News Summary
Mark M. Jakobowski has made history as the first president general of the General Society of the Sons of the Revolution from Virginia in over a century. His election at the triennial conference reflects his commitment to promoting public understanding of the organization and its historical significance. Jakobowski, who has been an active member since 2011, aims to increase the visibility of the SR while bridging the gap with other historical societies. With deep roots in Virginia’s history, Jakobowski is poised to enhance the stature and influence of the Sons of the Revolution.
Williamsburg, Virginia – Mark M. Jakobowski has made history by becoming the first president general of the General Society of the Sons of the Revolution (SR) from Virginia in over a century. Elected at the organization’s triennial conference held in Pennsylvania last year, Jakobowski’s appointment marks a significant milestone for the Virginia Society of the Sons of the Revolution.
Jakobowski has been an active member of the Virginia Society of the Sons of the Revolution since 2011, where he has also served as president. His leadership has garnered considerable attention, with numerous invitations to speak or participate in events from various patriotic organizations over the last ten months. This reflects the heightened visibility and engagement of the SR in the realm of American historical societies.
Despite the organization’s achievements, there often exists confusion regarding its identity compared to the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR), particularly in regions where the Sons of the Revolution is less recognized. Both organizations require membership from lineal descendants of individuals who played a role in the Revolutionary War. However, the specifics of these requirements vary, underscoring the importance of public understanding of their respective missions and histories.
The Sons of the Revolution was founded in 1875 by John Austin Stevens Jr. in New York City and is considered an outgrowth of the Society of the Cincinnati. Contrast this with the SAR, which was established later in 1889 by William Osborne McDowell in New Jersey. The national headquarters of the SR relocated to Williamsburg in 2008, now situated at 423 West Frances St., near Merchants Square, providing a historical setting suitable for its operations.
Reflecting on his lineage, Jakobowski has an ancestral connection to the Custis family dating back to the late 1600s, including a distant relationship with John Parke “Jacky” Custis, who was the stepson of George Washington. His deep-rooted interest in history began in childhood, particularly nurtured by school trips to historical sites like Williamsburg. Following a move from Portsmouth, Virginia, to Williamsburg with his wife Lynne in 1997, Jakobowski has committed himself to local historical preservation and education.
Professionally, he serves as the founder and president of Pathmark Consulting and Design, a role he has held for over a decade. Beyond his new role with the SR, Jakobowski actively contributes to local historical endeavors, including a project aimed at providing a new home for 42 presidential busts, which were previously housed in Presidents Park in James City County.
In addition to his commitments, Jakobowski plays a vital role in local governance as the chairman of the James City County Historical Commission and also serves on the James City County Board of Zoning Appeals. His multifaceted involvement reflects a dedication to preserving Virginia’s storied past while educating the public about the significance of the Revolutionary War and its key figures.
As Jakobowski steps into his new role, he is poised to enhance the stature and influence of the Sons of the Revolution, fostering greater understanding and recognition of this historic organization. As Virginia’s first president general in over a century, he is not only a representative of the state but a voice for descendants of those who bravely fought for American independence.
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- Daily Press: James City County Man Leads Group Promoting American Independence
- Wikipedia: American Revolution
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- Google Search: Sons of the Revolution
- Clarksville Now: Sons of American Revolution Commentary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Sons of the Revolution
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- Google News: American Patriotic Organizations
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.
