Local DAR chapter marks Declaration reading at Antioch Public Library

Several members and husbands of Libertyville’s Ansel Brainerd Cook Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution gathered at the Antioch Public Library at 5 p.m. on July 8 to read the Declaration of Independence as part of a nationwide observance marking America’s 250th anniversary.

From sea to shining sea, the local reading joined the America250 “Sharing the Spirit of America” initiative, which invited communities across all 50 states, U.S. territories, the District of Columbia and beyond to read the Declaration together on July 8 at a time coordinated with 6 p.m. Eastern Time.

The date recalls July 8, 1776, when the words of the Declaration moved from the halls of Congress into the public square. Four days after the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration, printed copies were carried out and read aloud so ordinary people could hear the bold claim that the colonies were now “free and independent states.”

For the Daughters of the American Revolution, the observance carries special meaning. The organization honors the courage and sacrifice of revolutionary patriots while working to preserve the stories of America’s founding for future generations.

Chapter members said the public reading served as both a remembrance of 1776 and a reminder that the ideals of liberty, self-government and civic responsibility continue to be carried forward by each generation.

The DAR is a nonprofit, nonpolitical, volunteer women’s service organization dedicated to promoting patriotism, preserving American history, and securing America’s future through better education. Membership is open to any woman 18 years or older who can prove lineal, bloodline descent from an ancestor who served the cause of American independence.

The Ansel Brainerd Cook chapter in Libertyville is celebrating its 49th year. Organized in 1977 by 17 members, it has now grown to include more than 185 members. In 2025, the ABC chapter members logged in over 6,800 volunteer hours in the towns they work and live in. DAR members honor the service their patriot ancestors gave for American Independence by providing service to their communities.

For more information, contact Ansel Brainerd Cook chapter at: ildar.org/chapters/anselbrainerdcook or email ABC4DAR@gmail.com.