Who is eligible to join the Sons of the American Revolution?

Any male at least 18 years of age who can prove lineal descent from a patriot ancestor who actively supported American independence between April 19, 1775 and November 26, 1783. Open to men of any race, religion, or ethnic background.

Can a father and son join the SAR together?

Yes. Boys under 18 can join the SAR as Junior Members using the same patriot ancestor as their father or grandfather. A father and son can apply together and be inducted at the same chapter meeting — same night, same ceremony.

Where does the Robert Forsyth Chapter SAR meet?

The Robert Forsyth Chapter meets the second Thursday of every month at Golden Corral, 2025 Market Place Blvd, Cumming, GA 30041. Dinner at 6:00 PM, meeting at 7:00 PM. Visitors always welcome.

Who was Robert Forsyth?

Robert Forsyth (c.1754–1794) was a Captain of Light Dragoons under General Henry Lee. In 1789 President Washington appointed him the first U.S. Marshal for Georgia. On January 11, 1794 he was killed in Augusta — the first federal officer killed in the line of duty in American history.

America 250 is the national commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the United States, culminating July 4, 2026. The Robert Forsyth Chapter SAR is actively participating in Georgia and Southeast regional events.

What are the annual dues?

Annual dues are $95, due November 1st each year. Renew online at gasocietysar.org/register.

Is Mike Rowe a member of the SAR?

Yes. SAR President General John Dodd personally inducted Mike Rowe, his father, and his producer into the SAR during a recording of Mike Rowe's podcast (episode 364).

Education · Grades 9-12 · Writing

George S. & Stella M. Knight Essay Contest

The SAR invites high school students to write an original 800–1,200 word essay on the American Revolution, the Declaration of Independence, or the framing of the U.S. Constitution. Contest deadline: December 1 every year.

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Eligibility

The contest is open to U.S. citizens and legal residents in grades 9–12 attending home schools, public, parochial, or private high schools. Students must enter through an SAR chapter near their residence; in areas without participating chapters, students can enter at the state level by contacting the state society.

How to Participate

Students submit an original 800–1,200 word essay focused on an event, person, philosophy, or ideal related to the American Revolution, Declaration of Independence, or the framing of the U.S. Constitution. Topics must be based on original research. Essays are judged on:

Historical accuracy
Clarity and organization
Grammar and spelling
Proper documentation

Contest Structure, Rules and Deadlines

The contest is conducted in three phases: the local chapter level, the state society level, and the national level.

Only one entry per student is allowed per contest year.
Full rules and application forms for students and sponsoring SAR members are available below.
Deadlines vary by location, so contact the chapter for details. The Robert Forsyth Chapter deadline is December 1 every year.

About the Contest

The George S. and Stella M. Knight Essay Contest was originally established and named in honor of President Calvin Coolidge, who won a local SAR essay contest while a student at Amherst. It was reestablished in 1988 by Compatriot McCarthy DeMere and renamed in 1995 in honor of George and Stella Knight’s generous gift to the SAR to support the contest. The program gives freshman, sophomore, junior, and senior students an opportunity to explore events that shaped American history.

Forms & Official Rules

Application Form (PDF)

Official NSSAR Contest Rules (PDF)

Contact

Questions About This Program?

Students and teachers: contact the Robert Forsyth Chapter to enter the essay contest or confirm this year’s deadline.

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