Are you looking to document Revolutionary War era service for a DAR or SAR patriot from New York?
First all, realize it might be a challenge. New York City and Long Island were both occupied during the War. As a result, New Yorkers were supported the American cause were sometimes forced to swear allegiance to the British.
What does this mean for your research? Pay significant attention to the ancestor’s “last act.” An ancestor who joined the militia in early 1776 will be disqualified from being considered a DAR or SAR patriot if they later swore allegiance to the British – simply because there was no way to verify their true sentiments.
Still ready to dive in? Begin with Deb Duay’s “Sources of Revolutionary War Service”. And keep your eyes on a new project from the DAR library documenting service in British occupied areas.
Happy hunting! Questions? Contact us.