Lineage societies are organizations that focus on preserving the memory and legacy of ancestors who were involved in a specific historical event. These organizations are commonly found in the United States, but also exist in other countries, and include societies like the Daughters of the American Revolution, Colonial Dames of America, and the General Society of Mayflower Descendants.
If you discover an ancestor connected to a major historical event, lineage societies can be a crucial resource in developing your research and getting a better understanding of your ancestor’s life. Most lineage societies offer genealogical research support and host regular events, spotlighting the events they focus on, giving you one of the best opportunities to connect with your heritage.
At MyHeritage, our historical records and digital family trees make it easier to research your ancestors and gather the evidence you’ll need to apply to join a lineage society. In this article, we’re exploring everything you need to know about lineage societies and how to join one.
Key takeaways on lineage societies:
- A lineage society is a membership-based organization for the descendants of ancestors from specific groups or who were involved in a major historical event.
- You can join a lineage society by proving your connection to an ancestor associated with the society’s focus with historical records.
- Joining a lineage society is one of the best ways to preserve your family’s legacy and further your research into a specific historical event involving your ancestor.
- MyHeritage can streamline your research and make it easier to find documented genealogical proof of your connection to your ancestor and make it easier to join a lineage society.
What is a lineage society?
A lineage society is a membership organization that welcomes individuals who can prove they are descendants of an individual involved in a historically significant event or from a specific group. Lineage societies are designed to support genealogy research and preserve historical documents.
Many societies also focus on promoting patriotism as they’re connected to country-specific events, like the American Revolution and the arrival of the 17th-century Mayflower ship from Europe to North America, which led to the first permanent New England colony. The first major lineage society began in 1890 with the Daughters of the American Revolution, which was launched to preserve the legacy of those who fought for American independence.
The role of lineage societies has hardly changed since the late 19th century. These organizations help foster a sense of community amongst individuals with shared lineage, promote education for events of national significance, and help preserve historical records and genealogical research.
Popular types of lineage societies
While lineage societies all have similar purposes, they usually fall into one of five main categories. Patriotic societies are intended to preserve the legacy of individuals who fought in a historically significant war, such as the Sons and Daughters of the American Revolution, for male and female descendants of American Revolutionary War veterans.
Other lineage societies focus on ancestral groups, such as the Colonial Dames of America, which offers membership for women who had at least one ancestor living in North America between 1607 and 1775 and aided the colonies in an accepted capacity. Similar lineage societies also exist with a wider ethnic and cultural focus. For example, St. Andrew’s Societies can be found throughout the world for individuals of Scottish heritage.
Military service is another major focus of lineage societies, which help preserve military records and other artefacts that may be difficult to find on digital databases. Additionally, lineage societies can also focus on pioneer ancestors and settlers in specific areas, such as the National Society of Daughters of Founders and Patriots of America.
Why you should join a lineage society
If you’re tracing your family tree, the chances are that you’re looking for information on a specific family member or you have a genuine interest in history. Joining a lineage society is a great way to further your genealogical research by giving you access to certified documents and artefacts that may not be publicly available. It’s also a unique way to connect to your heritage and meet new people who have a similar cultural background.
Many lineage societies offer educational programs that focus on spotlighting the significance of the historical event or era they’re associated with, including through regular publications and guest lectures. As a member of a lineage society, you can ensure that your ancestor’s contribution or involvement is preserved for future generations.
Gather your ancestral evidence to join a lineage society with MyHeritage
Lineage societies are a celebration of legacy, heritage, and patriotism. They’re an opportunity to further explore the life of your ancestors and become part of a community with a shared goal of preserving historical documents and raising awareness for a historical event.
MyHeritage can support your application to join a lineage society by giving you access to millions of historical records to prove your connection to qualifying ancestors. Join MyHeritage for free today to start your genealogical journey and preserve the legacy of your ancestors.
FAQs about lineage societies and how to join one
What is the purpose of a lineage society?
A lineage society exists to preserve the legacy of its members’ ancestors, while promoting patriotism, education, and supporting heritage research.
How do I know if I’m eligible to join a lineage society?
The entry requirements differ for every lineage society. You’ll typically need to prove your connection to a qualifying ancestor who was involved with the event or era that the society focuses on.
What documents do I need when applying to a lineage society?
You’ll typically need to show historical records, such as birth certificates and military documents, that show your direct connection to the ancestor who qualifies you to join the society.
Do lineage societies exist outside of the United States?
While the United States has the widest array of lineage societies and some of the highest membership numbers, they also exist in other countries, including Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia.
Can I use DNA testing to prove my lineage?
Although DNA testing can help with genealogical research, most lineage societies will require you to submit historical documents and official records as part of your membership application.
