On February 4, 1896, in Decatur, Illinois, fifteen women met at the home of Miss Ewing, to organize a local chapter of the DAR. Mrs. S.H. Kerfoot, Illinois State Regent, who was in attendance, called the meeting to order. Myra Belle Ewing was a "leading spirit" in the organization of the Decatur Chapter (later named Stephen Decatur Chapter, in honor of the gallant naval hero, Commodore Stephen Decatur, who fought in the War of 1812). Miss Ewing served as first regent of the group 1896-1898, and served as regent again from 1909 to 1911. Her patriot was Captain John Carter, soldier and commissioned officer, from Canaan Pointe, Norwalk, CT. Her many DAR activities included attendance at numerous national meetings and close association with many national leaders of the society.

Pictured left to right:
Bonnie Wingfield, Historian; Chloe Hoaglin, District III Director; Thelma Tuggle, Chaplain; Ann Irwin,
2nd Vice Regent; Joyce Hinshaw, State Regent; Cheri Hunter, Regent; Ellen Crump 1st Vice Regent; Jane Hooe, State Regent Elect.


                        
       Honorary Marker                          Myra Belle Ewing Marker
                                                      with white orchid

The Honorary Marker reads:

STEPHEN DECATUR CHAPTER
NATIONAL SOCIETY DAUGHTERS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION
ORGANIZED FEBRUARY 4, 1896
as
Decatur Chapter
HONORS THEIR ORGANIZING REGENT
MISS MYRA BELLE EWING
PLAQUE PLACED 2003


A reception was held at St. John's Lutheran Church with the
Stephen Decatur Chapter NSDAR
Honorary Regents serving as hostesses.


Honorary Regents pictured left to right:
Margaret Jarvis, Claire Harris, Ruth Kinser,
Juanita Ballance,Carol Williams, June Page & Chloe Hoaglin




SOME OF THE VISITORS AT MARKING