In the late 19th century, amid a national wave of interest in heritage, genealogy, and the founding principles of the United States, women across the country began organizing to preserve early American history. One of the earliest and most influential of these organizations is The Colonial Dames of America (CDA). Founded in 1890, the CDA is a national lineage society composed of women who are direct descendants of individuals who held public office or contributed in a civil or military capacity to the American colonies before the Revolutionary War.

Founding of The Colonial Dames of America

The Colonial Dames of America was founded on May 23, 1890, in New York City by a group of visionary women led by Maria Denning Van Rensselaer, a prominent historian and social figure. Van Rensselaer became the organization’s first President General and helped shape its purpose: to honor colonial ancestors, preserve historic sites, and foster education and patriotism.

The founding of CDA was part of a broader cultural movement known as the Colonial Revival, which emphasized the importance of early American history and its lasting values. It was also part of a wave of women’s civic and patriotic organizations at a time when women were advocating for greater public participation, even as they were still fighting for voting rights.

Mission and Purpose

The Colonial Dames of America established itself with several core objectives, which remain the foundation of the organization today:

• Collect and preserve manuscripts, relics, and records from the colonial period.
• Support historical research and education, particularly concerning colonial America.
• Promote patriotism and loyalty to the United States.
• Commemorate the service of ancestors who contributed to the establishment of the American colonies.

The CDA’s motto reflects its commitment to historic remembrance:
“Virtutes Majorum Filiae Conservant” — “The Daughters Conserve the Virtues of Their Ancestors.”

Membership and Eligibility

Membership in The Colonial Dames of America is open to women who can prove lineal descent from an ancestor who:

• Lived and served in an official capacity in the American colonies prior to July 4, 1776.
• Served in civil, military, or naval service in one of the thirteen original colonies.

Applicants must provide documented genealogical evidence including vital records, wills, land deeds, church records, and published genealogies. Each member is accepted into a Chapter.

National Headquarters and Historic Preservation

The national headquarters of CDA is located at the historic Mount Vernon Hotel Museum & Garden in Manhattan. Built in 1799 and operated as a hotel in the 1830s, it was saved from demolition in the 1930s by the Colonial Dames and restored as a museum.

This site represents CDA’s long-standing commitment to historic preservation, one of its core missions. Over the years, the organization has supported:

• Restoration of historic buildings, landmarks, and graveyards.
• Archival projects preserving early American documents and family histories.
• Scholarships and educational initiatives for students studying American history.

Activities and Legacy

The Colonial Dames of America is active nationwide and internationally through local chapters. Its activities include:

• Sponsoring lectures, exhibitions, and research grants in American history.
• Hosting annual conferences and events for members.
• Supporting genealogical research and training.
• Honoring notable contributions to the field of historical preservation and education.

CDA vs. NSCDA: What’s the Difference?

The Colonial Dames of America (CDA) and the National Society of The Colonial Dames of America (NSCDA) are often confused due to their similar names and missions. However, they are entirely separate organizations, founded a year apart:

• CDA was founded in 1890 in New York City.
• NSCDA was founded in 1891, also for women descended from colonial ancestors, but organized differently by state societies.

Both organizations are respected members of the Hereditary Society Community of the United States of America and continue to promote patriotic service and education.

A Lasting Commitment

More than 130 years after its founding, The Colonial Dames of America continues to uphold its mission of preserving the legacy of early American history, fostering scholarship, and celebrating the contributions of colonial women and men. Its members — dedicated genealogists, historians, and civic leaders — ensure that the values and sacrifices of the colonial era remain alive for generations to come.

Sources

1. The Colonial Dames of America – Official Website
2. Mount Vernon Hotel Museum & Garden – History and Preservation