Friday, May 21, 2010

DAR Genealogical Research System (GRS)

I just discovered a feature that was at least new to me as I explored the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) site in preparation for my visit to the DAR Library in Washington,DC next month. One of the most interesting features of the site is their The DAR Genealogical Research System (GRS).

After entering GRS I did an "Ancestor" search on my revolutionary 4th great-grandfather, Richard Dowell, and found links to the applications of descendants who have used his service to apply for DAR membership. Although information on persons who were living at the time of the application are not shown online, there was still quite a bit of information of genealogical interest there. By selecting the "Descendants" tab, one can search for those along the line that was used to "prove" membership. I definitely will be returning to this site to see what data is here that will help me fill in my family tree.

A word of caution, however. I did see one line that had been proven by a paper trail that DNA has now disproved. I guess even the DAR is not infallible.

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