The Noble Society of Celts: Celebrating Celtic Heritage

Among the many international heritage and lineage societies, the Noble Society of Celts holds a unique place. Founded to honor the legacy of Celtic peoples across Europe, it combines genealogy, culture, and fellowship, bringing together members who share pride in their Celtic roots.


Formation of the Noble Society of Celts

The Noble Society of Celts, founded October 1993, and incorporated in 2015, is a Florida Non-Profit Corporation, functioning as an  hereditary society for persons of Celtic roots and interests, who are of noble title or gentle birth, who have come together in search and celebration of the Celtic Heritage.


Mission and Purpose

The Noble Society of Celts was created with several guiding objectives:

  • Heritage Preservation: To recognize and honor the cultural, social, and historical contributions of Celtic peoples.
  • Genealogical Research: To encourage members to trace and document Celtic ancestry, whether through Scottish, Irish, Welsh, Cornish, Breton, or Galician lines.
  • International Fellowship: To build community among descendants of Celtic peoples across the globe.
  • Charitable and Educational Work: To support historical research, heritage events, and charitable projects related to Celtic culture.

Membership

Membership in the Noble Society of Celts is divided into three classes.

Class 1 – Heritary

Noble by Title: Recognized titles of nobility from Brittany, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, the Isle of Man and other lands whether hereditary or legally confirmed by the country of residence.

Noble by Tradition: Those persons ennobled by a Grant of Arms of the Lord Lyon of Scotland, the Chief Herald of Ireland, the Royal College of Arms, and other recognized national agencies of good repute whether governmental or private, including recognized religious grants by the Church of England, Ireland or Scotland, the Catholic Church and similar entities of international recognition and respect. Or, those with a proven lineage from a former Celtic King, Prince or Lord.  Full genealogical proof is required through the paternal or maternal bloodline.  Admission to Class 1 under this guideline is at the sole discretion of the Chancellor.

Class 2 – Non Hereditary

  • Persons of proven Celtic descent and of suitable  stature and standing in their communities by virtue of profession or accomplishment.
  • Persons who have achieved membership within a recognized international chivalric or religious Order.
  • Persons holding membership in nationally or internationally recognized hereditary societies with proven Celtic descent.

Class 3 – Non Hereditary

  • Persons of Celtic descent in good standing in their communities.
  • Persons of non-Celtic descent who are in good standing in their communities, and who exhibit sincere interest in Celtic history and heritage.

Activities and Contributions

Over the decades, the Noble Society of Celts has become active in a number of areas:

  • American gatherings that bring together members for cultural exchange and historical commemoration.
  • Genealogical support for members researching their Celtic roots, including collaboration with clan societies and Celtic heritage groups.
  • Charitable fundraising, often in support of cultural preservation projects and scholarships.
  • Publication of newsletters and research papers, highlighting Celtic history, traditions, and family genealogies.

The society also participates in broader international noble and heraldic organizations, linking Celtic identity with global heritage preservation efforts.


Conclusion

The Noble Society of Celts is more than a lineage society—it is a celebration of Celtic culture and identity. Since its founding in 1993, it has provided an international community for descendants of Celtic peoples, supported genealogical and historical research, and promoted the preservation of traditions that continue to resonate across the world.

By bridging the past and present, the society ensures that the enduring legacy of the Celts—warriors, poets, kings, and common folk alike—remains alive for future generations.

Sources

  1. Noble Society of Celts – Official Website
  2. The Court of Lord Lyon – Official Website
  3. The College of Arms – Official Website

One response to “The Noble Society of Celts: Celebrating Celtic Heritage”

  1. I love the format you are using with each of the societies!

    Sharon Sowders 770-853-4369 sharon.sowders@gmail.com

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About Me

I’m Carole Gunst and I created this site to share what I learn as I research my ancestors and lineage societies. I’m a member of the DAR, NSCDA, Jamestowne Society, the Society of the Ark and the Dove, National Society of US Daughters of 1812, and several others. I hope you enjoy this site as much as I enjoy working on it.