On November 11 the Caroline Close Stuart Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution presented the Mrs. Ida Gerdiman with the DAR Women in American History Award. This Award recognizes and honors an individual or group that has done remarkable volunteer work at the community level in preservation.

Ida Gerdiman is a driving force in the Boone Duden Historical Society. A Charter member who opened their doors in 1986, she has held the offices of secretary, historian, newsletter editor, and /or membership chair over the last 31 years. Her service entails cemetery location and relocation for maps, clearing of vegetation, cleaning and repairing stones, providing signage of places in the City of New Melle and other County areas. Ida is married to Carl Gerdiman and has two daughters.

The emphasis of Women in American History is on the role of women, past and present, in American history. Chapters are encouraged to select a notable woman from their state or community to honor who have met the goals of the DAR God, Home and Country. Women are chose to honor for this recognition by taking into consideration women who have made a contribution or a difference in their communities. 

"Honoring women in our local communities is just one of the ways the DAR insures our heritage is continued", says Chapter Regent, Helene Reece. "We are pleased to recognize such a deserving woman who had devoted her life to preserving the heritage of this part of our past."

Since 1890, the mission of the DAR has been to promote historic preservation, education, and patriotism.

For more information about the DAR contact Regent, Helene Reece at 636-284-7535. 

L-R: DAR Chapter Regent-Helene Reece, Ida Gerdiman,
and DAR Preservation Chairman Penny Pitman.