Lineage Societies

What does this word being used by my lineage society mean?

Lineage societies have a vocabulary of their own. If you’re in the process of applying, knowing what the terms mean can make your life much easier! Here are a few common terms: Lineage Society: Also called a hereditary society, this is an organization that decides membership based on the actions of an applicant’s ancestor. QualifyingContinueContinue reading “What does this word being used by my lineage society mean?”

What was the Ladies’ Association of Philadelphia?

Founded in 1780 by Esther de Berdt Reed, the Ladies’ Association of Philadelphia raised money for the Continental Army through door to door fundraising. The organization raised over $7,000, which was used to clothe soldiers. Although heavily critiqued, the Association was one of the first American examples of organized political action by women. The family’sContinueContinue reading “What was the Ladies’ Association of Philadelphia?”

Can I use the results of a mitochondrial DNA test in a lineage society application?

First of all, what’s a mitochondria? For those of you who don’t recall your high school biology class: a mitochondria is a structure within the cell. It’s often referred to as a cell’s “energy center.” There’s a really good explanation here. Mitochondria have their own DNA, so they can be tested separately. It was longContinueContinue reading “Can I use the results of a mitochondrial DNA test in a lineage society application?”

Land records: an underused source in lineage research

Land records are often a “source of last resort” for genealogists. Rarely fully indexed, they require us locating and accessing a separate index book (called a grantor/grantee index); copying down the volumes and pages that apply to our ancestor; and then going into each volume to copy the appropriate pages. It’s time consuming and oftenContinueContinue reading “Land records: an underused source in lineage research”

Can I use my Revolutionary War ancestor’s military headstone as “proof” of their service?

The white marble military headstone is a powerful symbol of service and sacrifice. However, it doesn’t date to the period of the American Revolution. The marble headstone came into being in 1873, as a way to mark the graves of the dead of the Civil War. As noted by the National Cemetery Administration, it wasContinueContinue reading “Can I use my Revolutionary War ancestor’s military headstone as “proof” of their service?”