A Vision Founded in Plymouth
The Mayflower Society was founded in Plymouth, Massachusetts, in 1897. A group of descendants recognized the urgent need for a national society to honor the memory of the 1620 Pilgrims. Their primary intention was to preserve the legacy of those who established Plymouth Colony in what was then called the northern part of Virginia. While the national headquarters maintains the official lineage records and the historic Mayflower Society House, the true heartbeat of the organization lives within the individual State Societies. These organizations ensure that the Pilgrim story is celebrated across the entire country rather than being confined to New England.
Bringing the Legacy to the South
As the national movement grew, state societies became the essential connective tissue of the overall narrative. The Society of Mayflower Descendants in Alabama was established on December 6, 1952, in Birmingham. We serve as the vital link between Alabama residents and their ancestral roots. By organizing at the state level, we provide personalized genealogical assistance and regional gatherings that keep our shared heritage vibrant for tens of millions of descendants nationwide.
Local Homes for a Historic Mission
To better serve our members across the state, we have established four distinct colony charters. These colonies are where our history meets our daily lives. They represent the most personal level of the Mayflower narrative, allowing descendants to gather, share research, and participate in community service.
| Colony Name | Founding Date | Role in the Alabama Narrative |
|---|---|---|
| Gulf Coast | April 26, 1986 | Preserving maritime and colonial history along the Alabama coast. |
| Capital | April 7, 1990 | Engaging with state leadership and historical archives in Montgomery. |
| Tennessee Valley | October 21, 1991 | Bringing the Pilgrim spirit to the communities of North Alabama. |
| Cahaba River | February 18, 2016 | Serving as a modern hub for genealogical excellence in Birmingham. |
Membership and National Connection
Membership in the Alabama Society provides a direct connection to the General Society in Plymouth. Every third September, members from all over the country gather in Massachusetts for meetings and tours. You also receive the Mayflower Quarterly, which provides a wealth of information about history and genealogy. By joining a local committee like Education or Finance, you help keep our Mayflower Society strong and vital in a rapidly changing world.
