PROPOSAL TO AMEND NSDAR

NATIONAL BYLAWS
ARTICLE III- SECTION 1 - Eligibility - to define a woman
ARTICLE III- SECTION 2 - Admission - Required DNA TEST
OR Sworn Statement
INSTRUCTIONS FOR ENDORSING CHAPTERS

PROPOSAL TO AMEND NSDAR

NATIONAL BYLAWS,
ARTICLE III- SECTIONS 1 & 2
to define a woman

Your Meeting Agenda must announce that there

will be a vote at the next meeting.

A Motion must be made at the meeting.

(see attached mandatory motion language)

The two proposed amendments should be read all in one

motion - they should be voted on as a set.

The motion must be re-read by the regent after it is

read by the person making the motion.

Members should be given the opportunity to speak.

There must be a majority vote to pass the motion -

this can be done by secret ballot or not.

After the motion passes, the following information is

required on the motion: Chapter Name, State, Date Motion
is Passed, names, addresses and signatures of the Chapter
Regent and Recording Secretary - the PDF has fillable
fields for this.

please scan and email the signed motion to

[email protected].

if you are not able to scan and email the document,

please send an email to [email protected] to
request a prepaid mailing label - be sure to include your
chapter name and address.
DNA TEST OR SWORN STATEMENT
I move that the _______________Chapter authorizes the regent to be an endorsing
chapter to the proposal to amend the National Bylaws, Article III, Membership, Section
1, Eligibility and Section 2, Admission.

BYLAWS WOULD READ:

BYLAW WOULD READ:

Section 1. Eligibility. Any woman is eligible for membership in the National Society of
the Daughters of the American Revolution who is not less than eighteen years of age,
and who is lineally descended from a man or woman who, with unfailing loyalty to the
cause of American Independence, served as a sailor, or a soldier or civil officer in one
of the several Colonies or States, or in the United Colonies or States or as a recognized
patriot, or rendered material aid thereto. A woman is defined as a biological female at
conception, having only naturally occurring X chromosomes, exclusive of Y
chromosomes, and certified as female or girl on the original birth certificate. NSDAR
and its chapters may not discriminate against an eligible applicant.

BYLAW WOULD READ:

Section 2. Admission. Admission to membership in the National Society shall be either
through a chapter or as a Member-at-Large.
a) The applicant shall submit all required documents, prepared in accordance with
instructions established and distributed by the National Society, the results of a
required chromosomal DNA test to determine naturally occurring X
chromosomes, exclusive of Y chromosomes, or a notarized, sworn statement
affirming the birth certificate submitted is an unaltered, unamended original
document indicating female or girl, and accompanied by the prescribed fees and
dues within one year, unless granted extension by the chapter. Signatures of
endorsement on applications are optional.
 The State of , Chapter endorses the following two
amendments proposed by The State of Texas, Martha Laird Chapter to the National Bylaws Committee
for consideration at the 2025 Continental Congress for proposed bylaw changes.

Amendment #1
Amend Article III – Membership, SECTION 1. Eligibility, by adding “A woman is defined as a biological female at
conception, having naturally occurring X chromosomes, exclusive of Y chromosomes, and certified as female or girl
on the original birth certificate.” after the word “thereto.” Remove "based on race, religion, sexual orientation, national
origin, age, disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.” after the word “applicant”.

CURRENT:
Section 1. Eligibility. Any woman is eligible for membership in the National Society of the Daughters of the
American Revolution who is not less than eighteen years of age, and who is lineally descended from a man or
woman who, with unfailing loyalty to the cause of American Independence, served as a sailor, or a soldier or civil
officer in one of the several Colonies or States, or in the United Colonies or States or as a recognized patriot, or
rendered material aid thereto. NSDAR and its chapters may not discriminate against an eligible applicant based on
race, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable
law.

PROPOSED:
Section 1. Eligibility. Any woman is eligible for membership in the National Society of the Daughters of the
American Revolution who is not less than eighteen years of age, and who is lineally descended from a man or
woman who, with unfailing loyalty to the cause of American Independence, served as a sailor, or a soldier or civil
officer in one of the several Colonies or States, or in the United Colonies or States or as a recognized patriot, or
rendered material aid thereto. A woman is defined as a biological female at conception, having naturally occurring
X chromosomes, exclusive of Y chromosomes, and certified as female or girl on the original birth certificate. NSDAR
and its chapters may not discriminate against an eligible applicant based on race, religion, sexual orientation, national
origin, age, disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

BYLAW WOULD READ:

Section 1. Eligibility. Any woman is eligible for membership in the National Society of the Daughters of the
American Revolution who is not less than eighteen years of age, and who is lineally descended from a man or
woman who, with unfailing loyalty to the cause of American Independence, served as a sailor, or a soldier or civil
officer in one of the several Colonies or States, or in the United Colonies or States or as a recognized patriot, or
rendered material aid thereto. A woman is defined as a biological female at conception, having naturally occurring
X chromosomes, exclusive of Y chromosomes, and certified as female or girl on the original birth certificate. NSDAR
and its chapters may not discriminate against an eligible applicant.

RATIONALE: To honor the National Society founders’ original intent.1 To honor the Mission Statement of the NSDAR
to promote historic preservation,2 to honor God as indicated in the NSDAR Motto,3 to maintain American Heritage
to promote preservation of American cultural traditions,4 to recognize Women in American History,4 to encourage
DNA testing in promotion of NSDAR genealogy research,5a to adhere to current NSDAR Policy on Using DNA Evidence
for Applications acknowledging the distinction of X-X female chromosomes in contrast to X-Y male chromosomes.6
In addition to being a public accommodation and employer, DAR is also a private membership association. Its
membership policies are generally considered outside of the scope of anti-discrimination laws when membership
is restricted to people who share a protected characteristic – in this case, women.7
 Amendment #2
Amend Article III – Membership, SECTION 2. Admission, Section a) by adding "the results of a required
chromosomal DNA test to determine naturally occurring X chromosomes, exclusive of Y chromosomes or a notarized,
sworn statement affirming the birth certificate submitted is an unaltered, unamended original document indicating
female or girl” after the word “Society.”

CURRENT:
Section 2. Admission. Admission to membership in the National Society shall be either through a chapter or
as a Member-at-Large.
a) The applicant shall submit all required documents, prepared in accordance with instructions
established and distributed by the National Society, and accompanied by the prescribed fees and
dues within one year, unless granted extension by the chapter. Signatures of endorsement on applications
are optional.
PROPOSED:
Section 2. Admission. Admission to membership in the National Society shall be either through a chapter or
as a Member-at-Large.
a) The applicant shall submit all required documents, prepared in accordance with instructions
established and distributed by the National Society, the results of a required chromosomal DNA test
to determine naturally occurring X chromosomes, exclusive of Y chromosomes, or a notarized, sworn statement
affirming the birth certificate submitted is an unaltered, unamended original document indicating female or girl,
and accompanied by the prescribed fees and dues within one year, unless granted extension by the chapter.
Signatures of endorsement on applications are optional.
BYLAW WOULD READ:
Section 2. Admission. Admission to membership in the National Society shall be either through a chapter
or as a Member-at-Large.
a) The applicant shall submit all required documents, prepared in accordance with instructions
established and distributed by the National Society, the results of a required chromosomal DNA test to determine
naturally occurring X chromosomes, exclusive of Y chromosomes or a notarized, sworn statement affirming the
birth certificate submitted is an unaltered, unamended original document indicating female or girl, and accompanied
by the prescribed fees and dues within one year, unless granted extension by the chapter. Signatures of endorsement
on applications are optional.
RATIONALE: The DAR acknowledges the distinction of X-X female chromosomes in contrast to X-Y male
chromosomes.6 Requiring a DNA test will provide evidence of X-X chromosomes or sworn statement of an unaltered birth
certificate in keeping with membership requirements established by NSDAR founders and is in keeping with the
long-established parameters of membership for the Historic Women’s Society.1 In addition, it may provide evidence of
lineal descent from a patriot. The requirement for a DNA test is supported by current DAR DNA policies with protocol
currently in place for DNA test submission.5a,5b There are numerous DNA testing companies that provide services or tests
for genealogical purposes. 8,9

***IT SHOULD BE NOTED THAT THE REQUIRED DNA TEST WILL ONLY APPLY TO NEW APPLICANTS AND NOT EXISTING MEMBERS.***

1 NSDAR Handbook – Chronological History of the NSDAR, Organization, Page 33

2 NSDAR Handbook - Mission Statement, Page 8
3 NSDAR Motto – National Bylaws Article XVII – Seal, Page 39
4 NSDAR Handbook - DAR Committees, Historic Preservation - American Heritage, American History Page 12
5a NSDAR Handbook – Becoming a Member, Page 53 / 5b NSDAR Guidelines – Using DNA Evidence for DAR Applications
6 DAR Policy Statement and Background – Using DNA Evidence for DAR Applications, Page 1, Page 6
7 Answers to Frequently Asked Member Questions Regarding Transgender Women in DAR, #7
8 NSDAR Test Requirements – Using DNA Evidence for DAR Applications, Page 3
9 NSDAR DNA Network Committee Presentation, Slide 6

Date Motion Passed:

Chapter Name: State:

Regent Name: Address:

Regent Signature

Recording Secretary Name: Address:

Recording Secretary Signature

 Source 1

CHAPTER I

CHRONOLOGICAL HISTORY OF THE
NATIONAL SOCIETY
DAUGHTERS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION
FOUNDERS

Mary Desha, Eugenia Washington, Ellen Hardin Walworth and Mary

Smith Lockwood

ORGANIZATION

July 13, 1890: Mrs. Mary S. Lockwood of Washington, D.C., aroused by

the Sons of the American Revolution having defeated a motion to admit
women to their Society, published in The Washington Post an article titled
“Women Worthy of Honor.” This narrative included the story of Hannah
Arnett, a Patriot of the American Revolution.

July 21, 1890: Mr. William O. McDowell of Newark, NJ, a great-

grandson of Hannah Arnett and Registrar General of the S.A.R.,
published a reply in The Washington Post in which he offered to assist in
forming a society of “Daughters of the American Revolution.” The
following six women responded to McDowell’s letter: Miss Eugenia
Washington, Miss Mary Desha, Mrs. Hannah McLaren Wolff, Mrs.
Louise Knowlton Brown, Mrs. Mary Morris Hallowell and Mrs. Sarah
Agnes Rice Pryor.

July 29, 1890: First informal meeting was held at the home of Mrs.
Brown at 17th and K streets NW, with five present: Mrs. Brown, Miss
Washington, Miss Desha, Mrs. Wolff and Mrs. Ellen H. Walworth.

August 9, 1890: Another meeting was called at the Langham Hotel,

located at the northeast corner of 14th and H streets NW, the residence of
Mrs. Walworth, attended only by the hostess, Miss Washington and Miss
Desha. The three women present formulated definite plans and laid
important groundwork in the founding of the Society.

August 18, 1890: A notice appeared in The Washington Post, stating the
purposes of the proposed society and the requirements for eligibility for
membership requesting women descended from Patriots of the American
Revolution to send their names to Miss Washington. Thus initial
membership was begun and encouraged in a democratic manner.
33
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MISSION STATEMENT

The mission of the

National Society Daughters of the American Revolution
is to promote
historic preservation, education and patriotism.



As members of the National Society Daughters of the American

Revolution we must continue to assume the responsibility for the success
of our organization—to ensure that it thrives and meets its mission. To
this end, the DAR Handbook is provided to assist you in your work and
your own education about the National Society.
This 2020 edition of the DAR Handbook is formatted for easy
retrieval of information. Its binding makes it user-friendly and its index
is invaluable in searching for topics. All the information included in this
edition is intended to help each member understand the work of the
National Society. We welcome your enthusiastic participation in our
mission.
A complimentary copy of the DAR Handbook is sent to each chapter.
Personal copies may be ordered from the DAR Store in the Office of the
Corresponding Secretary General. The cost is $15 payable to the
Treasurer General, NSDAR. The most current version of the DAR
Handbook is also available free of charge on the DAR Members’ Website.

8
 Source 3

wheel, with thirteen stars above her, the whole surrounded by a rim
containing the name, The National Society of the Daughters of the
American Revolution, the motto, God, Home and Country, and the dates
1776 and 1890. The Seal of the National Society or facsimile thereof may
be used only on official documents.

Article XVIII – Insignia

SECTION 1. The official Insignia of the National Society shall be in the

form of a spinning wheel and distaff. The wheel shall be seven-
eighths of an inch in diameter and of gold, with thirteen spokes and
a field of dark blue enamel upon the rim bearing the name
DAUGHTERS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION in letters of
gold; upon the outer edge of the wheel, opposite the ends of the
spokes, are thirteen small stars which may be set with precious stones
at the discretion of the owner; underneath the wheel a golden distaff,
one-and-one-half inches long, filled with platinum or white gold flax.
Upon the back of the insignia the national number of the owner shall
be engraved, and her name may be added. The ribbon to be worn with
the Insignia shall be blue with a white edge, ribbed and watered,
following the color of the Official Sash for National Officers.

SECTION 2. The official Insignia shall be worn upon the left breast and
only at functions of the Society or its chapters or when representing
the organization or attending ceremonial occasions.

SECTION 3. The replica miniature Insignia and the Recognition Pin may
be worn on a branch bar upon any occasion.
(a) The miniature insignia may be worn on the miniature DAR
ribbon at DAR functions, in the same manner as the official
Insignia and pins.
(b) The miniature DAR Insignia may be worn on a branch bar with
the miniature insignia of other societies.
(c) The recognition pin is worn alone and may be worn on any
occasion.

SECTION 4. The Insignia, Recognition Pin and Ancestral Bars shall be

issued only by permit of the Organizing Secretary General.

SECTION 5. No words shall be written or printed above the Insignia,

except that on an official DAR Banner the Insignia may be placed in
the center with designation of National Society, state organization, or
chapter by name above, below, or around the Insignia.
39
 Source 4

Chapter and State Treasurers; Guide for Chapter Registrars;

and NSDAR Genealogy Guidelines (combining Is that Lineage
Right?, Is That Service Right and Guide for Chapter Registrar
and Application Papers, Instructions for Their Preparation).

DAR Committees

Most of the volunteer work of DAR is accomplished through a

committee system comprised of national chairs appointed by the
President General and locally appointed state and chapter chairs. The
national chairs direct, supervise and promote the activities of their
committees with the assistance of national vice chairs. DAR committees
promoting the mission of the Society include:

Historic Preservation

American Heritage: Promotes preservation of American cultural

traditions.

American History: Promotes American history by honoring significant

historical people, places, dates and events. Sponsors American History
Essay contests for students in grades 5 through 8, including home-
schooled children; Patriots of the American Revolution DAR High
School Essay Contest for students in grades 9 through12, including home-
schooled students; and recognizes Women in American History.

Commemorative Events: Identifies opportunities for commemorative

events and promotes participation in celebrations that support the
historical, educational and patriotic objectives of the Society.

DAR Genealogy Preservation: Electronically indexes/identifies the

supporting documents for DAR Applications and Supplemental
Applications.

DAR Museum Outreach: Educates members and the public about the
DAR Museum and its exhibits, programs and needs.

Genealogical Records: Collects unpublished records of a genealogical

nature that are made digitally available through in the DAR Library.
Volunteers index the over 20,000 volumes available through the DAR
Genealogical Research System (GRS).
12
 Source 5a

Application papers, the chapter First Vice Regent, Recording

Secretary or Treasurer may sign the Application or attest the
applicant’s signature.
b) If this is done, the officer signs her name followed by her office
title (i.e., First Vice Regent, Recording Secretary, or Treasurer).
4) Officers signing an Application paper shall be current officers;
endorsers are to be members in good standing of the chapter the
applicant is joining.
5) Each generation should be complete with all information for both
parents. Use full names, not initials. All dates and places shall be as
complete as possible with one copy of documentation (do not send
originals, they will not be returned) for each birth, marriage and
death date and place. The applicant must furnish documentation for
proof of her date and place of birth and her biological parents. Note:
Many short form birth certificates now issued by states do not
name the parents and cannot be used to prove lineage.
6) Documentation for all generations from the Revolutionary ancestor
to the applicant must show the lineal descent between each
generation, sufficient proof that the ancestor named is correct and the
Revolutionary Patriot’s service and place of residence during the
Revolutionary War must be proven and documented to be correct.
Data submitted as proof is subject to NSDAR standards and
interpretation and becomes the property of the National Society.
7) Since January 1, 2014, NSDAR has accepted Y-DNA evidence in
support of new member Applications and Supplemental Applications.
DNA, mtDNA and Y-DNA test results as part of a genealogical analysis
of evidence under guidelines set forth by the Genealogy Department
effective June 21, 2020 submitted along with other documentation will
be considered along with all of the other source documentation provided
to prove heritage. Y-DNA will not be considered as stand-alone proof of
lineage because while it can be used as a tool point to a family, it cannot
be used as absolute proof for an individual.
8) As of June 19, 2020, NSDAR accepts Y-DNA, Mitochondrial DNA
and Autosomal DNA for New Member and Supplemental
Applications, as outlined in the Genealogy Guidelines.
9) The applicant’s name, chapter, chapter computer code number,
ancestor’s name, generation(s) and date of submission should be placed
on the back of each piece of documentation. (Note: Do not send multiple
copies of documentation which apply to more than one generation; mark
all appropriate generations on the back of the documentation.)

Submitting a Traditional Application

1) Each Application should be accompanied by a chapter check payable
to the Treasurer General, NSDAR, in the amount of the Application
fee and current national dues. Send all completed documents to the
Office of the Registrar General, NSDAR.
53
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GUIDELINES
Using DNA Evidence for DAR Applications

Introduction

Due to advances made in the testing and interpretation of DNA results for use as evidence in
genealogical research, DNA test results can be used for evidence of lineage for DAR applications
or supplemental applications assuming that certain, specific criteria are met.

Background

There are three main types of DNA tests currently available for use in genealogical research.
1. Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is passed from a mother to all of her offspring.
2. Y-DNA is passed from a father to each of his sons.
3. Autosomal DNA is passed from both parents to each child. Each child receives a random
combination of material from each parent.

Certain relationships can be suggested or determined by studying the combinations, changes or

mutations to each type of DNA over a specific span of time.

Because of the nature of the combination of autosomal DNA from each parent to each child,
determining which strands of DNA were inherited from each parent, grandparent, great-
grandparent, etc can be an extremely complex process. As such, the testing, reporting and
interpretation of current autosomal DNA tests does not provide sufficient evidence of a specific
lineage to fit within the confines of the lineage requirements for a DAR application.

While Mitochondrial DNA is passed only through the maternal line and could, therefore, be
used to prove a specific lineage from mother to child, the slow change or mutation rate of this
type of DNA does not allow for statistically sufficient evidence of a single common ancestor
within the confines of the lineage on a DAR application (150-200 years, approximately 6-8
generations).

The standard mutation rate for Y-DNA is faster than that of mitochondrial DNA. While a variety
of tests exist that vary in complexity, the DAR has determined that the currently available level
of testing and statistical analysis does allow conclusions to be made regarding the probability of
a common single ancestor within 150-200 years (or 6-8 generations) from the individual being
tested. Therefore, Y-DNA is currently the only type of genealogy DNA test that can serve as
acceptable documentation for a DAR application when combined with traditional genealogical
evidence and documentation in the correct manner and format.

Criteria for Use on a DAR Application/Supplemental

Because the use of DNA as proof of lineage can be a very complex process, the DAR has
established very specific guidelines for the submission and evaluation of this type of
genealogical evidence. These requirements have been carefully and thoughtfully developed to
acknowledge the current level of scientific capability; respect the DAR’s existing standards for

©National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, January 2014 1

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GUIDELINES
Using DNA Evidence for DAR Applications

genealogical evidence; embrace the historical value of the DAR’s previously established
lineages; promote a consistent level of evaluation; and provide for a review process that is as
concise and accurate as possible.

 Situations when the use of DNA might be appropriate

Due to the 150-200 year timeframe (approximately 6-8 generations) at which the most
recent common ancestor can be statistically identified, DNA evidence can, in most cases,
only be used as proof of the link from the Revolutionary War ancestor to his son.

Because the study of DNA for genealogy purposes is based on the interpretation of test
results within the confines of the available traditional genealogy sources, DNA is considered
to be indirect evidence of lineage. As with any other type of indirect evidence, DNA will
only be considered as proof of lineage when direct evidence is not available. DNA evidence
must also be supported by sufficient indirect evidence to conclusively identify the most
recent common ancestor. An explanation detailing the efforts undertaken to locate direct
evidence of the relationship must be included as part of the DNA submission. This
explanation must also describe the indirect evidence that was located to support the
identification of the most recent common ancestor.

Because Y-DNA is passed only through the male line, it’s important to note that only
lineages that descend through the unbroken male line can be used as part of this process.
The use of any DNA (including Y-DNA) for genealogical purpose requires the comparison of
test results from multiple individuals representing multiple lineages. In order for this
comparison process to work within the confines of current DAR standards for proof of
lineage, at least two individuals must be tested: one to prove the new male line of descent
from the patriot through which the applicant descends and one who descends through a
male line of descent that has been previously established by the DAR through traditional,
direct genealogical evidence. This process cannot currently be used as proof for recent
generations (ie: the applicant’s father, grandfather or great-grandfather) or to establish a
new patriot ancestor for whom no previous lineage as been established for comparison.

 Candidates for DNA testing

All submissions of DNA evidence must include DNA test results for at least two males that
meet very specific criteria. The first male to be tested must be a close relative of the
applicant who descends through the same unbroken male line from the Revolutionary War
patriot. This male must share the applicant’s maiden name or her mother’s maiden name.
Potential candidates for a lineage through the applicant’s maiden name could include her
brother, father, father’s brother, paternal grandfather, and paternal grandfather’s brother;
or for a lineage through the mother’s maiden name, her mother’s father, her mother’s
brother, her mother’s brother’s son, etc.

The second male tested must be a descendant of the same Revolutionary War ancestor
through a different, unbroken male lineage that has been previously proven on a DAR

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GUIDELINES
Using DNA Evidence for DAR Applications

application or supplemental (ie: the father, brother or nephew (brother’s son) of a DAR
member). The previously verified DAR application to which this second test subject
connects must meet current DAR standards for proof of dates, places and relationships. If
the previously verified application is deficient in any of these standards, additional
documentation may be required.

 Requirements for test and results

Because the foundation of the use of Y-DNA as proof for lineage on a DAR application is the
currently available statistical analysis of such test results, the DAR will only accept Y-DNA
results that meet specific criteria for both the nature of the test and the results of the test.
The DAR will only accept lineages for which a specific set of 37 markers have been tested
and for which the results show an exact match between the two tested males on all 37 of
those markers. In addition, the outlined lineages from both tested individuals must
demonstrate that the most recent common ancestor was born within 150-200 years of the
births of the tested individuals.

 Other necessary documentation

In addition to the DNA test results and supporting indirect evidence that meet the
previously outlined criteria, the applicant must also submit the documentation to establish
the complete lineage from herself to the patriot. All relationships, apart from the one link
for which DNA is being submitted as proof, must be proven through direct evidence. No
other analyses may be submitted as proof for any other relationship on the application form.

The applicant must then provide direct evidence of her relationship with the tested male in
her lineage.

The applicant must also provide direct evidence of the relationship between the second
tested male and the member for whom the other lineage from the Revolutionary War
patriot has been previously verified. If the previously verified lineage does not meet current
DAR standards for proof of dates, places or relationships, the applicant must submit the
documentation required to fulfill those requirements.

In order to justify the statistical analysis concerning the relationships between these
individuals, and to identify the most recent common ancestor, the dates (exact or
estimated) and places of birth of both sons of the patriot must be documented using
acceptable sources.

 Format for submission

In order to facilitate an efficient and effective review process for DNA evidence, the DAR has
created a DNA Report form that must be completed and submitted with copies of all
required documents. Any DNA submission that is not complete, does not meet current
guidelines, includes inconsistencies in documentation or logic, or is not submitted in the
correct format will not be reviewed.

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GUIDELINES
Using DNA Evidence for DAR Applications

Disclaimers

The DAR has created these guidelines to facilitate the review process of DNA evidence under
current DAR standards of proof. In order to ensure the successful review of these materials, all
applicants, members or researchers should make note of the following disclaimers:

1. All materials must be submitted to the DAR in their original form and in the proper
format. The DAR reserves the right to evaluate any interpretations of evidence from
other organizations, groups or administrators and to refuse acceptance of these
interpretations if they do not conform to the current DAR guidelines for submission of
DNA evidence.

2. The DAR will continue to evaluate scientific advances in the field of DNA research. The
DAR reserves the right to make changes or modifications to this policy at any time based
on changes in testing procedures, variances in the interpretation of results, or re-
evaluation of the statistical analysis of suggested relationships.

3. As with all previously established DAR lineages, any lineage established through the use
of DNA evidence will be subject to re-evaluation at any future date based on the
availability of new or additional documentary evidence that may become available, or
due to changes or modifications in these guidelines for the use of DNA evidence for DAR
Applications.

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DAR POLICY STATEMENT AND BACKGROUND

Using DNA Evidence for DAR Applications

Effective January 1, 2014, DAR will begin accepting Y-DNA evidence in support of new member
applications and supplemental applications as one element in a structured analysis. This
analysis will use a fill in the blank form found on the DAR website.

Policy Background

DAR’s decision not to accept DNA evidence in the past was based on two factors. The first
factor was that the science was not good enough to point to a specific ancestor with any
reasonable level of confidence, but only to a family group. The second factor involved
attempting to overcome this inaccuracy. This resulted in the need for multiple (perhaps a dozen
or more) DNA tests, each of which would have to be accompanied by a submitted and verified
lineage. This mountain of documentation would then become one element in an analysis.

Scientific Background

All humans have two types of DNA within each of their cells. These types are Mitochondrial-
DNA and Chromosomal-DNA.

Mitochondrial-DNA (Mt-DNA) is found in the mitochondria within the cell. All Mt-DNA from the
male is lost during fertilization. All of our Mt-DNA comes from our mother.

Chromosomal-DNA is found in the nucleus of the cell and consists of 23 pairs of coiled strands
called chromosomes. Approximately half of the chromosomal-DNA comes from our father and
half from our mother. Half of your father’s chromosomal-DNA comes from his father and half
from his mother. This is true for both parents for all generations and figuring out what part of a
chromosome came from which ancestor is an extremely complicated process.

The 23rd pair of chromosomes (designated X and Y) determines the sex of the individual. If a
person is X-X they are female; if they are X-Y they are male. A male cannot receive any Y-DNA
from his mother because she does not have any. For this reason all the complication of
determining which parent provided the chromosomal-DNA is eliminated when considering only
Y-DNA. When discussing Chromosomal-DNA, but not including the sex chromosomes, we use
the term Autosomal-DNA.

Before any DNA is passed from a parent to an offspring it must be duplicated. Sometimes
during this duplication process mistakes are made. These mistakes are called mutations. For
most of the chromosomal-DNA there is a 50-50 chance that a parent may pass the mutated

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DAR POLICY STATEMENT AND BACKGROUND

Using DNA Evidence for DAR Applications

DNA to their offspring. It is 100% certain that a male offspring received the mutated Y-DNA
from his male parent (women have no Y-DNA).

Different parts of the chromosomes mutate at different rates. By comparing the mutations at
specific locations (called markers) of two different persons we can begin to determine how
closely related they might be. Since mutations are passed from parent to child, the more
mutations that two people have in common the more likely they share a common ancestry—
this is the basis of genetic genealogy.

Genealogical DNA Testing

Most companies in the business of providing genealogical DNA testing offer a range of tests.
The tests include, but are not limited to, Mt-DNA, Autosomal-DNA and Y-DNA. Due to the
differing mutation rates and analytical difficulties each test has drastically different uses. Within
each test there are usually several levels of accuracy offered.

Normally Mt-DNA is sampled (tested) at 1150 out a possible 16569 marker locations. However,
Mt-DNA mutates in a manner that does not allow its use for genealogical purposes and will not
be discussed any further.

Autosomal-DNA is tested at more than 500,000 out of nearly three billion available marker
locations across the 22 pair of autosomal chromosomes. Autosomal-DNA is a relatively new test
that offers tremendous opportunities in the future, but its complexity limits its current
genealogical usefulness. The genealogy staff’s DNA study group will continue to monitor
developments with this test.

Currently, Y-DNA is tested at between 12 and 111 marker locations depending on the company
and desired level of accuracy. Y-DNA is the most attractive test for genealogical purposes
because of the lack of complexity and its mutation rate. Currently the 37 marker Y-DNA test is
one of the best tests available on the basis of cost and the recently improved accuracy.
Scientific advances have increased the accuracy of the 37 marker test to the point where it
might be usable by DAR applicants.

Genealogical Use

The current accuracy of the 37 marker Y-DNA test does not allow for positively identifying
descent from a specific ancestor, but does provide a high degree of certainty (95%) that two
living men share a common ancestor at more than 150 years but less than 200 years, if they

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DAR POLICY STATEMENT AND BACKGROUND

Using DNA Evidence for DAR Applications

match at all 37 marker locations. Based on this increased accuracy of the 37 marker Y-DNA test,
we are proposing a structured procedure by which DAR applicants may use DNA evidence in an
analysis submitted with an application or supplemental application.

Structured Presentation

To submit DNA evidence on a DAR application an applicant will have to meet all the below
listed criteria. Although these criteria are restrictive, they acknowledge the current level of the
science, respect DAR’s existing standards, protect the reputation of its verified lineages, address
the difficult to prove child or grandchild of the patriot link, allow the verification of a paper
without the need for a degree in genetics, save the genealogy staff from a potential tidal wave
of paperwork.

The applicant will have to address all eight of the criteria that follow to submit Y-DNA.

1. The applicant will have to submit documentation to complete the lineage on her application
in normal fashion with one exception. There will be one unproven father-son link for which she
is submitting the Y-DNA evidence.

2. At the point where the applicant cannot prove the father-son link, one of her tested male’s
will have a lineage with a previously proven link between the same father and a different son.
The birth date of this father will have to be more than 150 years but less than 200 years earlier
than the birth date of the younger of the two tested males. This time frame requirement is
based on the statistics of the test. Given the expected ages of the two tested males choosing
the younger or the older will have little consequence. However, this 150-200 year time frame
coincides well with the ages of the children and grandchildren of the patriot—consistently the
hardest generational links to prove on an application. This test should not be used in an
attempt to prove the fathers, grandfathers, or great grandfathers of the applicant.

3. This process cannot be used for new ancestors at this time because they would have no
proven lineage with which to compare the Y-DNA supported lineage.

4. The Y-DNA test results will be submitted as part of an analysis. Overall, an analysis is a last
resort. The applicant or her proxies should have conducted a reasonably exhaustive search to
find direct evidence of the needed relationship. The applicant will have to list everywhere she
has searched as part of the structured presentation. A search of online sources only is not a
reasonably exhaustive search. Traditional direct evidence of the generational link is always
better and preferred to analysis with or without Y-DNA evidence.

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DAR POLICY STATEMENT AND BACKGROUND

Using DNA Evidence for DAR Applications

5. The surnames of the two tested males and the maiden name of the applicant or her mother
will have to be the same (with obvious spelling variations understood).

6. One of the two males tested will have to be a close male relative of the applicant. Usually this
male will be her father, brother, grandfather, uncle or grandfather’s brother. This man will then
have the same direct lineage to the patriot as the applicant. The applicant will have to submit
the results of this man’s 37 marker Y-DNA test and potentially a document of two to connect
this man to her lineage..

7. The second male tested will have to have a different, but still direct lineage to the patriot—
that has been previously proven to the DAR. This second male would likely be the brother,
father or grandfather of a previous applicant or any of their male offspring. The lineage of this
second male cannot include any analyses, and if necessary must be brought up to current DAR
standards with additional documentation. The applicant will also have to submit the results of
this second male’s 37 marker Y-DNA test, a signed statement from the man indicating his
acknowledgement of participation in the application process, documentation linking him to this
previously proven lineage. This is the most difficult criteria of the analysis and the one most
pivotal to its success.

8. The applicant’s two submitted 37 marker Y-DNA tests will have to have identical results. The
37 markers we require are the 37 markers specified on the member’s website. If the males
were tested at more than 37 markers we only need the results of the specified 37markers. If
the males were tested at less than 37 markers or not the specified markers, they will have to
upgrade their existing test or be re-tested. In all cases the two tested males will have to have
identical results at all 37 specified markers.

As previously stated this is an extremely restrictive set of conditions. However, what results is a
comparison between a known lineage (i.e. previously proven to DAR) and a proposed lineage
(the applicant’s current submission) with the high degree of certainty for accepting this link
arising from the fact that the Y-DNA test indicates that the two tested males are related within
200 years with 95% confidence.

Form and Instructions

This structured presentation will be done using a fill in the blank form that will be found on the
Members’ Website. The form will consist of seven sections on four separate pages. These pages
will be filled out, printed out, signed, and submitted with the application.

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DAR POLICY STATEMENT AND BACKGROUND

Using DNA Evidence for DAR Applications

Section 1—will contain the applicant’s name and national number. The name blank will be one
line and the national number just six characters.

Section 2—will contain a two line box where the applicant will have to state what she is trying
to prove.

Section 3—will contain a ten-line box for the applicant to enter all the locations she has
searched and resources used.

Section 4—will contain blanks to enter the names of the two men the applicant had tested.
There will be a one line blank available for each entry with her nearest male relative being
number one and the second tested male number two. This number (one or two) will also be
written on submitted Y-DNA results. There will also be one line for listing the national number
for the previously proven lineage that links the second male tested to the same patriot found
on the current application.

Section 5—will contain a one line space for the applicant’s signature and the date.

Section 6—will contain a modified “page2/page 3” to record the lineage and sources of the
second tested male. This section will be spread over two pages to accommodate most potential
lineages. As stated above this is a previously proven lineage so a national number is the
principal source. We are not updating this lineage, but simply making sure it is valid by bringing
it up to current standards.

Section 7—will contain a pre-printed statement about the DAR application process, the use of
Y-DNA evidence, and that the signer is acknowledging his participation in the process. There will
also be a one line space for this second tested male to sign and date the form. This will be the
fourth page.

Staff Training

The staff will have to be trained to recognize that Y-DNA evidence is being submitted, and how
to properly evaluate it. This training will be conducted during normal genealogy staff meetings
which will lessen the cost and impact to the verification of applications and supplemental
application.

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DAR POLICY STATEMENT AND BACKGROUND

Using DNA Evidence for DAR Applications

Important Considerations

The DAR has accepted paternity tests for many years and this will not cease even if DNA
evidence is submitted. A DNA based paternity uses a special set of marker locations in a
modified autosomal test. This test usually compares the DNA of two living persons and achieves
certainties of 99.9999% or better. This is not a normal service provided by genetic genealogy
testing companies.

Although DNA testing is a novelty and some believe it may be the future of genealogy, we do
not want it to replace traditional genealogy on DAR applications if there is any other
alternative.

Since we are only discussing Y-DNA testing and women do not have a Y-chromosome we can
establish father-son links, but not father-daughter, mother-daughter or mother-son links.

Most genetic genealogy companies report their results in terms of generations. However,
generations cannot be measured in a scientific experiment, but must be calculated by assuming
an arbitrary number of years per generation. We reject this approach entirely. Our statistics
indicate that if two men match 37 markers exactly they have a common ancestor within 200
years with 95 % confidence.

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DNA TEST REQUIREMENTS

Using DNA Evidence for DAR Applications

There are numerous DNA testing companies that provide services or tests for genealogical
purposes. Family Tree DNA (www.familytreedna.com) is a company that focuses solely on
using DNA for genealogy and offers a Y-DNA37 test that includes the designated marker set and
meets the reporting criteria outlined in Using DNA Evidence for DAR Applications.

Not all testing companies perform the level of test or provide you with the detailed reporting
that is required by the DAR. While test results from other companies that offer DNA testing for
genealogical purposes (including Ancestry.com) might be acceptable under current DAR
standards and guidelines, it is the responsibility of the applicant/member to ensure that the
tests that she orders and submits meet current DAR requirement. Any applicant/member
choosing to order and submit test results from any of other DNA testing service, must be
especially mindful of the testing and reporting requirements specified by the DAR when
determining which testing company to utilize.

Submission of Test Results:

Most DNA testing companies report the results of any Y-DNA test to the test subjects in the
form of a report that lists the specific markers tested and the resulting value for each marker.
While this report is often transmitted to the test subject in a digital format—through the test
subject’s personal account at the testing company website—a hard copy of this report can
usually be printed directly from the test subject’s account. An original, unaltered printed copy
of this report must be submitted with the DNA Report form.

In addition, each test subject must be willing to comply with any requests that he may receive
from the DAR to join any specified Y-DNA Group or Project. Such requests will be
communicated via email directly to the email address provided for each test subject on the
DNA Report form. Admission to such groups may be by invitation only. Only the group
administrator(s) will have access to the test subject’s information. The group administrator will
be a DAR staff member who will ensure that the information is restricted from public access.
Each test subject (and his test results) may be removed from the group when the review
process for the application or supplemental has been completed. Any information derived
from the test results submitted to this group(s) will be used only for the purpose of establishing
and evaluating a lineage for a DAR application or supplemental application.

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How To Be Involved!
 Order DNA tests for yourself and  Once your DNA results are
your relatives. Any combination of available on FTDNA, join the
testing is welcome: Autosomal NSDAR DNA Project!
(atDNA), mitochondrial (mtDNA)  From FTDNA page, select
and Y-DNA “Projects” and the “Join a Project”.
 DAR members receive preferred Type “NSDAR” in the search box,
pricing from FamilyTreeDNA click the project link and then
(FTDNA). To order test kits, go to select “Join”.
www.familytreedna.com
 If using a vendor other than
FamilyTreeDNA, upload your test
results to FTDNA. Go to the
FamilyTreeDNA home page, click
“DNA Tests” in the upper left hand
corner, then select “Autosomal
Transfer” from the menu.

DNA Network Committee 2018