Heritage. Patriotism. Fellowship.
The Massachusetts Society of the Order of Founders and Patriots of America is hereditary and patriotic. Founded in 1896, the Order comprises “Associates” who trace their ancestry back to those first colonists and have forefathers in the same male ancestral line who served in the American Revolution. Today, as in the past, it comprises a wide range of individuals, all linked by a common heritage and dedicated to American ideals. The Society is apolitical, and non-partisan. The principal objectives of the Order are to:
- Bring together those who share this common heritage, regardless of political party, religious affiliation, or other differences
- Promote patriotism and a respect for the character and heroism of the founders and patriots of America
- Discover, collect and preserve the records, documents, monuments, and history of the first colonists and their descendants
- Promote educational, historical, and patriotic programs
The Order honors our Founder and Patriot Ancestors. Founders being those who braved the elements and unknown and colonized British North America in its first 50 years, from 1607 through 1657. Patriots being those in the same line who fought for or supported the cause of American Independence.Qualifying for membership is, by design, very difficult and this is reflected in our numbers. We welcome inquiries and candidates and guest are welcome at our regular meetings
The Massachusetts Society.
Organized in 1914, the Massachusetts Society is one of the earliest and largest of the state societies and represents associates from Massachusetts, Maine, and New Hampshire. We host several social and educational meetings throughout the year. These meetings are open to Associates and gentleman and lady guests who share an interest in colonial and revolutionary history. These luncheon or dinner events are generally held at historical or cultural venues. Our focus is the unifying elements of our shared heritage. Our passion for family and national history and our love of country. We avoid partisan politics or deeply divisive topics. As part of our mission, the Society provides service to the community at large in the way of financial and educational support that aligns with our historical, hereditary, and patriotic character.
How to Join.
The Order of Founders and Patriots consists of Associates from across the world who are united in their common lineage and patriotism. It is a very select group of Gentlemen who share a heritage, and a common interest in history, patriotism, and values that unite Americans. Among members have been gentlemen of all segments of our society, from laymen and civic leaders to generals and presidents.
Who is eligible to join?
The first requirement for membership in the Order is a Gentleman’s quality. We require that each candidate be proposed and seconded by an Associate who, if known to him and can attest to his character and adherence to our principles and values.
Genealogy is an essential qualification for membership – making the Order one of the most difficult to join. You can qualify if you or a male ancestor who was 18 or older in or after 1896 is directly lineally descended in the male line of either parent from an ancestor who settled in what is now the United States of America before May 13, 1657, and in that same line served in the American Revolution.