Founded on September 10, 1980, the National Society Descendants of Early Quakers (NSDEQ) is a hereditary organization dedicated to preserving the history, genealogy, and legacy of the Religious Society of Friends. Although inspired by the values and historical contributions of early Quakers, the society notes that it has no official affiliation with the modern Religious Society of Friends (Quakers).
The Society welcomes descendants from around the world whose ancestors were among the early members of the Society of Friends (1835 or before) and promotes research into one of the best-documented religious communities in history.
Mission and Objectives
The National Society Descendants of Early Quakers has established four principal objectives:
- Promote historical research.
- Encourage scholarly efforts to preserve family records and documents, as well as records of the Society of Friends.
- Promote appreciation for the remarkably accurate and extensive records maintained by Quaker meetings.
- Foster interest in Quaker genealogy and family history.
These goals reflect the Society’s commitment not only to genealogy but also to preserving one of the richest documentary traditions in early American history.
Who Qualifies for Membership?
One aspect that distinguishes the National Society Descendants of Early Quakers from many other lineage organizations is its broad eligibility.
Membership is open to men, women, and children who can establish either lineal or collateral descent from an early member of the Society of Friends who lived in 1835 or earlier, anywhere in the world. Junior membership is available from birth through age 25.
Unlike many hereditary societies that require direct lineal descent, the inclusion of collateral descent allows descendants through siblings and other qualifying family relationships to become members, provided the required genealogical documentation is submitted.
Because Quakers maintained exceptionally detailed Monthly Meeting records documenting births, marriages, deaths, transfers of membership, and disciplinary actions, applicants often find that proving Quaker ancestry is aided by a remarkable documentary trail.
How to Join
Prospective members begin by documenting their descent from a qualifying early Friend and contacting the Society’s National Corresponding Clerk for application materials and guidance. The Society reviews each lineage before approving membership.
As of the 2025–2027 brochure, membership fees are:
- $35 non-refundable application fee
- $200 Adult Life Membership (payable upon approval of the lineage)
- $20 Junior Membership, which is credited toward the Adult Life Membership when the member reaches age 25.
Notable Early Quakers
The Society’s brochure highlights several prominent Friends whose influence extended throughout colonial America, including:
- William Penn, Founder and Proprietor of Pennsylvania
- John Archdale, Governor of North Carolina
- John Coggeshall, Governor of Rhode Island
- Samuel Jennings, Governor of West Jersey
- Poet John Greenleaf Whittier
- Artist Benjamin West
These individuals represent only a small portion of the many Quakers whose contributions shaped American government, literature, art, commerce, and religious freedom.
Sources and References
Primary Sources
Lineage Society History 
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