Membership
Membership at DHF
Intentional, structured, and rooted in both historical accountability and cultural responsibility.
Descendants of Heritage and Freedom™ offers two membership pathways — plus dedicated genealogical research services to help you discover and document your family story.
Heritage Membership
Heritage Membership
Annual Dues
Heritage Membership is for individuals who support the mission of Descendants of Heritage and Freedom and wish to participate in our educational programs, preservation initiatives, events, and organizational activities.
No lineage documentation is required for Heritage Membership.
Verified Lineage Membership
Verified Lineage Membership
Initial Application Fee
- $50 Annual Membership Dues
- $100 Lineage Verification Review Fee
Verified Lineage Membership is for individuals who have already identified a qualifying ancestor and possess genealogical documentation demonstrating their lineage connection.
The $100 verification fee covers review and evaluation of submitted documentation, correspondence regarding any additional records needed, final determination, and establishment of lineage records.
Once approved, annual renewal is $50 per year.
Verified Lineage
Benefits of Verified Lineage Membership
Verified Lineage Members receive all Heritage Member benefits, plus the distinction and recognition that comes with documenting and preserving a verified ancestral connection to a qualifying patriot, soldier, or ancestor recognized by DHF.
Official DHF Lineage Recognition
Receive formal recognition by Descendants of Heritage and Freedom as a verified descendant of a qualifying ancestor.
Inclusion in the DHF Ancestor Registry
Your qualifying ancestor will be preserved within the official DHF Ancestor Registry, helping ensure their service, sacrifice, and legacy are remembered for future generations.
Personalized Lineage Certificate
Receive an official DHF Lineage Certificate recognizing your verified ancestral connection.
Preservation of Family History
Your documented lineage becomes part of DHF's historical and genealogical preservation efforts.
Verified Lineage Member Designation
Eligible to identify yourself as a Verified Lineage Member of Descendants of Heritage and Freedom.
Eligibility for Lineage-Based Recognition Programs
Participation in future lineage-based recognitions, heritage initiatives, commemorative projects, and preservation activities developed by DHF.
Foundational Legacy Recognition
As an early Verified Lineage Member, you help establish the historical foundation upon which DHF is built and contribute to preserving the stories of African American patriots and soldiers for future generations.
"Verified Lineage Membership is more than membership — it is the formal preservation and recognition of your family's place in American history."
Permanent Historical Record
The DHF Ancestor Registry
The DHF Ancestor Registry is a permanent historical record honoring verified African American patriots, soldiers, and other qualifying ancestors documented through DHF's lineage verification process.
Through this registry, DHF preserves the names, service, and legacy of those whose contributions helped shape our nation while ensuring their descendants remain connected to their stories.
Please note: Only verified ancestors documented through DHF's lineage verification process are eligible for inclusion in the DHF Ancestor Registry.
Discover Your Family Story
Genealogical Research Services
DHF offers genealogical research assistance through qualified researchers for individuals who wish to identify, document, and preserve their family history.
Research services are available to Heritage Members who need assistance locating a qualifying ancestor or documenting their lineage.
How the Process Works
Become a Heritage Member.
Request Genealogical Research Assistance.
A DHF-affiliated genealogist reviews the information provided.
The genealogist prepares a research assessment and estimated scope of work.
The individual decides whether to proceed with the proposed research project.
If a qualifying ancestor is identified and documented, the individual may apply for Verified Lineage Membership.
Research Fees
Genealogical research services are separate from membership dues and lineage verification fees. Because every family history is unique, research costs are determined on a case-by-case basis based on the complexity and scope of the project. A research estimate will be provided before any work begins.
Important Information
Payment for genealogical research services does not guarantee identification of a qualifying ancestor or approval for Verified Lineage Membership. All lineage applications remain subject to DHF's verification standards and review process.
Compare
Which Path Is Right for You?
| Heritage Member | Verified Lineage Member | Genealogical Research ServicesResearch services are available to Heritage and Verified Lineage Members. | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Support the mission & participate | Document & preserve verified ancestry | Professional assistance identifying, documenting, and verifying ancestral connections |
| Documentation Required | None | Genealogical documentation | None to begin |
| Membership Status | Heritage Member | Verified Lineage Member | Service (not a membership) |
| Lineage Verification Included | |||
| Research Assistance Available | |||
| Annual Cost | $50 | $150 initial, then $50 annually | $50 Heritage Membership + Custom Research Quote |
| Application Process | Join online | Apply + verification review | Become a Heritage Member → Request Research Consultation → Receive Custom Quote |
Statement of Integrity
"DHF maintains a clear distinction between verified lineage and cultural affiliation to ensure both historical accuracy and inclusive participation."
This distinction preserves the integrity of our history while allowing for meaningful and intentional participation.
Begin Your Journey
Not Sure Where to Start?
Whether you already know your family history or are beginning your journey of discovery, DHF can help you honor, preserve, and celebrate the legacy of your ancestors.