"To preserve and increase knowledge of the history of the American people by the preservation of documents and relics, the marking of historic spots, the recording of family histories and traditions, the celebrating of patriotic anniversaries, and especially the emphasizing and teaching of heroic deeds in the civil, military and naval life of those who molded this government of the United States and saved it from foes both within and without, between the close of the American Revolution and the close of the War of 1812.  In general, its one purpose is the promotion of patriotism.”