THROUGH THE YEARS – Our History

Susie Rebecca Gentry, Organizing Regent, founded Old Glory, the ninth TSDAR chapter, in October 1897 in Franklin, Tennessee. Along with fifteen charter members, Miss Gentry chose the chapter name based on a family story about John Paul Jones’ naval battle with the ship Serapis. Family legend said when the Flag was struck and heading downward to the sea a sailor rescued it, saying, “Old Glory shall never be lowered on land or on sea.” The founding motto of the chapter was, “Our Glorious Banner! the Hope of the Free!”      … Read More

Miss Gentry’s Legacy

Miss Susie Gentry, the founder of Old Glory Chapter NSDAR, was born July 31, 1860, in Shelbyville (Bedford County), Tennessee, to Dr. Watson Meredith Gentry and Martha Jones Gentry. Following the Civil War, the family moved to Franklin. In 1870, they made their home at Maplehurst, on the corner of 11th and West Main.  … Read More


Since 1897: A History of Service