Founders and Patriots of America, Order of the

About the Order of Founders and Patriots of America

The Order of Founders and Patriots of America (OFPA) is a nonpolitical, nonsectarian hereditary patriotic society founded in 1896 to honor individuals whose ancestors both established the American colonies and later supported or defended the cause of American independence. The Order uniquely bridges America’s colonial foundations and the Revolutionary era.

Who the Society Represents

The Order of Founders and Patriots of America represents men who are direct descendants of two distinct qualifying ancestors: one who was a founder of an American colony prior to independence and another who rendered military, naval, civil, or patriotic service during the American Revolutionary War. Through this dual-lineage requirement, the Order emphasizes continuity from colonial settlement to national independence.

What the Society Does

• Preserves and promotes the history of America’s colonial founders and Revolutionary patriots
• Encourages advanced genealogical research and lineage documentation
• Supports historical scholarship, publications, and educational initiatives
• Promotes patriotism and civic responsibility rooted in early American history
• Engages members in commemorative ceremonies and historical programs

Where the Society Operates

The Order of Founders and Patriots of America operates through a national organization with state societies across the United States. Activities are conducted at the national, state, and local levels, including meetings, educational programs, and commemorative events.

Member Eligibility Requirements

Membership in the Order of Founders and Patriots of America is hereditary and based on verified dual lineage.

• Applicants must be men aged 18 or older.
• Applicants must prove direct lineal descent from a colonial founder who settled in America prior to independence.
• Applicants must also prove direct lineal descent from a Revolutionary War patriot who rendered military, naval, civil, or patriotic service between 1774 and 1783.
• The two qualifying ancestors may be the same individual if both criteria are satisfied.
• Applicants must submit acceptable genealogical documentation establishing both lines of descent.
• Applicants must be of good moral character and support the objectives of the Order.
• Final approval of membership is granted through the appropriate state society in accordance with Order bylaws.

How Membership Is Structured

Membership is administered through state societies affiliated with the national organization. Members participate in meetings, historical research initiatives, educational outreach, commemorative events, and governance activities that advance the Order’s mission of honoring America’s founders and patriots.