Organization & Mission
The General Society of Colonial Wars is a lineage society composed of men who trace their descent from forebears who, in military, naval, or civil positions of high trust and responsibility, by acts or counsel, assisted in the establishment, defense, and preservation of the mainland American colonies of Great Britain. Over 23,000 men have joined the organization since its beginnings in 1892. Typically, there are 4,000 to 4,500 active members at any time.
The Society of Colonial Wars was founded in New York in 1892 by Samuel Victor Constant to further the interest in, and study of, America’s Colonial history for the period between the settlement of Jamestown, Virginia, on May 13, 1607, and the battle of Lexington on April 19, 1775. In 1893, the General Society began to charter state societies to build an organization of national scope. Currently, there are multiple state societies across the country, including states that were not part of the original Thirteen Colonies.
Samuel Victor Constant, Esq.
The Society has long sought to improve public awareness of the importance of colonial events and the individuals that shaped America. A number of monuments, plaques, and markers have been installed by the General and State Societies at sites nationally. The Societies also fund research and educational initiatives on the colonial period, including the Samuel Victor Constant Fellowships awarded annually for postgraduate study of the history of Colonial America.
The Society continues its mission by collecting and preserving manuscripts, rolls, relics, and records; erecting memorials; hosting commemorations; and supporting academic research and providing scholarships for those who are working to advance the study of colonial history.
The Illinois Society
The Illinois Society has an annual calendar of events for our members. Our schedule of events includes:
- Quarterly Luncheons and Business Meetings: Once a quarter, the Society convenes luncheon meetings in downtown Chicago consisting of a business meeting followed by a luncheon with remarks on a topic of early American history or other subjects of interest.
- General Court and Annual Dinner: The Society’s annual meeting is held each December in downtown Chicago. Following a business meeting, cocktails, and dinner, the evening includes a program with remarks from a distinguished guest speaker.
- Speaker Series: In conjunction with the Newberry, the Society sponsors lectures on Colonial history, which are open to the public.
- Summer Court: In late spring, the Society holds its Summer Court on the North Shore with a business meeting and a luncheon with a guest speaker.
- Summer Dinner Dance: In mid-summer, the Society hosts a dinner dance on the North Shore with live music and dancing. This is one of our most charming dinners and is a favorite among our members.
- Joint Events with the Colonial Dames: The Society periodically joins with the Illinois society of the National Society of the Colonial Dames of America to co-host events promoting friendly and collaborative relations between our respective societies. These gatherings include annual luncheons, dinners, and other festive events.
