JACOB GASKINS CHAPTER, NSDAR, HOLDS ORGANIZING MEETING
New National Society Daughters of the American Revolution Chapter Organized in Stark County
The Jacob Gaskins Chapter, NSDAR, of North Canton held its organizing meeting in May with 30 founding members.
North Canton, OH — The NSDAR has welcomed a new chapter in Ohio with the formation of the Jacob Gaskins Chapter, NSDAR. The chapter celebrated its organizing meeting in May with 30 founding members in attendance.
Stephanie Martin Shively, the chapter’s organizing regent, led the effort, beginning the process in March 2024. With guidance from the organizing secretary of the Ohio Society and support from the administration of the Ohio Society, the chapter received official approval to organize. Shively personally invited women committed to the DAR’s mission, verifying each member’s lineage to a Revolutionary War Patriot through meticulous genealogical research.
The chapter was named for Jacob Gaskins, a notable local figure born into slavery in 1792 in Winchester, Virginia. After gaining his freedom, Gaskins settled in Plain Township in 1817, built a family, and became a prominent landowner. He operated a station on the Underground Railroad and was the first African American to vote in the township following the ratification of the 15th Amendment in 1870.
The state regent and organizing secretary general attended the inaugural meeting, administering the Oath of Membership and installing the chapter’s officers. Other attendees included the Ohio vice regent, state registrar, Northeast District director, and the meeting’s guest speaker representing the North Canton Heritage Society, who shared insights about Jacob Gaskins’ life and legacy.
The Jacob Gaskins Chapter, NSDAR, plans to meet monthly from September through May, excluding January, and will sponsor Wreaths Across America at North Canton Cemetery on December 13.
Women interested in learning more about NSDAR membership should contact the chapter.