Honoring America 250 Patriots

2026 marks the 250th anniversary of our nation's founding. The Los Altos Chapter, NSDAR is here to honor and celebrate. Over the next six years, we will discover, remember and share the stories of our chapter's patriot ancestors as we celebrate America 250.

This week, we honor ANTONIO JOSE ORTIZ, a Spanish patriot who resided in Santa Fe, Nuevo Espana (current-day New Mexico).

Antonio Jose became quite wealthy as a rancher, merchant, money-lender, and generous church benefactor. He was the mayor of Santa Fe during the American Revolution.

In August 1780, King Carlos III of Spain issued a Royal Order asking each Spanish and Indian male 18 years or older in the Spanish colonies to make a voluntary donation to support the war effort. The Viceroy of New Spain appointed Don Juan Bautista de Anza as the Governo or the Providence of Nuevo Mexico, the present-day New Mexico. Anza thanked the Alcade Mayors for their contributions.

Antonio Jose Ortiz is recognized as a patriot of the American Revolution for his rendered aid to the American cause by being instrumental in collecting the donations.

The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution was founded in 1890 to preserve the memory and spirit of those who contributed to securing American independence. For more than 125 years, the DAR has strived to bring awareness to the honorable sacrifices and enduring legacy of all patriots who fought for America’s freedom. The Daughters of the American Revolution are vibrant, active women who passionately carry out the timeless mission of Historic preservation, education, and patriotism.

For DAR membership inquiries, please contact Donna Santistevan - losaltosdar@gmail.com or visit us at losaltos.californiadar.org.