National Society of the Colonial Dames of America

National Society of the Colonial Dames of America is a lineage-based Patriotic society founded in 1891, dedicated to Historic preservation, Patriotism, and educational work. Membership is restricted to women who are direct descendants of individuals who rendered significant service to the American colonies before the War of Independence. The organization operates at the national level with affiliated societies in 44 states and the District of Columbia, overseeing a network of historic properties, museums, and educational initiatives.

History

The society was established in 1891 in Philadelphia, largely through the efforts of Mary Marshall and other prominent women, during a period of heightened interest in colonial history and ancestral heritage. Its formation paralleled that of other societies like the Daughters of the American Revolution and the General Society of Mayflower Descendants. Early efforts focused on preserving documents and sites related to the Colonial era, such as Mount Vernon and St. Paul's Chapel. Throughout the 20th century, the organization expanded its preservation work, contributing to projects at places like Independence Hall and the Jamestown settlement, while also engaging in patriotic activities during both World War I and World War II.

Organization and membership

The national headquarters is located at Dumbarton House in Washington, D.C., a Federal-period museum. The society is governed by a national board, with each state society operating semi-autonomously under the umbrella of the national constitution. Membership is by invitation and requires proven lineal descent from an ancestor who lived in and served the Thirteen Colonies prior to 1750, with service including roles in government, such as in the House of Burgesses, the military, the clergy, or other recognized professions. This stringent requirement connects members to figures from early American history, including signers of the Mayflower Compact and participants in events like Bacon's Rebellion.

Activities and programs

Primary activities include the preservation and interpretation of historic properties, such as Gunston Hall and the Strawbery Banke Museum. The society sponsors significant educational outreach, including the American History and Government committee, which provides resources to teachers and scholarships for students. It also supports archaeological work at sites like Carter's Grove and publishes scholarly works on colonial currency and period architecture. Patriotic ceremonies are held at landmarks including Independence National Historical Park and the Washington Monument, often in collaboration with groups like the Sons of the American Revolution.

Affiliated properties and museums

The society owns, operates, or maintains over 70 properties across the United States. Notable examples include Dumbarton House in Washington, D.C., which serves as the national headquarters and museum; the Whitehall Museum House in Middletown, Rhode Island; and the Miles Brewton House in Charleston, South Carolina. Other significant sites are the Pemiquid Point Light in Maine, the San Diego Mission de Alcalá in California, and the Ximenez-Fatio House in St. Augustine, Florida. These properties often feature collections of decorative arts, period furniture, and important archives related to families like the Lees of Virginia.

Notable members

Throughout its history, membership has included many women prominent in society, philanthropy, and the arts. Early members included Annie Burr Jennings, a noted philanthropist and preservationist, and Alice Roosevelt Longworth, daughter of President Theodore Roosevelt. Other distinguished members have been Isabella Greenway, a U.S. Representative from Arizona; Lydia Moss Bradley, founder of Bradley University; and Ellen Axson Wilson, first wife of President Woodrow Wilson. The ranks have also included authors like Mabel Walker Willebrandt and society figures such as Gertrude Sanford Legendre.

Category:Patriotic and hereditary organizations in the United States Category:Organizations established in 1891 Category:Women's organizations based in the United States