The National Society of New England Women (NSNEW) is a patriotic and heritage organization dedicated to preserving the history, ideals, and enduring influence of the women and men who settled the New England colonies. Since its founding in 1895, the society has celebrated New England’s formative role in shaping American values, education, and civic life — while providing opportunities for women across the nation to engage in historical, cultural, and charitable endeavors.
Formation of the Society
The National Society of New England Women was founded in 1895 by a group of women of New England descent who sought to honor their ancestral heritage and promote civic virtue. The society’s founding occurred during the height of the American lineage society movement.
The early founders, many of whom were active in educational and cultural philanthropy, were inspired by the legacy of their ancestors — the men and women who had established the six original New England colonies:
- Massachusetts
- Connecticut
- Rhode Island
- New Hampshire
- Vermont
- Maine
The society quickly gained prominence for its commitment to combining educational projects with patriotic projects, reflecting the strong sense of civic responsibility long associated with the region’s Puritan and colonial roots.
Membership
Membership in the NSNEW is open to women who can prove lineal descent from an ancestor born in New England prior to 1789 or from an ancestor who was a resident of New England before that date. Applicants are required to submit genealogical documentation verifying their lineage.
Over the decades, membership has included women from across the United States — including those whose ancestors migrated westward during the country’s expansion, carrying New England ideals of education, self-reliance, and civic duty with them.
Local and state-level “colonies” of the Society exist nationwide, each organizing charitable projects, historical programs, and educational scholarships aligned with the Society’s mission.
Activities and Contributions
The National Society of New England Women has remained active in preserving historical memory and promoting community engagement through a variety of programs:
- Educational Support: The Society funds scholarships and provides educational assistance for students pursuing higher education.
- Community Service: Local colonies sponsor civic projects, cultural events, and volunteer initiatives.
- Meetings and Conferences: The national organization hosts gatherings where members share research, honor outstanding service, and coordinate national programs.
Legacy and Continuing Relevance
For more than a century, the National Society of New England Women has provided a bridge between America’s colonial past and its modern civic culture. While the Society’s roots lie in genealogy and history, its continued vitality stems from its ongoing work in education, philanthropy, and cultural preservation.
By emphasizing both heritage and humanitarianism, the NSNEW embodies the spirit of its ancestors — pioneers who valued hard work, education, and moral leadership. Its members, in turn, carry forward those ideals, ensuring that the legacy of New England’s founders remains a living influence in the nation’s civic and cultural life.
Lineage Society History 
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