A Proud History

Highlights of the Indiana Society’s Activities since 1896

1896-1930s

  • Sixteen women organized the Society in 1896 to study early Indiana history, collect Bible records and save early embroidered samplers.
  • The Indiana Society contributed to patriotic memorials in Indiana and in Washington, D.C., and raised funds for preservation of the NSCDA national headquarters, as well as other buildings in Indiana.
  • Provided history materials for Indiana schools.
  • Published a book about our early Indiana history.

1940s-1960s

  • Patriotic service activities financially benefited the Indian Nurse Scholarships.
  • During WW2 Dames created “Bundles for Britain”, furnished Service Centers for servicemen, and sold war bonds.
  • In the 1950-1960s Dames assisted with the Indiana Veterans Hospital, placed historical markers along significant Indiana highways.
  • Began preserving numerous properties around Indiana, including the Lenz House in New Harmony.

1970s-1990s

  • The Patriotic Service Committee welcomed new citizens, made donations to hospital ships during the Vietnam War.
  • Dames assumed care of the Toll House and a roadside marker along Michigan Road.
  • Dames contributed early period furnishings and a significant silk dress to the Indianapolis Museum of Art.
  • In the 1980s-1990s Dames supported restoration and furnishing efforts at the Lanier Mansion in Madison, Indiana as well as other Indiana landmarks.

1990s-2010s

  • 1992 Colonial Columns newsletter was created to inform the membership about activities and fundraising.
  • 1996 focused on the Centennial Celebration: Dames reviewed the Society’s minute books and records to complete the Society’s first historical Register 1896-1996.
  • Numerous national offices were held by Indiana Dames.
  • National NSCDA officers attend our Society’s events in Indiana.

2010s-2020s

  • The Society continued to focus on historic preservation of buildings, the Lenz House & Lanier Mansion; antique furniture was purchased and donated to the Indianapolis Museum of Art.
  • Our initial website increased visibility of our Society, while numerous Indiana Dames served the Society on the national level.
  • The Society’s mission continues today “to further appreciation of our national heritage through historic preservation, patriotic service and educational projects.” Dames of all ages remain committed to fulfilling the objects of the Society: to collect and preserve historic manuscripts, traditions, and relics.