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Revolutionary War Descendant's Grave in Fort Madison to Be Restored
Daughters of the American Revolution chapter working to renovate Clarissa Claypoole Wilson's gravestone.
Published on Mar. 2, 2026
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The local chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution is working to renovate the gravestone of Clarissa Claypoole Wilson, the daughter of Betsy Ross, who is buried in Fort Madison, Iowa. Wilson's mother, Elizabeth Grissom Claypoole, is widely known as the designer and maker of the first American flag.
Why it matters
The restoration of Clarissa Claypoole Wilson's gravestone in Fort Madison will help preserve an important piece of Revolutionary War history and recognize the legacy of Betsy Ross, one of the most iconic figures from the American Revolution.
The details
The stone will be lifted from its current concrete base, but officials say it is extremely fragile, which could limit the amount of restoration work that can be completed. There are also concerns about how and whether a new plaque can be placed once the restoration work is finished.
- The group plans to dedicate the restored stone on June 13, 2026, during the nation's 250th birthday celebration.
The players
Daughters of the American Revolution
A lineage-based membership service organization for women who are directly descended from a person involved in the United States' struggle for independence.
Clarissa Claypoole Wilson
The daughter of Betsy Ross, who is buried in Fort Madison, Iowa.
Betsy Ross
Widely known as the designer and maker of the first American flag.
What’s next
The group plans to dedicate the restored stone on June 13, 2026, during the nation's 250th birthday celebration.
The takeaway
The restoration of Clarissa Claypoole Wilson's gravestone will help preserve an important piece of Revolutionary War history and recognize the legacy of her mother, Betsy Ross, one of the most iconic figures from the American Revolution.
