🌿 Chapter History
Our Founding
In the spring of 1992, DAR members Agnes Van Orden, Mary Lou Chianese, Jean Katz, Claire Pellarin, and Beverleigh Schlieben came together with a shared vision—to establish a new DAR chapter in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. Alongside Elizabeth Carfagno, Roselyn Doverspike, Beverlee Felkner, Rachel Kemble, Nancy LaRocca, Marion O’Neill, Diane Orr, Edith Orr, Jean Torongo, Marjorie Torongo, and Marilyn Watson, these women became the organizing and charter members of what would become the Washington Crossing Chapter.
On August 29, 1992, the organizing officers were installed by the State Organizing Secretary. Twelve of the sixteen founding members signed the official “Report to Organize.” The officers were:
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Agnes Van Orden – Regent
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Mary Lou Chianese – Vice Regent
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Beverleigh Schlieben – Chaplain & Parliamentarian
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Jean Torongo – Recording Secretary
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Beverlee Felkner – Corresponding Secretary
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Marjorie Torongo – Treasurer
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Elizabeth Carfagno – Registrar
Our Name & Home
As required by the National Society, three name options were submitted: Washington Crossing, Bowman Hill, and Samuel Merrick. On October 7, 1992, the National Board of Management confirmed Washington Crossing Chapter of Yardley, Pennsylvania, the 146th chapter in the state.
Our first meetings were held at the historic David Library of the American Revolution in Washington Crossing, PA, connecting our chapter directly with a legacy of scholarship and Revolutionary War history.
🎉 Milestones & Growth
🔹 10th Anniversary – 2002
Celebrated at the home of Mary Lou Chianese on October 12, 2002, with a membership of approximately 40 women.
🔹 20th Anniversary – 2012
On October 20, 2012, the chapter celebrated its 20th anniversary with a membership that had grown to 124 women, actively engaged in service and education.
🔹 30th Anniversary – 2022
In October 2022, we proudly marked our 30th anniversary, with more than 200 members dedicated to promoting historic preservation, education, and patriotism. This milestone reflects not only our chapter's growth but also the strength and passion of women who seek to make a meaningful difference in their communities through DAR.
📸 Chapter Legacy in Photos
Below:
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Organizing Members (1992)
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Chapter Members through the Years, including milestone celebrations and community service events.

Above: Organizing Members; Below 20th Anniversary


Above: David Library; Below 30th Anniversary
