Reed honored with Daughters of the American Revolution Women in History Award

Anyone who has hiked Tubbs Hill, enjoyed public access to Lake Coeur d'Alene or strolled the Centennial Trail can thank former Idaho State Sen. Mary Lou Reed and her late husband, environmental attorney Scott Reed, for their persistence, patience and refusal to give up on the public good.

"Together, they helped found the Kootenai Environmental Alliance and the Idaho Conservation League, organizations that have protected Idaho’s lands and water for more than 50 years," Daughters of the American Revolution member Laurie Jaeger said Friday morning.

After years of organizing, campaigning for others and working on local issues, Mary Lou ran for office and was elected to the Idaho State Senate in 1984. She represented District 4 for six terms, “becoming known as a legislator who was principled, prepared and unfailingly decent," Jaeger said.

Her priorities were clear: clean water, strong public schools, early childhood education, smaller class sizes, human rights and fairness.

"She once said she believed she was an effective legislator, but not a mean one,” Jaeger said. “Anyone who worked with her will tell you, that was exactly right.”

A force of nature in Idaho for over 70 years, Mary Lou was honored Friday morning as the DAR Lt. George Farragut Chapter 2026 Woman in American History.

"Mary Lou's legacy isn't just found in policies or organizations; it's found in places we love, the people she's encouraged and in the quiet but powerful belief that each of us matters and that's always worth doing the work," Jaeger said. "It's no wonder Mary Lou received the DAR Good Citizenship Award in 1948. Today, we honor Mary Lou and we recognize her for a life that continues to make Idaho stronger, kinder and more hopeful."

Accompanied by her son, Bruce Reed, Mary Lou accepted the award while guests and DAR members applauded. She thanked everyone for attending and shared her appreciation for the patriotic organization.

"Thank you for the honor, thank you all for your friendship," she said. "Isn't it wonderful being a part of this community? We are so fortunate to have that, plus a lake."

Bruce wrapped his arm around his mom and kissed her forehead as attendees stood and clapped.

Local students were also recognized during the spring awards ceremony and chapter meeting.

Vivienne Smith, a sixth grader at Holy Family Catholic School, was honored as the chapter's American History Essay winner for writing about sharing a meal with Benjamin Franklin.

Three of four of the chapter's 2026 DAR Good Citizens were also present to receive awards: Gretchen Renz, WayMaker Christian Academy; Kelsie Dechand, Kellogg High School; and Chloe Orear, Coeur d'Alene High School. Grace Bredson, Coeur d'Alene Charter Academy, was not present to receive her award.

Kelsie, of Kingston, said it felt super cool to be recognized by DAR members.

"I wasn't expecting it," she said, smiling. "I really didn't know what to expect. I think I'm the first Kellogg kid to be nominated for it."

She said that young people should be involved in understanding and promoting American History because her generation is the future.

"It's important for younger students and young people to get involved in our nation and what's going on," she said.

    DAR Lt. George Farragut Chapter Regent Kathy Swanson, left, and Good Citizen Chair R.J. Banks present Kellogg High School senior Kelsie Dechand with a Good Citizen Award during a Friday morning ceremony at the Hayden Eagles.
  

    Gretchen Renz, right, of Way Maker Christian Academy, receives a Good Citizen Award from DAR Regent Kathy Swanson, left, and Good Citizen Chair R.J. Banks during the Lt. George Farragut Chapter's spring awards ceremony Friday morning at the Hayden Eagles.
  

    DAR Lt. George Farragut Chapter Good Citizen Chair R.J. Banks presents Coeur d'Alene High School student Chloe Orear with a Good Citizen Award during a Friday morning ceremony.
  

    Holy Family Catholic School sixth grader Vivienne Smith accepts an award from Lisa McLeod, right, for winning the DAR Lt. George Farragut Chapter's American History Essay Contest.
  

    Mary Lou Reed, right beams a bright smile Friday morning as she is named the Daughters of the American Revolution Lt. George Farragut Chapter 2026 Woman in American History. Presenting the award are Regent Kathy Swanson, left, and DAR member Laurie Jaeger.