A description from “History of Katahdin Chapter, DAR, 1921-1999” by Dorothy Brown and Janet Gifford begins: “Where the sand hills rise slowly to the north and the Wildcat range of bluffs fence in the south, the North Platte River rushes on through the fertile valley. Because of the altitude, the summer nights are always cool and refreshing. In the winter the kindly Chinook winds melt the snow and bring a touch of spring to the air. Through this picturesque valley which is at the edge of Goshen Hole, the Oregon Trail winds its way, passing cautiously among the rugged declivities of Mitchell Pass. To the northwest, the great fossil beds of agate reveal snatches of the story of that vague period called prehistoric times.

In this valley on May 26, 1921, twenty-seven women met under the direction of Mrs. W. F. Kehoe organized what was to become Katahdin Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution. They were granted a charter on January 28, 1922.”

Katahdin is a Penobscot Indian name meaning “highest or greatest mountain.” The namesake is the highest mountain in Maine, a part of the Appalachian Mountains at elevation of 5,270 feet. “Scotts Bluff is the celebrated land mark of the Oregon Trail period and long regarded as the highest point in the State of Nebraska. Therefore, “Katahdin” was chosen as the name of these Daughters of the American Revolution.”

Katahdin Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) meet at Gering Civic Center, 1050 M Street (renamed Oregon Trail Road), Gering, NE 69341. They meet on the third Wednesday, January through December with no meetings scheduled during July and August. For membership information, please e-mail Elva Johnson

The meetings are planned as brunch or luncheon with program subject: Historical, Educational, Inspirational; one evening meeting with a guest, and one afternoon meeting for Annual Awards Day to honor the Good Citizens and American History Essay participants and winners. Included for Awards Tea are sponsors, teachers, students and parents. After the ceremony, cake, punch, coffee, mints & nuts are served by the Katahdin officers. A photo op is also offered with local newspaper and TV reporters invited.

Katahdin Chapter has participated in a contest sponsored by North Platte Valley Museum (NPVM) entitled: “Christmas Trees Along the Trail” whereby entrants decorate a Christmas tree at the NPVM. Each tree has a voting box ($1.00 per vote) and winners are announced at the close of the contest. Katahdin has entered this contest (4 years) scoring second place in 2007. There is a cash award presented to the winners.

Katahdin Chapter during the holidays (November and December) compile list of Daughter members who have been unable to attend. An active Daughter assembles a basket with useable items; then delivers her basket to a Daughter from the prepared list. This has been well a received activity for last two years.