A Genealogical Quest for Identity: The Lineage Society
The journey to discover the identities and lives of our ancestors can begin for many reasons, and a sense of purpose for this journey can change along the way. Intrigued by research a cousin had produced on my paternal grandfather’s line, I quickly became addicted to immersing myself in history from a very personal perspective. I extended the work my cousin did, and began to work from scratch on the lines of my other three grandparents.
Several years into my genealogy research, I found at least a temporary sense of purpose in lineage societies. These are selective groups, often over 100 years old, which recognize specific ancestors for military, geographical, or other reasons. Excited about the feedback and common purpose I could share with members of these societies and verification of my research through their stringent admission processes, I was soon able to join the Sons of the American Revolution after discovering the first of several ancestors who fought in the Revolutionary War. I soon after also attained membership in Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War, the General Society of the War of 1812, and a lifetime membership to the Pulaski County (Missouri) Historical Society.
There are various feelings of accomplishment upon gaining entry to a lineage society. There is a connection to your ancestor when you are able to verify they participated in a certain historical event or lived in a specific area. Most lineage societies keep records, so there is the satisfaction of knowing you not only have linked your ancestor to yourself, but you have linked them to their participation in history for posterity. And as genealogy societies offer insignia to indicate your membership, there is a sense of belonging as you are visibly tied to others whose ancestors played similar roles in the course of human events.
The insignia of honor societies are quite varied and numerous. To wear this ever growing collection of medals on your chest elicits a sense of pride, but also to those of us who served in the military, perhaps a sense of self-consciousness. Our modern day understanding of medals and ribbons is associated almost exclusively with military service, and a large collection of these is associated with heroism, bravery, valor, courage, etc. The meanings behind medals and insignia of lineage societies are quite different. The insignia are associated with heritage, and perhaps devotion to the principles upon which those societies was founded. Other medals bestowed by lineage societies honor service, commitment, dedication, scholarship, merit, etc. The decorations of lineage societies are not medals of heroism, bravery, courage, and honor, and those who wear them certainly do not intend for them to be seen as such.
The quest to learn about your ancestors is one which is never completed. On this journey you will learn about history from a personal perspective, you will find you qualify for admittance into several different lineage societies, and you will build character and become wiser in the process. If you need any help with a lineage society application, just contact us and, we will be glad to assist you in your process or to undertake the entire application process for you.
Singing out,
Randy
