National

Nationally, DBE proudly celebrates more than 100 years of existence!

The society was founded in 1909 as Imperial Order, Daughters of the Empire in the USA.

It became the National Society, Daughters of the British Empire in the U.S.A. in 1920.

The society is affiliated with the Imperial Order, Daughters of the Empire in Canada (IODE);

the Victoria League in London, England; and the General Federation of Women’s Clubs in the United States.

There are around 207 chapters and approximately 3600 members of the DBE throughout the USA with representation in 30 states

Organization

Most members belong to a chapter, with elected chapter officers headed by a Regent. Chapters in each state are guided by a State Board, which in turn report to the National Board
presently in Texas (National administration rotates by district triennially.)
See www.dbenational.org

DBE is a non-profit society. All officers are volunteers. There is no paid staff.

Objectives

Primarily, we raise funds to support our four British Homes for Retired Men and Women, established in four regions of the United States:

The British Home in Brookfield, IL; Victoria Home in Ossining, NY;

The British Home in Sierra Madre, CA; and Mountbatten House, TX.

Our members also contribute to the good of the local community and to the
promotion of a closer relationship between English-speaking peoples.

Membership

DBE is for women who can claim British or British Commonwealth heritage by birth, naturalization, or proven ancestry.

A woman may be eligible through marriage if her husband, or his parent or grandparent is of British or Commonwealth birth.

Junior membership is offered to girls aged 15-18, who meet the above eligibility.

All membership is by invitation, and a member may join only one chapter, although she may visit

and help other chapters, if needed.

Members -at- Large are members of the National Society. This membership is offered to those who reside in an area not (YET) served by a chapter. Of course, we will be happy to help MALs form a new chapter in their area, and we do keep on touch. A chapter may form with seven members.