Brainerd Mission Cemetery program
Oct. 7 was a beautiful day to gather at The Brainerd Mission Cemetery. A historic program was hosted by the Chief John Ross Chapter and led by Patty Parks, Brainerd Mission Chapter chair for Chief John Ross. She presented a program on the Mission's history, DAR and SAR involvement in saving the cemetery, as well as who is buried or not buried there. Those in attendance included the SAR, Moccasin Bend and Chickamauga Chapters who were also Brainerd Mission Committee chairs. Members also brought their spouses and children to enjoy the discussion.
Brainerd Mission is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and owned by the five local DAR and SAR chapters.
The Mission operated for about 22 years in the early 1800s and covered about 25 acres. Much of the property at that time was purchased from John McDonald, John Ross’ grandfather. Today, Our Sacred Acre is all that remains. It is hardly noticeable in the East Gate loop, and a pleasant surprise for all who find it. Brainerd Mission is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is cared for by many volunteers throughout the year.
Chief John Ross Chapter in Chattanooga has grown steadily in membership since its founding almost 100 years ago, and is proud now to be the third largest chapter in the state of Tennessee, with 188 members. Any female 18 years or older who can prove that a Revolutionary War patriot is in her direct line is eligible and welcome to join the Chief John Ross Chapter, NSDAR.
The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) is a women’s service organization whose members can trace their lineage to an individual who contributed to securing American independence during the Revolutionary War. Today’s DAR is dynamic and diverse, with over 185,000 members in 3,000 chapters in the United States and abroad. DAR members annually provide millions of hours of volunteer service to their local communities nationwide and worldwide. DAR chapters participate in projects to promote historic preservation, education and patriotism. Over one million members have joined the organization since its founding in 1890.
Patty Parks leads the discussion