Pilgrim Academic Research Award

The Pilgrim Academic Research Award is presented each September at Congress or GBOA. 

The General Society of Mayflower Descendants and the Pilgrim Academic Research Committee is pleased to announce the eleventh annual Pilgrim Academic Research Award recipient, D. Brenton Simons, OBE. 

D. Brenton Simons, OBE, serves as President Emeritus and Chief Stewardship Officer of American Ancestors, formerly the New England Historic Genealogical Society, America’s oldest and largest genealogical organization. During his remarkable 19-year tenure as President and CEO, he transformed the organization into a global leader in family history, expanding its membership, scholarship, educational programming, and digital resources while guiding the development of its growing Boston campus.

Brenton is an accomplished historian and award-winning author whose books include Witches, Rakes, and Rogues and Boston Beheld. His contributions to historical scholarship have earned widespread recognition, including his appointment by His Majesty King Charles III as an Officer of the Order of the British Empire for his extraordinary service to Anglo-American history. Earlier this year, he was also awarded an honorary doctorate in history.

For decades, Brenton has been a tireless champion of preserving and interpreting the story of the Pilgrims and the founding of Plymouth Colony. Through his scholarship, leadership, and public engagement, he has deepened our understanding of our shared history while inspiring countless individuals to explore their own family stories. His work has strengthened the ties between the United States and the United Kingdom and has helped ensure that the Pilgrim story remains vibrant and relevant for future generations.

The GSMD Pilgrim Academic Research Award recognizes individuals whose scholarship has significantly advanced our understanding of the Pilgrims, Plymouth Colony, the Mayflower passengers, and the enduring legacy of Mayflower families. It honors those whose research, publications, leadership, and lifelong commitment have enriched the historical record and inspired future generations of scholars.

It is therefore fitting that the General Society of Mayflower Descendants bestow this honor upon a man whose career has exemplified those very ideals.

The 2026 GSMD Pilgrim Academic Research Award was presented to D. Brenton Simons, OBE, in recognition of his lifetime of distinguished scholarship, visionary leadership, and enduring contributions to the study and preservation of Pilgrim history.

Brenton, on behalf of the officers, our 54 Member Societies, and nearly 30,000 Mayflower Society Members, congratulations and thank you for your extraordinary service to our shared history.