AREA — Members of the Molly Ockett Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) gathered on July 19 at the Ridge Cemetery in Bridgton to clean cemetery gravestones. The Chapter volunteers cleaned 50 gravestones using D/2 Biological Solution, a biodegradable liquid that removes stains from mold, algae, mildew, lichens, and air pollutants on the stones.

Several people stopped when passing by to express their appreciation and thanks, including Wayne Allen, a lifelong resident of the area. As always, one particular stone caught the Chapter’s attention, being the slate stone of Esther Bradstreet, who died on 5 Nov 1837. Iron veins appear to run through the slate and, since D/2 does take time to work, the Chapter will be checking back to see the progress and what other mysteries the stone reveals.

Earlier in the month, the Chapter participated in the Independence Day parade in Bridgton. Members of the Chapter decorated a patriotic float and handed out an impressive 1000 flags to those assembled along the parade route. In addition, the Chapter added children’s books to local Little Free Libraries and received permission from the Town of Bridgton to place a children’s book box on the Town Common next to the Town Office.

The Daughters of the American Revolution is a society founded on service in the areas of historic preservation, education, and patriotism. The DAR is non-profit and non-political, and any woman 18 years or older who can prove lineal descent from a Patriot of the American Revolution may join, regardless of race, religion, or creed. If you would like more information about the DAR, visit the website www.dar.org or contact us at [email protected].