Four members of the Jonathan Sheppard Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) from Wirt County recently took part in the West Virginia DAR State Conference held April 11–13 in Bridgeport.
Representing the chapter were Regent Gloria Batten, Treasurer Shirley McCoy, Recording Secretary Cherokee Wilkey, and Registrar Barbara Corbitt. Throughout the three-day event, they attended official meetings and participated in leadership development workshops aimed at strengthening the organization’s mission and outreach.
One of the most memorable moments from the conference was the Quilts of Valor ceremony, where ten U.S. military veterans were honored for their service. Among those recognized was Cherokee Wilkey, who received a quilt in tribute to her time in the U.S. Navy. The presentation was a heartfelt reminder of DAR’s ongoing dedication to supporting veterans.
Chapter Regent Gloria Batten was also recognized for her dedication, receiving a chapter regent pin and a certificate marking her successful completion of the DAR’s official member training course.
The Jonathan Sheppard Chapter is the newest addition to the West Virginia DAR, having been officially confirmed on March 5, 2024. The chapter is named in honor of Jonathan Sheppard, a Revolutionary War soldier and one of the early founders of Wirt County.
Sheppard’s life is deeply tied to both local and national history. Born in 1758 in New Mecklenburg, Frederick County, Virginia (now Shepherdstown, West Virginia), he enlisted in the Revolutionary War in July 1775. Captured by British forces during the Battle of Fort Washington, he was sent to England as a prisoner before later returning through a prisoner exchange.
His service didn’t end there — Sheppard re-enlisted, taking part in key moments such as the defense of Fort Pitt and the decisive Siege of Yorktown. He and his wife Martha are buried in a small family cemetery on Garfield Road in Palestine, not far from where his original cabin once stood.
The legacy of Jonathan Sheppard now lives on through the efforts of the local DAR chapter bearing his name. The organization encourages women age 18 and older who can trace their lineage to a Revolutionary War patriot to consider joining their mission of historic preservation, education, and patriotic service.
Anyone interested in learning more about membership or the activities of the Jonathan Sheppard Chapter can contact any current member for more information.
With deep roots in American history and a strong commitment to honoring those who served, the Wirt County DAR chapter continues to grow and make a meaningful impact in their community.
