Colonial Dames XVII Century, The National Society

About The National Society of the Colonial Dames of the XVII Century

The The National Society of the Colonial Dames of the XVII Century is a nonpolitical, nonsectarian hereditary patriotic society founded in 1896 to commemorate and preserve the history of the American colonies during the seventeenth century (1607–1700). The Society is dedicated to historic preservation, education, and honoring the individuals whose leadership and service helped establish the foundations of what would become the United States.

Who the Society Represents

The National Society of the Colonial Dames of the XVII Century represents women who are direct descendants of individuals who rendered distinguished civil, military, naval, judicial, or ecclesiastical service in the American colonies during the seventeenth century. Through its membership, the Society honors early colonial leadership and governance.

What the Society Does

• Preserves and promotes the history of seventeenth-century colonial America
• Supports historic preservation of colonial-era sites, artifacts, and records
• Encourages scholarly research and educational programming
• Promotes patriotism and civic responsibility rooted in early American history
• Engages members in commemorative and historical activities

Where the Society Operates

The National Society of the Colonial Dames of the XVII Century operates through a national organization with state societies across the United States. Activities and programs are conducted at the national, state, and local levels, including meetings, preservation initiatives, and educational outreach.

Member Eligibility Requirements

Membership in The National Society of the Colonial Dames of the XVII Century is hereditary and based on verified lineage.

• Applicants must be women aged 18 or older.
• Applicants must prove direct lineal descent from an ancestor who rendered distinguished service in an American colony between 1607 and 1700.
• Qualifying service may include civil, military, naval, judicial, or ecclesiastical roles recognized by the Society.
• Applicants must submit acceptable genealogical documentation establishing lineage.
• Applicants must be of good moral character and support the objectives of the Society.
• Final approval of membership is granted through the appropriate state society in accordance with national bylaws.

How Membership Is Structured

Membership is administered through state societies affiliated with the national organization. Members participate in meetings, historic preservation projects, educational initiatives, commemorative events, and governance activities that advance the Society’s mission of preserving seventeenth-century colonial history.