Save Kingston's D.A.R. House and Defend the Landmarks Law

We are raising funds to tell the story of Kingston's Daughters of the American Revolution Chapter House and community efforts to protect it from irreversible harm. This 18th-century stone house has stood the test of time, including the 1777 burning of Kingston by the British army. It was rightly designated a local landmark by the nascent Historic Landmarks Preservation Commission (HLPC) in 1969, and it is one of the most visually prominent buildings in the Stockade Historic District, which was designated in 1975.

The Wiltwyck Chapter NSDAR, a registered 501(c)(3) charity, has owned the house since 1907. Their stated mission is historic preservation and community education about their historic building. Despite this, in 2022, they purchased new run-of-the-mill windows to replace all 32 of their historic sash without seeking the required approval from the HLPC. Since then, they've been locked in a battle with the City of Kingston for retroactive permission. In July 2025, they were caught removing the historic windows without having the necessary building permit. In response, the City posted a stop-work order. Such blatant disregard for local laws and procedures, if allowed to stand, threatens the legitimacy of Kingston's boards, commissions, and agencies.

On September 11, the Zoning Board of Appeals will rehear the D.A.R.'s application to overturn the HLPC's denial of a certificate of appropriateness. Funds will go towards producing a short, compelling video that will be shown at the hearing to describe why it is important to affirm the HLPC's decision in this matter and to uphold Kingston's landmarks preservation law in general. The video will also be used to encourage all levels of the D.A.R. organization to be the preservation champions they claim to be.

Proceeds will cover costs associated with interviews, professional videography, film and sound editing, and graphic design. Marissa Marvelli, a Kingston resident and historic preservation professional, is directing this effort on a volunteer basis. She does not represent any official organization.