Our History
As one of the oldest chapters in Colorado, the Ellis Meredith Chapter, NSDAR was the 13th organized NSDAR
chapter in the State. Through our history, the Ellis Meredith Chapter has had several names.
Our chapter was organized on June 1,, 1910 by Mrs. Greydene-Smith, organizing regent, with the approved name of “Santa Fe Trail”. Before the actual charter time, it was learned that Trinidad, Colorado was organizing a new chapter. Since Trinidad was on the old trail, the name was relinquished to them. Several other names were suggested, but all turned down by National DAR office. In sheer desperation, Mrs. Greydene-Smith suggested the name “Peace Pipe”, because of its historical significance in the development of the West. The term was also indicative of “a first meeting”.
After 113 years, on April 5, 2024, Peace Pipe Chapter officially changed its name again to the Ellis Meredith
Chapter, after the woman known as the “Susan B. Anthony of Colorado”. Ellis Meredith was a major force in
the movement to gain the right to vote for women. Riding her bicycle across Denver to campaign, she succeeded in getting the women’s vote in Colorado in 1893.
As a result, our chapter symbols are now the bicycle, the sunflower, and the suffragist sash colors.
Our Future
After a century Ellis Meredith Chapter, NSDAR continues the traditions and the mission of the NSDAR. The Daughters in the Ellis Meredith Chapter proudly continue the traditions of this truly historical chapter. Ellis Meredith Chapter, NSDAR continues to grow in Denver and to share in education, patriotism, and historic preservation that encompasses the proud history of the chapter, founded by amazing Daughters. Current Daughters are proud to continue this legacy, learn, share, provide community service, and cherish our future as the chapter goes forward.
