The General Society of Mayflower Descendants
How to Join
Find out more details about joining The Mayflower Society.
Mayflower Lineage Match
Find out how much of your Mayflower lineage has been previously verified.
Research Services
Hire Expert Help for all of your Genealogy Projects from the Mayflower Society’s Genealogical Team.
Mayflower Meetinghouse
Learn more about The Mayflower Society’s plans to build an immersive and multi-media museum experience in the Mayflower Meetinghouse.
Our Mission
The General Society of Mayflower Descendants is committed to research on the lineal descent of the Mayflower Pilgrims and education about the Pilgrims who traveled aboard the Mayflower in 1620. The Society provides education and understanding of why the Mayflower Pilgrims were important, how they shaped western civilization, and what their 1620 voyage means today and its impact on the world.
In 1620, a brave group of 102 men, women, and children sailed across the Atlantic on the Mayflower in search of a better life.
In 1897, the General Society of Mayflower Descendants was established to pay homage to the Pilgrims through preservation and education.
The Mayflower Society now has a network of more than 54 member societies across the world. Our members have formed lifelong bonds together while honoring the sacred legacy of our ancestors.
Discover Your Pilgrim Heritage
Welcome to the General Society of Mayflower Descendants.
Whether you are a longtime member, beginning to explore your family history, researching the Pilgrims, or simply interested in one of the most remarkable chapters in American history, I am delighted that you are here.
For more than 125 years, our Society has worked to preserve the history and legacy of the passengers of the Mayflower and to share their story with generations of descendants and the public. Today, that mission is more important than ever. The Pilgrims’ story is one of faith, perseverance, self-government, community, and hope. Those ideals continue to inspire people around the world.
If you are already a member, thank you for your commitment to our Society. The strength of the General Society lies in the dedication of thousands of volunteers who serve our Member Societies, preserve family histories, support educational programs, and welcome new descendants into our fellowship. Together, we are ensuring that this extraordinary legacy continues to flourish.
If you believe you may be descended from one of the Mayflower passengers, I encourage you to explore the opportunities available through our Member Societies. Membership offers far more than documenting a family line. It is an opportunity to connect with others who share your heritage, participate in meaningful programs and events, support historical and genealogical research, and help preserve an enduring legacy for future generations.
If you are visiting as a friend, educator, researcher, or supporter, we invite you to discover the many ways the General Society is preserving and sharing the Pilgrim story. From our educational initiatives and publications to the restoration of the National Pilgrim Memorial Meetinghouse in Plymouth, Massachusetts, we are creating new opportunities to engage people of all ages with this remarkable history. Your interest and support help make that work possible.
The story of the Pilgrims did not end in 1620. It continues today through millions of descendants and countless individuals who believe that preserving our shared history enriches our future.
Thank you for visiting. I hope you will take time to explore our website, learn more about our mission, and find your place in this remarkable community. Whether you choose to become a member, volunteer, support our work, or simply learn more about the Pilgrims, you are always welcome here.
Warm regards,
Martin W. Beerman
Governor General
General Society of Mayflower Descendants