News & Events Support Contact Us Login About Us Welcome from the President NSCDA History Officers & National Board Staff Awards Careers Membership Preservation Great American Treasures Sampler Survey Collections Treasures 250 Scholarships, Grants, & Awards American Heritage Local Impact Awards American Indian Medical Scholarship Attingham Scholarship Congressional Essay Contest Awards Mission In Action Local & State Outreach Civic Engagement Lectures & Presentations Service to the Military Ancestry Register of Ancestors Founding Females Biography Index

Welcoming Our Newest Americans

Dames participate in citizenship ceremonies and welcome receptions for new citizens of all ages. Learn More

A Dame Good Time

Dames from across the nation gather and reconnect in person at a beloved destination. Learn More

Across 42 states and the District of Columbia, our 15,000+ members are caretakers of historic places and the histories within them. They are women of action in their communities and champions of our nation’s ongoing story.

Striving to inspire pride in our nation and its compelling, complex history.

Featured News & Events

View All

What's with the Dame name?

While our name may sound a bit quaint, it's a part of our identity that we hold dear. It's a connection to our past, to our mothers, aunts, grandmothers, and beyond. But make no mistake—our organization is not stuck in the past. Our members and our mission are firmly rooted in the present, inspiring us to make an impact in these modern times.

NSCDA

While the word Dame is admittedly an archaic term for a woman, “dames” was a term for teachers in early America. Dame schools were small, local, privately-run schools for children age two to five and taught by a local woman who would care for them and teach them ABCs for a small fee.

Opening doors to history

Our members are passionate about preservation, education, and community engagement. Click the link below to learn more about NSCDA's membership. NSCDA Membership

Working to Make a Difference

500+ Interviews

completed by our members for the Veterans History Project of the Library of Congress American Folklife Center.

70+ Historic Sites

from Great American Treasures help tell America's origin stories.

25 "Puppies with a Purpose"

sponsored through America’s VetDogs for the benefit of U.S. military veterans.

14 Native American Students

pursuing careers in healthcare received financial assistance in 2023 through AIMS.

$168,000+

in scholarship assistance was awarded to students in American History-related fields across the country.

226 Female Ancestors

in the Register of Ancestors as part of our 250 by 250 Founding Females initiative.

Support the NSCDA

We want to keep the doors open to welcome visitors of all ages so they can add their voices to the ongoing American story. Your contributions help us support NSCDA's mission areas and the volunteer work that benefits your communities. Learn more about donating to the NSCDA today. About Us Support Us