Ska-Hase-Ga-O DAR chapter members and honored guests at the new historical marker unveiling. Photo by DAR chapter member
The Lima Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) recently unveiled a new historical marker, coinciding with the nationwide observance of National Historical Marker Day. Held annually on the last Friday in April, the day is dedicated to bringing together volunteers and communities across the country to maintain and honor historical markers that preserve the stories of America’s past.
The new marker, proudly installed in Lima, joined over 2,800 markers across New York State. These markers serve not only as educational tools but as enduring symbols of the people, events, and places from the past.
This newest sign is especially significant to members of the Ska-Hase-Ga-o Chapter of the DAR, which has called Lima home since its founding in 1908. The chapter, the oldest and currently the only one in Livingston County, was named in honor of the Seneca village that once flourished in the area known as Lima, NY —long before modern settlement.
This is not the first time Lima’s history has been commemorated in this way. Nearly a century ago, the New York State Education Department erected a marker along Route 5&20 recognizing the region’s heritage. That original sign, however, suffered the effects of time and weather. Though it was once welded back together, it no longer reflected the dignity of the history it was meant to represent.
In 2023, as the Ska-Hase-Ga-o Chapter, NSDAR celebrated its 115th anniversary, members decided it was time to take action. Their goal was to preserve the past by replacing the damaged sign and honoring the legacy of their chapter’s namesake. The recent unveiling was a result of that dedicated effort.
“This marker is more than just metal and words,” said by Chapter Regent Stephanie Dempsey during the ceremony. “It is a symbol of remembrance, of respect, and of our continuing commitment to tell the stories of those who came before us.”
As residents and visitors joined together at the maker for the ceremony, they also celebrate the DAR’s ongoing commitment to historic preservation and education.
For information about the DAR or the Ska-Hase-Ga-O Chapter, please visit http://www.facebook.com/skahasegaoDAR/ or send your inquires to skahasegao@gmail.com
