Northern Nevada Colony
Honoring our Heritage from the High Desert of the Sierra Nevadas
The Northern Nevada Colony is the dedicated regional hub for descendants residing in the Reno-Tahoe and Carson City sectors, as well as the surrounding rural counties of Douglas, Lyon and Storey. We serve as a local home for those who wish to honor their Pilgrim ancestry through fellowship, meticulous genealogical research, and community engagement.
Our Regional Focus:
While we are united by a common ancestry, the NNC is defined by its unique connection to the history and landscape of Northern Nevada. Our members are stewards of the true Pilgrim spirit in the Silver State’s northern reaches, ensuring the principles of the Mayflower Company remain a fundamental part of our local civic identity.
What We Do:
Genealogical Collaboration
We provided a network for members to share research, verify lineages, and navigate the rigorous standards of the General Society.
Historical Preservation
Our colony supports local projects that highlight the intersection of Nevada’s state history and our shared colonial heritage.
Educational Outreach
We strive to ignite a passion for history in local schools and community organizations, sharing the story of the 1620 voyage and its impact on modern self-governance.
Fellowship & Meetings
From informal gatherings to formal seasonal luncheons, we foster a sense of connection that spans across generations through the Reno-Tahoe and Carson City area.
Governed by a local board of officers, The Northern Nevada Colony operates with transparency and a commitment to our members. Whether you are a verified descendant or a prospective member navigating your family tree, our local officers are here to assist you while you navigate your path to membership.
Areas We Serve:
- Washoe County (Reno-Sparks)
- Carson City (State Capital)
- Lake Tahoe Basin
- Douglas County (Minden/Gardnerville)
- Lyon County (Ferney/Yerington)
- Storey County (Virginia City)
Ready to Discover Your Roots?
If you believe you are a descendants of a Mayflower passenger and reside in Northern Nevada, we invite you to join our community. Let us help you document your place in American history.
Northern Nevada Events & Gatherings
The Northern Nevada Colony (NNC) centers its calendar around key historical commemorations and local fellowship. While we host special one-time events, our annual highlights include:
- Annual Compact Day (November): The most significant event for all Nevada descendants, commemorating the signing of the Mayflower Compact on November 11, 1620. Hosting rotates annually between the Northern Nevada Colony and the Southern Nevada Colony (Las Vegas). These gatherings typically feature a formal luncheon, a guest speaker on Pilgrim history, and a joint state-level meeting.
- NNC Annual Business Meeting (September/October): Every Fall, the Northern Colony meets to elect local officers and plan the upcoming year’s activities.
- Heritage Partner Collaborations: The NNC maintains strong ties with fellow lineage and historical societies in the Reno-Tahoe area to promote ancestral education. You can often find our members or information booths at:
- Genoa Western Heritage Day Celebration (April): A celebration of Nevada’s oldest settlements where we share information about Pilgrim history and lineage research.
- Local History Festivals: We frequently participate in events like the Mark Twain Festival in Carson City, engaging with the public and supporting regional historic preservation.