Polly Cooper Chapter, NSDAR Presents Excellence in Historic Preservation Award to Student Volunteer

Yonkers, NY – June 28, 2026 – The Polly Cooper Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) proudly presented the DAR Excellence in Historic Preservation Award to Miriam Hale during a ceremony at the Sherwood House Museum in Yonkers.

The award was presented by Kim McCrea, Polly Cooper Chapter Historian and Historic Preservation Chair, along with Maria De Borba-Silva, Chapter Librarian.

The DAR Excellence in Historic Preservation Award recognizes individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to preserving and promoting local history. Miriam Hale was selected in recognition of her exceptional dedication, historical knowledge, and volunteer service to the Sherwood House Museum.

Miriam began volunteering at the museum in 2025 as a student volunteer representing the Bronx High School of Science. Since then, she has devoted countless hours to preserving the museum and sharing its history with visitors. Her enthusiasm for local history and commitment to historical preservation have made her an invaluable member of the museum's volunteer team.

In April 2026, members of the Polly Cooper Chapter toured the Sherwood House Museum with Miriam serving as docent. Leading the tour entirely from memory, she expertly guided visitors through the home's first and second floors, describing the artifacts, customs, and daily life of colonial America with remarkable depth and accuracy. She captivated the group with stories of the home's furnishings, historical traditions, and the museum's fascinating apothecary collection, including medicinal books, herbs, and the history behind the doctor's original skeleton preserved in the house. Throughout the tour, Miriam's extensive knowledge, engaging sense of humor, and thoughtful responses to visitors' questions left a lasting impression.

During the presentation, McCrea congratulated Miriam for her "dedication to historical preservation" and extended best wishes as she continues to pursue her personal, educational, and professional goals.

The Sherwood House Museum, built in 1740, is one of the few surviving pre-Revolutionary War tenant farmhouses in the New York metropolitan area. Maintained by the Yonkers Historical Society, the museum preserves an important piece of colonial history while providing visitors with an authentic glimpse into 18th-century life.

The Polly Cooper Chapter, NSDAR, is committed to preserving American history, promoting education, and honoring those whose dedication ensures that our nation's rich heritage will be preserved for future generations.

To learn more about DAR activities or to inquire about membership, please email info@pollycooperdar.org.
The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR), a nonprofit, nonpolitical women’s service organization, was founded in 1890 to preserve the memory and spirit of those who contributed to securing American independence. With approximately 190,000 members in nearly 3,000 chapters worldwide, DAR remains one of the largest and most active volunteer service organizations. To learn more about Today’s DAR, visit dar.org.
As the United States approaches its Semiquincentennial—the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding—now is the perfect time to discover whether you have an American Revolutionary War Patriot in your family and to help preserve the symbols that tell our nation’s story.