The Grand Rapids Sophie De Marsac Campau Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution started on May 18, 1896 with just fifteen members. The chapter was named in honor of Sophie Campau, the wife of Louis Campau, who is said to be the first white settler in what became Grand Rapids. Sophie Campau was raised in Detroit, married Louis in 1825, and moved to Grand Rapids with him in 1827. Chapter members Mrs. Henry B. Davis said the name was chosen “to perpetuate the name of a woman of rare grace and character who was held in high esteem by the early pioneers.”

The chapter adapted their bylaws and constitution from those used by the Detroit Chapter. In the early years, the chapter focused on instructional programs in schools about patriotism, the American Revolution and the American flag. In 1907, the members restored the gravestones of Lois and Sophie Campau and on June 23, 1909, the chapter started an annual Founder's Day celebration in Grand Rapids in honor of the Campaus. Chapter member Caroline Campbell helped find and restore the first state constitution and helped put the first state flag on display. Later, during World War I, the chapter was active in helping with the war effort, rolling bandages, knitting garments, working with the Red Cross, donating money and sending chocolate to the men overseas. The Grand Rapids Chapter remains active today, and is one of 54 Michigan chapters. The Michigan DAR was founded in 1900, and now has over 3000 members.

The National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution was formed on Oct. 11, 1890. The objectives of DAR remain the same today, and state and local chapters are guided by these objectives. DAR strives to perpetuate the memory and spirit of the men and women who achieved American Independence, to carry out the injunction of George Washington in his farewell speech “to promote ... institutions for the general diffusion of knowledge, thus developing an enlightened public” and to cherish, maintain and extend the institutions of American freedom, to foster true patriotism and love of country, and to aid in securing for mankind all blessings of liberty.