Historic Society and the DAR Join to Preserve History
A crowd from Dutchess, Putnam and Westchester Counties gathered before a crackling fire in the spacious kitchen of the Tabor-Wing House in Dover Plains on Saturday to dedicate the newly restored cooking fireplace in the heart of this historical home.
The fireplace restoration was the focus of a grant the Town of Dover Historical Society won from the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, a lineage society whose mission pillars are historical preservation, education and patriotism.
The NSDAR Special Projects Grant, initiated by Past Regent of the Enoch Crosby Chapter Fran Braley of Wingdale, was the source of funding for the fireplace renovation.
“This is the perfect example of the use of The Special Projects Grant.” Denise Doring VanBuren, First Vice-President General, NSDAR explained as she addressed the assembly. “Through this program, the National Society of the DAR provides support to groups across the country, distributing nearly $1.5 million in such community grants since the program began six years ago.” Mrs. Van Buren is a member of the Melzingah Chapter, NSDAR in Beacon, NY and a member of the National Board of Management of the NSDAR.
Linda French, Supervisor of the Town of Dover, acted as the Master of Ceremonies for the dedication. She introduced Paul Palmer, Town Councilman of Dover and Alan Surman, Dutchess County Legislator, who praised the Historical Society and its work and thanked the NSDAR for participating in such a worthwhile restoration. In addition, Val LaRobardier, town Historian read a congratulatory greeting from the Dutchess County Historian, Will Tatum. Caroline Reichenberg, town Historian, offered a history of the home, giving context to the commitment of the preservation of this beautiful example of Colonial architecture.
After the dedication ceremony the Town of Dover Historical Society treated all present to a pot luck luncheon; many were delighted to dine in the kitchen where they enjoyed the ambience of the blazing fire.
The NSDAR is open to all women, ages 18 and older, who have a direct line to a Patriot who served in the American Revolution. Genealogists are available to help those seeking membership with their applications.
For more information about the NSDAR, their activities and membership please email the Enoch Crosby Chapter Regent: Jennifer Pollack at jenn.pollack@yahoo.com or call: 845-803-4781.
