News Summary
Mark M. Jakobowski has been elected as the first president general from Virginia in over a century for the General Society of the Sons of the Revolution. His election at the triennial conference in Pennsylvania marks a historic milestone for both the organization and its Virginia members. Since joining in 2011, Jakobowski has been active in promoting the distinctions between the Sons of the Revolution and the Sons of the American Revolution, while also holding leadership roles within his local community.
Williamsburg, Virginia – Mark M. Jakobowski has made history by being elected as the first president general from Virginia in over a century for the General Society of the Sons of the Revolution (SR). His election occurred during the triennial conference held in Pennsylvania last year, marking a significant milestone for the organization and its members in Virginia.
Jakobowski has been an active member of the Virginia society of the Sons of the Revolution since joining in 2011. Alongside his new role as president general, he currently serves as the president of the Virginia Society of the Sons of the Revolution, doubling his responsibilities at both the state and national levels.
During his first 10 months in this prominent position, Jakobowski has been busy engaging with various patriotic organizations across the country, receiving numerous invitations to speak. His message is clear: there is a need to clarify the distinctions between the Sons of the Revolution and the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR), organizations often confused by the public.
The Sons of the Revolution is the older of the two organizations, having been founded in 1875 in New York City by John Austin Stevens Jr. In contrast, the SAR was established later in 1889 in New Jersey by William Osborne McDowell. Both organizations have overlapping membership requirements that recognize lineal descendants of Revolutionary War participants, although the criteria and framework differ between the two societies.
Jakobowski emphasized that members of the Sons of the Revolution are descended from Continental Army officers, militia officers, and enlisted men who actively participated in the Revolutionary War. His own family history is tied to illustrious figures, including the Custis family, famously connected to John Parke “Jacky” Custis, who was George Washington’s stepson.
At 71 years old, Jakobowski moved from Portsmouth to Williamsburg in 1997. He is not only dedicated to his role within the Sons of the Revolution, but he also serves as the president of Pathmark Consulting and Design. Furthermore, he is involved in an initiative to find a new home for 42 presidential busts, emphasizing his passion for preserving history.
Aside from his business ventures, Jakobowski holds positions as the chairman of the James City County Historical Commission and is a member of the Board of Zoning Appeals, showcasing his commitment to the local community and heritage preservation.
The national headquarters of the Sons of the Revolution was relocated to Williamsburg in 2008 and can now be found at 423 West Frances Street, increasing the organization’s visibility and connection to its historical roots in Virginia.
Jakobowski’s election as president general represents a renewed focus and energy for the organization, serving as a pivotal moment that bridges local history with national significance. His leadership is anticipated to inspire a deeper understanding and appreciation of the contributions made by Revolutionary War participants, ensuring their legacies endure within American history.
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Additional Resources
- Daily Press: James City County Man Leads Group That Promotes American Independence
- News and Sentinel: A Few Moments for the Minutemen
- WYD: News Briefs for July 18
- Wikipedia: Sons of the Revolution
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Sons of the Revolution
Author: STAFF HERE WILLIAMSBURG WRITER
WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER The WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWilliamsburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Williamsburg, James City County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Williamsburg Farmers Market, Yorktown Market Days, and Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce and Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, plus leading businesses in education and hospitality that power the local economy such as College of William & Mary, The Williamsburg Winery, and Sodexo. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREVirginiaBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Virginia's dynamic landscape.
