The national celebration of Constitution Week continues through Thursday, Sept. 23.

The tradition of celebrating the Constitution began in 1955 when the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) petitioned Congress to set aside Sept. 17-23 annually.

A resolution was later adopted by the U.S. Congress and signed into Public Law #915 on August 2, 1956 by President Dwight Eisenhower.

Goals of the recognition are to emphasize citizens’ responsibilities for protecting and defending the Constitution, preserving it for posterity; informing people that the Constitution is the basis for America’s heritage and foundation; and encouraging the study of historical events which led to the framing of the Constitution in September 1787.

DAR has served the country fro 114 as its foremost cheerleader. In 1928, the Daughters started work on a building as a memorial to the Constitution. DAR has more than 170,000 members with chapters in all 50 states and 11 foreign countries.

Last week in Suffolk, Mayor Bobby L. Ralph signed a proclamation in recognition of Constitution week. DAR members Pam Pruden and Marie Haas attended the signing at City Hall.