DAR celebrates constitution with Ringing of Bells

By BRANDON KLEIN

bklein@vindy.com

CANFIELD

The Daughters of the American Revolution’s Mahoning Chapter and others let freedom ring – almost literally.

About 30 people attended Bells Across America that encouraged Mahoning Valley residents, churches and schools to ring bells with the rest of the nation at 4 p.m. Thursday to recognize and honor the U.S. Constitution’s signing. That signing was completed at 4 p.m. in 1787 at Independence Hall in Philadelphia - more than 350 miles away from the gazebo on Village Green in Canfield at U.S. Route 224 and state Route 46.

“Without the Constitution we would not have the freedom that we have today,” said Marty Campana, a member of local DAR chapter, organized April 18, 1893. “It formed what our country is today.”

Some attendees came out wearing the traditional attire of the period when the historical document was signed. The event led with the national anthem and Pledge of Allegiance. Mayor Bernie Kosar Sr. presented a proclamation to commemorate the occasion. When the time came, people started ringing the bells they brought with them.

“It [the Constitution] was written with future generations in mind,” said Carol Hubbard, another member of the chapter, noting that it’s why the document has lasted so long.

The event is part of Constitution Week, which runs through Wednesday and is considered by DAR members one of the nation’s least-known official observances.

In 1955, DAR members petitioned Congress to set aside that week to be dedicated to the observance. On Aug. 2, 1956, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the resolution into law.

This is the first year of participating in ringing bells for the more than 120-year-old nonprofit and nonpolitical women’s volunteer service organization. The organization has 79 members, said Dolores Ronzi, the head of the chapter.

Though the chapter usually meets the second Monday of each month, it will have its next meeting Monday. Any woman 18 years or older, regardless of race, religion or ethnic background, who can prove lineal descent from a patriot of the American Revolution is eligible to join. The chapter will also host a research session Oct. 3 for Valley women to determine if they have an Revolutionary War Patriot ancestor.

“Our organization is very patriotic,” Ronzi said.

Registration is required to attend the meeting and research session. To register, contact Marty Campana at mcampana@northwood.com.