The General Society of Mayflower Descendants has the same document requirements as the Daughters of the American Revolution, right? Wrong. Here are three sources you must find as you’re working on your application.
- The Silver Books entries for this line: DAR and GSMD both require you to use what’s already on file, but that information is stored in different locations. GSMD uses the entries from the Silver Books. It’s a good idea to review them when you’re starting out to be sure your line makes sense and is believed to be accurate. There’s a lot of incorrect information out there. You do not need to make copies. The historian will add the details (or make them available to you to add) when your application is prepared.
- Vital records: The Daughters of the American Revolution only (currently) requires vital records for the first three generations (applicant, parents, and grandparents). The General Society of Mayflower Descendants requires vital records for the entire period they were legally demanded. Some historians may ask for records from an even earlier period in which vital records were recorded but not required by law. If a record cannot be found, be prepared to get a no record found letter from the clerk, recorder, or archives.
- Additional marriages: DAR only requires documentation of the marriage that produced the child and any that may have caused the woman’s legal name to change. GSMD expects all marriages for the person the line runs through (line carrier). Some historians may ask for all marriages for the couple. Be prepared.