The Shelby Chapter DAR was organized in 1897, seven years after the National DAR was organized. Thirteen women born of pioneering ancestors and with high enthusiasm met February 5, 1897, at the home of Mrs. Abbie Wardlow Scudder in Shelbyville and formed the 8th Chapter in the State. We were admitted to the National Society under their hand and seal February 17, 1897. Our National Chapter number is 3-073-TN.
When the time came to name our chapter, of course, all 13 members
thought of their illustrious ancestors' grand old name which caused a
bit of confusion. So it was decided to honor the name of a really great
patriot, Colonel Isaac Shelby, whom we all claim. Born in North
Carolina, died in Kentucky, Isaac Shelby played a prominent role in the
development of Middle Tennessee. The memory of this patriot has been
perpetuated in the naming of a county, Shelby, the town of Shelbyville,
and by this group of women naming their DAR Chapter, "Shelby."
Since its organization, the Shelby Chapter has tried to perpetuate the memory and spirit of the men and women who achieved American Independence by the acquisition and protection of historical spots and the erection of monuments; by the encouragement of historical research; by the preservation of documents, relics, and the records of individual services of revolutionary soldiers and patriots, and by the promotion of celebrations of all patriotic anniversaries; to foster true patriotism and love of country, and to encourage in our young people a love for, and a pride in, our State and a knowledge of its history and its laws.