HISTORY OF THE
DESOTO CHAPTER
DAUGHTERS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

The DeSoto Chapter DAR organized February 21, 1903, was the first Chapter in Hillsborough County with Mrs. James McKay as the first Regent. The Chapter was chartered January 2, 1912 ranking 1003 in the National Society. Mayor D. B. McKay and Representatives gave the Historic Little School House to the DeSoto Chapter, September 8, 1931. At that time it was moved to its present site on the west side of The University of Tampa close to McKay Auditorium. The School House was formally named to the National Register of Historic Places, August 28, 1975. On Washington’s Birthday, February 22, 1983, the Chapter placed a Historical marker on the north side of the building.

The members in 1903 chose to name the Chapter DeSoto for the early Spanish explorer Hernando DeSoto. He was one of the four great Captains of Spain. The Fleet landed in Tampa Bay in May 1539. According to many historians he signed a treaty with the Indians under the Great Oak, which still stands on the east side of The University of Tampa. This Oak is registered in the “Hall of Fame of Trees” by the American Forestry Association. The Chapter placed a Historical marker at the base in 1929. 

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