Sporting the youngest population in Lee County with a median age of 32, the City of Fort Myers is also home to the historic winter residences of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford.

Regent

          The Caloosahatchee Chapter was organized February 22, 1927.  Miss Kate Roberts was the organizing Regent.  Mina Miller Edison, wife of Thomas Alva Edison, was also instrumental in organizing the Chapter.  She was Chaplain General, Thirty-Second Continental Congress. 

     Mrs. Harvie Heitman became the first Regent (1928-1930).  She accepted the position only if the Associate Regent, Mrs. Al. C. Williams (1930-1932), would be willing to chair the meetings and fund-raising events while she was on a trip around the world with her husband.

     A few years later the Florida State Conference was held at the Royal Palm Hotel in Fort Myers with additional activities being held at the First Presbyterian Church.  It is interesting to note that two young sisters sang and danced during one program.  They later became members of the Caloosahatchee Chapter.  One sister, Barbara B. Mann, is still an active member.  She was presented with “The Certificate of Award for Excellence in Community Service” on February 22, 2002 when the Caloosahatchee Chapter celebrated their Diamond Jubilee.

    The Chapter has placed seven historical markers in the Fort Myers area.  In 2002 the Chapter established a $10,000 endowed scholarship for non-traditional American history majors pursuing degrees in American History.

     The Chapter continually strives to preserve patriotic ambiance for present and future generations through many activities.  Recent recognition certificates earned  by the Chapter include Outstanding Service to DAR Schools, Participation in The Millennium Forest, Outstanding Achievement in Public Relations, Outstanding Achievement in Americanism and DAR Manual for Citizenship, and Outstanding Achievement in Library Donations. 

      Chapter meetings are held on the second Friday of each month at 10:30 a.m.  Meetings are followed by a program and luncheon. For reservations, call Sarah Rayburn (239) 542-3966.

Martha Louise Hershey Raugh
Past Regent