Samuel and Lillian Homestead

Meet Lillian Evans:

Hello, Hello. Lillian Slaymaker Evans. Pleasure! Might I bend your ear momentarily? I promise not to poke around with religion or politics. I only wanted to discuss the simple act of patriotism with you. Ladies, I speak to you especially. As the proud forty-first charter member of the D.A.R., it is an honor and privilege to speak boastfully of the patriots of the Revolutionary War. And I have come to make a career out of it.

I’d say my patriotic interests have stemmed from my early childhood. My father, Samuel Evans, was a Captain in The War Between The States as well as the Justice of Peace, and contributing founder of the Lancaster Historical Society. My mother, Mary, was an active member of the Iris Club in Lancaster. I have easily been influenced to preserve history and honor those who risked their lives to bring us our independence. Choosing how to proceed with that knowledge and appreciation for history and patriotism was Simple.

After reading a newspaper article of the newly formed D.A.R. chapter in Washington, I wrote to First Lady, Mrs. Caroline Harrison and submitted my request to join the organization. I was accepted at once! My first accomplishment afterward was the organization of the Daughters of the American Revolution Lancaster Chapter, called Donegal. During my years involved, I instituted a prize essay contest for student Seniors and a student loan program to help promising young women advance after completing School.

Over the next five years our humbled 5 members at Donegal grew to 212 while I served continuously as regent until stepping down to give my attention to a new project. Myself and 13 other members resigned from the Donegal chapter in 1897 to form the Witness Tree Chapter. Our first venture was to raise funds to commemorate those who served during the Revolutionary War with a dignified monument. With a jubilant response, it was erected on October 4th 1899 at Donegal Presbyterian Church.

The D.A.R. extends memberships to female descendants of those who aided the cause of independence for the United States, and continues to thrive in its acts of historical preservation, promotion of education, and encouragement of patriotic endeavors. Ladies, I ask you, have you familiarized yourself with your lineage, because I see a lot of potential in this crowd. As for myself, I remain active with the Witness Tree Chapter of the D.A.R. and intend to do so until my death, offering my civil services wherever needed. I thank you kindly for setting time aside to hear of the valiant accomplishments of the Daughters of the American Revolution, and encourage you to stop by Keystone Fire Company if you’re interested in hearing of their trials and growth. Another wonderful addition to this town throughout time. Good evening!