History of the DBE

DBE is a 501(c)(3) charitable, non-profit, non-political, non-sectarian, voluntary American society of women of British or Commonwealth birth, ancestry, naturalization, or marriage. We welcome women of all ages and from all walks of life to share and celebrate our common interests and heritage, engage with local charities, and support the two British Homes for seniors. 

Founded by Sarah Josephine Langstaff on March 15, 1909, as the Imperial Order, Daughters of the Empire in the U.S.A., in 1920 DBE became the National Society of Daughters of the British Empire in the U.S.A. The national organization is incorporated in the State of Delaware. DBE of Colorado began in 1983 and today we have four chapters: Chatsworth (1983), Sandhurst (1985), Royal Daffodil and Commonwealth Rose (2007). 

As times have changed, DBE has changed with them, leaving behind the echoes of empire and imperialism, with a name change to the simple “DBE.” However, we continue to cherish the shared heritage of the Commonwealth and the commitment to service in our motto: "Not Ourselves, but the Cause." The Honorary President of the DBE is the British Ambassador to the U.S. or the Ambassador's wife.

DBE is affiliated with I.O.D.E in Canada; the Victoria League in London, England; and the General Federation of Women’s Clubs in the United States.