ROCKINGHAM — The General Henry William Harrington Chapter, (National Society Daughters of the American Revolution), held its first meeting of the season on Sept. 4, 2024, at the First United Methodist Church in Rockingham. This gathering was marked by significant recognitions and awards, highlighting the contributions of dedicated individuals to the community.
During the meeting, Melissa Wall, chapter regent, presented the Women in American History Award and Medal to Brenda Baucom, who accepted the honor on behalf of her late mother, Lillian Etta McFayden Sherrill.
Ms. Sherrill, a graduate of Ellerbe High School, was a devoted member of Jackson Springs Presbyterian Church. She taught Sunday school, served as an elder and a deacon, and was a life member of the Presbyterian Women. After retiring from a 25-year career as a teacher’s assistant, Ms. Sherrill dedicated herself to preserving local history. From 1992 to 1998, she and her husband, Woodford, played a crucial role in restoring Bostick School in Ellerbe. Additionally, she was the family historian, a member of the Richmond County Historical Society, and the Daughters of the American Revolution.
The Women in American History Award encourages chapters to honor women who have made significant contributions to their communities. These honorees can be historical figures or contemporary women who have demonstrated intellectual, educational, social, religious, political, scientific, or cultural innovation. They may be DAR members, prospective members, or non-members.
In addition to honoring Ms. Sherrill, the chapter recognized two Richmond County citizens with the DAR Community Service Award, presented by Amy Guinn, vice regent.
The first recipient, Allison Story, was honored for her work with Richmond County Operation Fix. Founded in 2012, the organization initially focused on rescuing animals from the local high-kill shelter, providing a pet pantry for families in need, and offering discount spay and neuter services. Since 2018, their focus has shifted to spay and neuter services and the pet pantry, having offset the surgical costs for over 900 animals in the county. Story’s tireless efforts have significantly impacted the local animal population, and her dedication to this cause is well-known throughout the community.
The second recipient, Chuck Cobb, was recognized for his extensive community involvement. He serves on the Seaboard Festival Committee, the Richmond County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, the Richmond County Hospice Board of Directors, Richmond County Crime Stoppers, and Rockingham Rotary.
Cobb has held various leadership positions, including leading the Hoptoberfest event, serving as interim director of the Chamber of Commerce, and currently presiding over Crime Stoppers. He is also an executive board member of both Richmond County Hospice and Rockingham Rotary and has served as an officer on the North Carolina Crime Stoppers Association. Cobb’s dedication to public service extends through his career as a federal probation officer, owner/operator of a private investigation company, and his volunteerism with various boards and organizations in Richmond and Moore County.
Cobb’s commitment to public service is evident in his willingness to plan and organize the Seaboard Festival Car Show this year. His contributions to the community are numerous, and he is known for his loyalty, activity, and selflessness. It’s wonderful to see such selflessness and dedication.
The meeting of the General Henry William Harrington Chapter highlighted the remarkable contributions of these individuals, showcasing their commitment to making a positive difference in their community. The recognition of Lillian Etta McFayden Sherrill, Allison Story and Chuck Cobb serves as an inspiration to others, demonstrating the impact that dedicated individuals can have on their communities.
The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution is a women’s service organization whose members can trace their lineage to an individual who contributed to securing American independence during the Revolutionary War. For more than 130 years, the DAR has strived to bring awareness to the honorable sacrifices and enduring legacy of all patriots who fought for America’s freedom. Through the DAR Genealogical Research System (www.dar.org/GRS), the public can access a free database of information amassed by the DAR about these patriots.
If you are interested in learning more about DAR membership, visit facebook.com/RichmondCountyDAR/
or contact ncdar.org/GeneralHenryWilliamHarringtonChapter.html.
