It can be really frustrating when a lineage society tells you that your chosen ancestor can’t be used. It’s important to remember it’s not a statement on you or your ancestor! Typically there are three reasons why they’re not accepting the ancestor:
- The ancestor’s service doesn’t meet their qualifying ancestor guidelines: Lineage societies require ancestors to have served in a specific role or roles during a specific time period. For example, Colonial Dames XVII Century requires an “ancestor who lived and served prior to 1701“. If you’re not clear on the specific guidelines for ancestor eligibility, ask! The society may be able to provide you a link to or copy of the guidelines or may be willing to check your specific ancestor. If you still want to document that specific ancestor and they don’t qualify, consider looking for a society that honors that ancestor’s service.
- They’re trying to help: Sometimes a registrar or genealogy volunteer will see an ancestor whose line seems easier to document according to their standards. They may suggest switching to a different ancestor in order to help you complete your application more quickly or more easily. If you are willing to spend the time, energy, and money necessary to document a specific ancestor, it’s okay to say no. Or consider a middle ground: use their chosen ancestor to start and add yours as a supplemental. Most societies allow additional ancestors to be added through later applications called “supplementals.”
- There’s an issue with documenting your ancestor: Sometimes, it’s difficult to impossible to document connections to certain ancestors. A fire may have destroyed crucial documentation or you just can’t find the record you need. Other times, you may need to call in professional genealogical help. Societies have lists of what are considered acceptable supporting documents. If that list cannot be met, they may return your application back to you. Ideally you want to identify problems before submission, so ask for the list early – and if you can’t meet it, perhaps it’s best to switch to a different ancestor and revisit the chosen one in a few years. Digitization continues to make records far more accessible.