The programs and projects of the
National Society promote its Objects. While emphasis
changes with each administration, some projects and awards are
ongoing:
1. The National Historian's
Teacher Award recognizes teachers and leaders of youth
organizations in each state for outstanding achievements in
demonstrating good citizenship and patriotism and by
teaching young people about Colonial American heritage
and history.
2. The Historic Research
and Preservation Award is given for Colonial research and
preservation such as restoration of records as well as oral,
written, or pictorial contributions.
3. A cash award is given
annually to the author of an article about Colonial history
published in the William and Mary Quarterly; the winning
article is selected by the Quarterly's editorial board.
Considered one of the finest historical publications in our
country, the Quarterly is the official publication of the
College of William and Mary at Williamsburg, Virginia, the
second oldest college in the United States.
4. A contribution is given
annually to the Swem Library of the College of William and
Mary for the purchase of rare Colonial books. This
library is considered to have one of the finest collections of
American Colonial books in the world. The Wrenn Building
housing the library is the oldest academic building in the
United States, dating from the English Colonial
period.
5. The National Society
makes a financial contribution for maintenance of the
Cathedral of the Pines at Rindge, New Hampshire, designated by
the United States Congress as the "Altar of the Nation."
Each year, on May 30, a memorial service is held at the
"Cathedral" for all American war dead
and is attended by the National President or her
representative when possible.
6. Each year the National
Society presents awards to graduating cadets of the United
States Air Force Academy at Colorado Springs, Colorado, and
the United States Military Academy at West Point, New
York. Winners are selected by the History Department
faculty for excellence in the study of American
history. The Air Force Academy award winner receives a
selection of books (chosen by a member of the faculty) for his
or her personal library. The Military Academy award
winner receives an engraved presentation pitcher.
The National Society pays the cost of the awards, which
are presented during the annual awards
ceremonies.
