What Do We Do in the Oregon Society?

The NSCDA-OR is one of 43 Corporate Societies within The National Society of The Colonial Dames of America. Our organization, made up of approximately 110 members, is dedicated to preserving history and fostering education. We proudly own and operate the Hoover-Minthorn House Museum in Newberg, Oregon, offering a variety of educational programs, social events, and community engagement opportunities. Additionally, we support patriotic service initiatives and educational opportunities, including the nationwide Congressional Essay Contest.

Membership provides an opportunity to connect with like-minded women who share a passion for historic preservation, American history, and patriotism. Whether members actively volunteer at the historic house, serve on committees, or contribute through participation and event attendance, each plays a vital role in advancing our mission. If these activities resonate with you, we encourage you to consider joining us.

Our society is a lineage-based organization. Membership is open to individuals who can trace their ancestry to men and women who served the American colonies before July 5, 1776. The Register of Ancestors (ROA) lists eligible ancestors from the 13 Colonial State Societies. If you believe you may be descended from an eligible individual, we can assist you in exploring your family history. If you can identify the last three generations in your lineage, we have resources to help determine potential eligibility. We would be delighted to welcome you!

A significant portion of Americans can trace their lineage back to the original thirteen colonies. According to Ancestry.com, about 60% of Americans have ancestors who lived in the U.S. during the Revolutionary War, which directly followed the colonial period. Additionally, millions are descended from Mayflower passengers and other early colonial settlers.

How Does the Membership Process Work?

Membership in The National Society of The Colonial Dames of America in the State of Oregon is by invitation only and is managed at the state level. It is based on both lineage and a commitment to the Society’s mission. To qualify, prospective members must be direct descendants of an ancestor who lived in an American colony and contributed to its service before July 5, 1776.

To begin the process:

  • If you can identify the last three generations in your lineage, we have resources to help determine potential eligibility.

  • Identify a colonial ancestor who significantly contributed to a colony prior to July 4, 1776. The Ancestor Bibliography Register, available on the NSCDA website, is a valuable resource.
  • With an ancestor identified, an application for candidacy must be approved by the Board of Managers with the support of two current members—a proposer and an endorser.

  • Upon invitation to become a candidate, a genealogist may assist in gathering the necessary documents to verify lineage (e.g., birth certificates, marriage licenses).

  • Once lineage documents are completed and verified by both the genealogist and registrar, a formal invitation is extended to the candidate.

Where Can I Learn More?

For additional information, please contact the Oregon Registrar. If you have a relative who is a Dame in the NSCDA, kindly provide her name and the Corporate Society to which she belongs.

We look forward to welcoming new members who share our passion for history and service!