At the request of the Arkansas Society, Colonial Dames 17th Century, Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchison has proclaimed October as Colonial Heritage Month in the state, a news release said.
"Colonial Heritage Month recalls the first courageous settlers who arrived in America and determined the direction for the formation of our country. CDXVIIC members, by virtue of their lineal descent from those early arrivals, feel an obligation to work for the preservation of the priceless legacy these early arrivals left to American citizens," the release said.
"CDXVIIC continues to convey the true meaning of the inheritance by reminding all that our privilege to live in a free country has stemmed from 'loving our country, obeying its laws, respecting its flag and defending it against all enemies,'" it said.
CDXVIIC is an organization of women who are at least 18 years old and are lineal descendants of an ancestor who lived and served prior to 1701 in one of the Original Colonies in the geographical area of the present United States of America. Members are "devoted to preserving the memory of those who settled in the United States of America prior to 1701."
"The work of the society is dedicated to the preservation of historic sites and records, promotion of heraldry and coats of arms and support of charitable projects, patriotism and education. Through these and many other activities, members acknowledge and honor those individuals whose enduring legacy of virtue, courage and patriotism formed this great nation," the release said.
The National Society CDXVIIC unites over 11,000 members in 45 state societies and one international society in Canada.
The Col. John Washington Chapter CDXVIIC meets five times a year alternating between Benton, Hot Springs and Hot Springs Village. For information about CDXVIIC, email Chapter President Jones at [email protected]. Guests are always welcomed at the meetings.
