In each issue, the bimonthly DAR magazine, American Spirit, highlights an object from the DAR Museum collection in its "National Treasures" feature. These objects always have a story to tell about American history.
National Treasures
A common sight to DAR members, the DAR insignia was inspired by this spinning wheel, one of approximately 30,000 objects in the DAR Museum’s collection reflecting the material culture and social...
This delicate-looking lead glass sweetmeat stand, acquired by the DAR Museum this year, was made in England between 1730 and 1760. Sweetmeats are candied fruits and nuts usually served for dessert...
Parenting advice books of the 18th and 19th century agreed that “the mother’s milk, or that of a healthy nurse, is unquestionably the best food for an infant.” Still, some mothers supplemented or...
An award of merit and a silk streamer/bookmark verify Sarah Elizabeth Moughon’s attendance at the Lydia English Female Seminary in Washington, D.C. The well-known Georgetown school was founded in 1826...
Covered in Bohemian garnets and bearing an enameled shield with 13 stars, this small brooch owned by first DAR President General Caroline Scott Harrison and now part of the DAR Museum collection has...
Browne and Buckwell of New York City made this gilt and fancy painted harp in the late 19th century. The founder of the firm, John F. Browne, was considered to be one of the best harp makers in New...
Featuring sawtooth borders and hawk-like birds, the framed Tree of Life medallion of this 1820s New Jersey quilt reflects the ornithological passion of Edward Harris, for whom the quilt was made. The...
Little is known about the techniques and professional careers of 18th- and 19th-century American artists. Visual evidence is even rarer, but the DAR Museum collection contains an example: a small...
A peek inside a Victorian-era jewelry box might reveal intricate pieces made of gold, gemstones, enamel … and hair. The DAR Museum collection includes many examples of hair jewelry dating from the...
Imaginative decoration and vibrant color transform simple wooden boards into a memorable example of American folk art. Standing a mere 9 inches on its sturdy legs, this small bench commands attention...