ABOUT US | Stephen Holston Chapter SAR

About Us

Our chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution honors patriots of the Revolution by preserving history, promoting patriotism, and inspiring future generations through education, fellowship, and service.

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Our Name-Sake,
Stephen Holston

Stephen Holston was a key figure in early American frontier history. He was chief surveyor of the 1748 Patton Expedition and acquired settlement rights to land in the Valleys of the New River and Holston River (later named after him). Holston is believed to have come from a German Holsteiner family, not Danish as sometimes claimed.

Holston lived briefly at the headspring of the Holston River, selling the land to James Davis, who later built a plantation. His name evolved from “Holstein” to “Holston” over time. His life also included exploration, having canoed the Holston to Natchez, Mississippi. Holston played a significant role in various military campaigns, including the Battle of Point Pleasant and the Battle of Guilford Courthouse during the Revolutionary War, where he earned the rank of Captain.

Holston lived his final years in Grainger County, Tennessee, where he passed away. His legacy is tied to his pioneering role in the settlement and development of the Holston River area.

A more detailed biography of Stephen Holston can be found here:

BIOGRAPHY

The Chapter

We are the local face, the so-called feet on the street, of the SAR. We have 140 members, and most SAR programs start with us! Founded in 1976, the organization is dedicated to preserving and sharing the stories of patriotism, courage, sacrifice, tragedy, and triumph of all the men and women who fought for American independence. These stories, reflecting humanity’s eternal struggle against tyranny, are timeless and aim to inspire and strengthen each generation as they defend our freedoms on the battlefield and in public institutions. Additionally, more locally, the organization honors the brave pioneers who, with sheer grit and determination, transformed the Tennessee wilderness into a thriving society, of which we are the fortunate beneficiaries.

2025-2026
Chapter Officers

President
Mark DeNicola

Vice President
open

2nd Vice President
Jim Cabage

Secretary
Tim Dake

Treasurer
Chuck Green

Registrar
Ron Jones

Genealogist
open

Historian
Rick Prescott

Chancellor
Hon Jon Rymer

Chaplain
Julius Hite

Sergeant at Arms
Rob Dillon

Surgeon
Shawn Brunelle

2026 Chapter and
State Event Schedule

Our Chapter meetings occur on the second Thursday of each month at Mimi’s Café in Turkey Creek except for February (George Washington Luncheon) & July (Independence Day at James White’s Fort).

Guests and members alike are welcome! There is a time of fellowship and eating at 6:00 pm, and the meeting starts at 7:00 pm. The currently scheduled events are listed below.