When you’re researching your family history, it’s easy to focus only on the records like births, deaths, marriages, and census. But are you overlooking a valuable resource? Genealogy societies are filled with the support and expertise you need to find your ancestors and tell their stories.
Let’s talk about the different types of genealogy societies, why you should consider joining one (or a few), and how to find them.
I am a member of the National Genealogical Society and vice-president of my local genealogical society. The information I gain, along with the networking opportunities, makes them worthwhile activities. Let’s see why…
Why Join a Genealogy Society?
Genealogy can be an isolated activity. It’s you, your computer, a stack of notes, and long nights spent following paper trails. But being part of a genealogy society opens the door to:
- Local expertise – Members know the area, the families, and the types of records that can be found.
- Learning opportunities – Many societies offer webinars, classes, or workshops.
- Access to records – Some records aren’t online. Societies often have access to collections or indexes.
- Community and support – You’ll find people who get just as excited about an 1850 census as you do.
- Events and conferences – These are great for making connections and improving your skills.
Whether you’re a beginner or have been researching for years, joining a genealogy society can help move your research forward.
1. Local Genealogical Societies
Start here. Local societies cover specific towns, counties, or regions. They often hold in-person meetings, help manage local archives, or work on indexing projects.
If you don’t live near where your ancestors lived, many genealogy societies hold Zoom meetings so you can still participate.
How to find them:
- Search online for “[county/town name] genealogy society.”
- Check local libraries or historical museums.
- Visit the state genealogy society website.
Example: Maine has almost a dozen local societies, each with knowledge of their area. They provide monthly meetings that are often free to the public that help further your research. The list of chapters can be found at https://maineroots.org/chapters
2. State Genealogical Societies
These groups cover an entire state and are often larger than local ones. They can publish newsletters or journals, maintain databases, and hold annual conferences.
Why it matters:
State societies give you a broader picture. If your ancestors moved around within a state, these societies can help connect the dots. They often include access to members-only databases or publications you won’t find elsewhere.
How to find them:
- Google “[state name] genealogical society.”
- Check links from national genealogy websites like NGSgenealogy.org.
Example: The Maine Genealogical Society is an excellent resource of knowledge and links. They also put on a day of learning each year. Check out the Events tab for more information.
3. Regional or National Genealogy Societies
These groups cover the entire country and support genealogists of all levels. Three major ones in the U.S. are:
- National Genealogical Society (NGS) – Link
- New England Historic Genealogical Society (NEHGS) – Link
- New York Genealogical and Biographical Society – Link
Why it matters:
They offer many educational opportunities and access to larger databases. Plus, they host national conferences and offer research help.
If you want to improve your skills, this is a great step.
4. Ethnic or Heritage Societies
Was your ancestor German, Irish, Jewish, African American, or Indigenous? There are societies that focus specifically on ethnic groups or cultural backgrounds.
Why it matters:
Researching within a specific cultural context is important. Naming patterns, record types, and even handwriting styles vary. These societies can guide you through records that are in another language or based in another country.
Examples:
- Afro-American Historical and Genealogical Society (AAHGS) – Link
- Ulster Historical Foundation (for Irish ancestors) – Link
- International Association of Jewish Genealogical Societies – Link
How to find them:
- Search for your heritage + “genealogy society.”
- Look at lists of ethnic societies through Cyndi’s List – Link
5. Lineage Societies
Lineage societies require you to prove a direct line to a particular ancestor. Some that are well-known include:
- Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) – Link
- Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) – Link
- General Society of Mayflower Descendants – Link
Why it matters:
These societies can offer prestige and a sense of accomplishment. You belong to a group that not everyone can join. But they also have a strong, well-documented application process, which means the research is solid. If you’re accepted, your family line is often added to a national database, which can help others.
They often have great libraries, too.
How to find them:
- Visit their official websites.
- Ask others in genealogy groups if they’ve gone through the application process.
6. Surname Societies
These groups focus on one last name (or variations of it). They’re especially helpful if you’re researching a rare or unusual surname.
Why it matters:
You may find other researchers working on the same family line. Some societies even organize DNA studies, collect family stories, or maintain family trees.
How to find them:
- Google your surname + “genealogy society.”
- Search social media or FamilyTreeDNA surname projects.
- The Surname Society is a non-profit based in the UK.
- Guild of One-Name Studies provides members a chance to share information about their surname.
7. Online Genealogy Communities
While not societies in the traditional sense, don’t ignore online communities. Many Facebook groups, etc., function much like a society with help and resources.
Why it matters:
Sometimes you’re not near a local society, or your ancestor lived halfway across the country. Online groups let you join a community no matter where you are.
How to find them:
- Try Facebook groups like “Genealogy 101” or “New England Genealogy.”
- Explore Reddit’s genealogy board at reddit.com/r/Genealogy
What to Expect When You Join
Each society is a little different, but most offer:
- A monthly or quarterly newsletter
- Access to exclusive databases or record collections
- Educational programs or events
- Member discounts on books or workshops
Some charge annual dues (usually $20–$50), while others are free. Many offer digital membership options, which are great if you don’t live nearby.
Finally
Joining a genealogy society is one of the smartest moves you can make as a family historian. Not only do you gain access to resources and expertise, but you also become part of a community that’s just as passionate about the past as you are.
You don’t have to join them all. Start with one or two that match your research goals. Look at where your ancestors lived, what their heritage was, or what brick wall you’re stuck on right now, and see if there’s a society that fits.
Historical societies are an excellent resource as well. Check out my blog post, “Hidden Treasures Found In A Historical Society.”
Genealogy tip: The beauty of joining genealogy societies is the networking. You’ll be able to ask questions of others who are knowledgeable in areas you aren’t. And you may be able to help someone else with the expertise you have.
If you have a genealogy question or a brick wall ancestor that you need help with, a professional genealogist, like me 🙂 may be able to help. Click below to set up your free 30-minute, no-obligation consultation.
