I’m starting a lineage society application. What do I need to do first?

When you're trying to gather dozens of records for a lineage society applications, it can be hard to know where to start. There are two steps that can save you time, effort, and stress: Verify that you can make all parent-child connections. Try to find documents tying the parents and children together, because if youContinue reading "I’m starting a lineage society application. What do I need to do first?"

Am I allowed to join a lineage society with a new ancestor?

There are many incorrect answers to this question floating around... In most cases, the answer is yes. The Daughters of the American Revolution and Sons of the American Revolution prefer that you use someone who is already on file. It's simply for ease of verification, as it gives the verifying genealogist less to review. TheyContinue reading "Am I allowed to join a lineage society with a new ancestor?"

Do I need to have an identified ancestor before joining a society?

If you've been invited to be considered for lineage society membership, it can be tempting to jump in feet first - but that's not always a good idea. You may want to take some time to learn your family history and/or identify likely lines before proceeding. Here's why. Some societies, such as the Society ofContinue reading "Do I need to have an identified ancestor before joining a society?"

What’s the etiquette for joining an invitation only lineage society?

While some lineage societies welcome applications from any interested individual who meets their requirements, many require that an invitation be extended before they will consider an individual for membership. How do you proceed if you'd like to be considered? First, be aware that there is a process for consideration and not everyone is accepted. PatienceContinue reading "What’s the etiquette for joining an invitation only lineage society?"

Was your ancestor an officer? More resources for researching the American Revolution in France.

If your ancestor was an officer, consider reviewing the site of the Society of the Cincinnati in France. With officer biographies, histories of the Revolution and more, the Society's website can be an aid to your research. And who knows - if you're a male descendant from a French officer, you may even be eligibleContinue reading "Was your ancestor an officer? More resources for researching the American Revolution in France."