of The Colonial Dames of America in The State of New Jersey (NSCDA-NJ) and functions as a house museum, preserving its historical integrity and surrounding farmland.

The NSCDA Hawaii Corporate Society collaborates closely with the Hawaiian Mission Houses Historic Site and Archives in H...
07/05/2024

The NSCDA Hawaii Corporate Society collaborates closely with the Hawaiian Mission Houses Historic Site and Archives in Honolulu’s Historic Capital District. Known for its pivotal role in developing the Hawaiian written language in partnership with Hawaiian royalty and the local community, this site preserves the oldest houses in Hawaii from the early 19th century. The society actively supports educational programs and the reinterpretation of historical narratives, contributing to a deeper understanding of 19th-century Hawaiian culture and missionary history.

Happy 4th of July from the NSCDA and Dumbarton House! Celebrating America's heritage and independence with pride and rev...
07/04/2024

Happy 4th of July from the NSCDA and Dumbarton House! Celebrating America's heritage and independence with pride and reverence for our nation's history.️

The historic event that took place on July 4, 1826, marking the 50th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, was...
07/03/2024

The historic event that took place on July 4, 1826, marking the 50th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, was the deaths of both Thomas Jefferson and John Adams, two of the Declaration's signers, occurring on the same day, July 4, 1826.

Pictured is a print entitled "Funeral thoughts, excited by the death of John Adams and Thos. Jefferson, on the fourth of July, 1826, the jubilee of independence ... Boston. Howe & Norton, printers, 14 State Street [1826]"

📷: Library of Congress, Rare Book and Special Collections Division, Printed Ephemera Collection

The project headed by the NSCDA that provides a national platform to promote and share stories of America's past is Grea...
06/26/2024

The project headed by the NSCDA that provides a national platform to promote and share stories of America's past is Great American Treasures. This initiative includes a collection of over 60 historic house museums and sites across the United States, each preserving and showcasing the rich tapestry of American history through their unique stories and artifacts. Explore the diverse heritage and vibrant past of the nation through these remarkable treasures. For more information visit greatamericantreasures.org

One of our most unique Great American Treasures! Repost from •Maintained by , this historic SF landmark is a treasure tr...
06/24/2024

One of our most unique Great American Treasures!

Repost from

Maintained by , this historic SF landmark is a treasure trove of artifacts and history!

Some fun facts about the Octogon House:
- It survived the 1906 Earthquake
- It was originally built across the street, and was moved! SF old house things…
- It was purchased by the National Society of The Colonial Dames of America in 1952 for $1
- And so so so much more!

The Arizona Dames, founded in 1961, are a vibrant and active group in Tucson and the Phoenix area. Their patriotic servi...
06/21/2024

The Arizona Dames, founded in 1961, are a vibrant and active group in Tucson and the Phoenix area. Their patriotic service includes scholarships for history teachers and Native American medical students, as well as donations to Native American veterans and the Tucson VA Medical Center. Educational projects include scholarships for teachers and students to attend programs such as the Teachers Institute in Williamsburg and the National Washington Workshop. They hold state meetings, educational tours, and 'Learn with Lunch' events, fostering camaraderie and lifelong friendships.

Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. It signifies June 19, 1865, when the final enslaved Afr...
06/19/2024

Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. It signifies June 19, 1865, when the final enslaved African Americans in Texas were informed of their freedom—two and a half years following the Emancipation Proclamation. This occasion serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing fight for equality and justice.

📷: Detroit Publishing Company (Library of Congress)

Let's honor the enduring legacy of our flag, on Flag Day. From its humble beginnings in 1885 to its official establishme...
06/14/2024

Let's honor the enduring legacy of our flag, on Flag Day. From its humble beginnings in 1885 to its official establishment in 1916, the Stars and Stripes have symbolized our nation's resilience and unity. Let's celebrate the sacrifices of our ancestors and the dedication of our armed forces to uphold the values it represents. Happy Flag Day!

📷: State of Wisconsin Collection (University of Wisconsin-Madison)

Inspired by decades of grassroots celebrations, President Woodrow Wilson officially established Flag Day through proclam...
06/12/2024

Inspired by decades of grassroots celebrations, President Woodrow Wilson officially established Flag Day through proclamation in 1916, solidifying June 14th as a day to honor the enduring symbol of American unity and freedom.

📷: National Photo Company Collection (Library of Congress)

The Oklahoma Society, founded in 1914, boasts a rich history of contributions. From knitting for the USS Oklahoma in WWI...
06/07/2024

The Oklahoma Society, founded in 1914, boasts a rich history of contributions. From knitting for the USS Oklahoma in WWI to aiding the Mexican settlement in the 1920s, their efforts have spanned education, historic preservation, and community support. They’ve erected four granite monuments, contributed to historical research, and supported veterans. Notably, they’ve placed historical books in hospitals and created 'Colonial Day at the Capitol.' Today, they continue to honor our heritage by interviewing veterans for the Library of Congress.

In 1888, New York City purchased the 1,000-acre Van Cortlandt family estate to create Van Cortlandt Park. Justine Van Re...
06/05/2024

In 1888, New York City purchased the 1,000-acre Van Cortlandt family estate to create Van Cortlandt Park. Justine Van Rensselaer Townsend, the second President of the National Society of Colonial Dames in the State of New York, played a pivotal role in its restoration in 1896. By 1897, it opened as the first historic house museum in New York City and the fourth in the nation, thanks to her efforts. She also pioneered the public-private partnership model for park stewardship that is still essential today.

Comment your guess below and stay tuned for tomorrow's reveal of the correct answer!
06/04/2024

Comment your guess below and stay tuned for tomorrow's reveal of the correct answer!

The original name of the house purchased by the NSCDA in 1927 to serve as its National Headquarters was Belle Vue. Acqui...
05/29/2024

The original name of the house purchased by the NSCDA in 1927 to serve as its National Headquarters was Belle Vue. Acquired in 1928, this historic house has since been restored to showcase its original Federal-style elegance, previously hidden by Colonial Revival embellishments and years of deferred maintenance. Belle Vue, now known as Dumbarton House, stands as a testament to the NSCDA's dedication to preserving and promoting America's colonial heritage.

Happy National Wyoming Day! 🎉 The NSCDA in Wyoming, founded in 1913, is dedicated to preserving our nation’s heritage an...
05/24/2024

Happy National Wyoming Day! 🎉 The NSCDA in Wyoming, founded in 1913, is dedicated to preserving our nation’s heritage and promoting true patriotism. With over 15,000 members nationwide, the Wyoming Society proudly maintains The Mandel Cabin and Post Office in Sheridan. They also support Dumbarton House, Gunston Hall, and the American Indian Medical Scholarship.

During the 1940s, the NSCDA raised funds to support a U.S.O. center and donated supplies to the Red Cross. In fact, Dumb...
05/22/2024

During the 1940s, the NSCDA raised funds to support a U.S.O. center and donated supplies to the Red Cross. In fact, Dumbarton House, the NSCDA headquarters, was transformed into a Red Cross facility during WWII to support relief efforts from 1942 to 1945.

Comment your guess below, and stay tuned for tomorrow's reveal of the correct answer!
05/21/2024

Comment your guess below, and stay tuned for tomorrow's reveal of the correct answer!

Address

2715 Q Street NW
Washington D.C., DC
20007

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm

Telephone

+12023372288

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