By Matt Mackinder
Clarkston News Editor

The Jeremiah Clark Chapter is a newly formed branch of the Michigan Society Sons of the American Revolution (SAR), “dedicated to promoting patriotism, preserving American history, and supporting better education for the nation’s youth,” according to a press release from the chapter.
The chapter was established after the idea to create one in the Clarkston/Waterford/Lake Orion area was introduced by Rod Wilson and David Suzor of the Oaks chapter.
Back in Oct. 2022, a meeting was held to discuss the establishment of a new chapter, followed by a December gathering where the attendees signed the application for charter. Members present at the meetings, showing overwhelming support, unanimously agreed to name the chapter the Jeremiah Clark Chapter. This name honors the patriarch of the Clark family, whose contributions and legacy are etched into the history of the local community and who the city of Clarkston is named after. Clark fought in the American Revolutionary War to secure our nation’s independence, making it fitting that he and his family settled in Independence Township.
The Michigan Society SAR officially granted the charter in Feb. 2023.
The chapter has also announced the following programs: Clark Family Legacy Project – The chapter will be launching a project to research and document the history of the Clark family; Wreaths Across America – This program honors veterans by placing wreaths on their graves during the holiday season; Boy Scouts and Eagle Scouts – The new chapter will be working closely with local Boy Scouts and Eagle Scouts to promote patriotism and educate the youth about American history; Youth Awards & Contests – The chapter will be organizing a variety of contests and awards to encourage youth participation in patriotic activities, including essay contests, oratorical contests, and more; Genealogy Workshops – Looking at the past, the chapter will be offering genealogy workshops to help individuals trace their ancestry and connect with their American heritage. These workshops will provide education on research methods, documentation, and preservation; Patriot Grave Marking – The chapter will be participating in patriot grave marking events to honor the memory of the men and women who served during the American Revolution; America 250 – In 2026, the United States will celebrate its 250th birthday, marking the anniversary of the American Revolution. The chapter will actively participate in commemorating and endorsing this significant event.
The chapter welcomes all those interested in SAR and the chapter’s objectives to join them at their monthly meetings, the third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at Buck Shots Bar & Grill, 7048 Gateway Park Drive, Clarkston.
For more on the new SAR, visit jeremiahclarkchapter.org or at facebook.com/jeremiahclarkchapter.