The most difficult part of anything is getting started. It will be easier in the beginning to start with yourself and work back through the generations.

Keep in mind that you are interested in four key items: names, relationships, dates and places (birth, marriage, death).

We suggest that you use the sample GSMD Preliminary Review Form.

Every applicant shall complete in full a Proposal for Membership (see page 3). Detach and return it to the Membership Officer whose address appears on page 1.

Anyone who can document his or her lineage from one of the following twenty-nineMayflower passengers is eligible to apply for membership in the Society of Mayflower Descendants. Although one need not be a resident in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania in order to join, and the Pennsylvania Society welcomes all who wish join, prospective applicants are cautioned that if they live outside of the Commonwealth, with the exception of General Society events, they will only receive notification of events held within the Commonwealth. Thus if they anticipate taking an active part in the Society of Mayflower Descendants by holding office, serving on committees, attending social events, etc., they would do best by applying to the state Society in which they reside. Additionally, if a move to a state other than the one in which they plan to join is anticipated, they should be aware that Life Memberships are not transferable. Dual membership, however is possible, but dues are then payable to each state society.