Published: May 08, 2008 06:20 pm            

DAR group marks anniversary

ASHEBORO — The Colonel Andrew Balfour Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution celebrated its 60th anniversary last Thursday at the grave site of its namesake.

Balfour was a Revolutionary war hero who fought local loyalists, including the infamous David Fanning. It was Fanning and his band of men who killed Balfour at his home, located at the present site of the Asheboro Regional Airport. The Balfour family grave plot is near where he was killed, outside the airport proper.

Gail Walker, regent of the Balfour Chapter, presided over the program, which included recognition of the organizing members, many of whom were represented by their descendants. Only one founding member is believed to be alive, but she was unable to attend.

Walker and vice regent Rachel Millikan placed a wreath at the Balfour grave. Balfour Chapter member and District Director Susan McCrary installed new officers: Miriam Bivins, secretary; Elizabeth Sanders, librarian; and Brenda Outen, historian.

The members and guests ate an 18th century picnic lunch. Many of the members were dressed in period costumes. After lunch, Sanders played the part of Margaret Balfour, sister of Andrew, and told the story of her brother's journey from Scotland to America, his trials in the business world, his move to Randolph County, his appointment as a colonel in the Revolutionary army and his tragic death.

        

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