Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Society of the Cincinnati?
The Society of the Cincinnati is the nation’s oldest patriotic organization, founded in 1783 by veteran officers of the Revolutionary War. Today, it is a nonprofit historical and educational organization, as well as a hereditary membership organization, that promotes an appreciation for the achievement of American independence through library, museum, and educational programs and other efforts. Click here for more information on the Society.
What is the American Revolution Institute of the Society of the Cincinnati?
The Society of the Cincinnati launched the American Revolution Institute in 2014 to renew appreciation of the history and ideals of our revolutionary generation. As a division of the Society of the Cincinnati, the American Revolution Institute is dedicated solely to promoting understanding and appreciation of the American Revolution and its legacy. The Institute supports advanced study, presents exhibitions and other public programs, advocates preservation, and provides resources to teachers and students to enrich understanding of our War for Independence and the principles of the men and women who secured the liberty of the American people. To learn more about the Institute’s goals and resources, visit www.americanrevolutioninstitute.org.
Where do I find the Society’s educational resources on the American Revolution?
Our educational resources on the American Revolution are located on the website of the Society’s American Revolution Institute. These free resources include lesson plans and other resources for teachers, our strategy video game Revolutionary Choices, videos of lectures by historians and other experts, online exhibitions, library and museum collections catalogs, and more. Visit www.americanrevolutioninstitute.org to find out more.
How do I learn more about becoming a member of the Society?
Members of the Society are qualified male descendants of officers of the Continental Army and Navy and their French counterparts during the Revolutionary War. Visit the Membership section for more detailed membership guidelines.
Does the Society or its American Revolution Institute accept charitable donations?
Yes. The Society is an IRS 501 (c)(3) organization, and the Institute is a division of the Society. So charitable contributions are welcomed as our educational programs and endowment depend on private support. Both the Society and the Institute receive unrestricted and designated contributions as well as gifts-in-kind. (Some of our most notable collections objects are the result of generous in-kind donations.) For more information and to donate online, click here.
Is Anderson House open to the public?
Yes! Anderson House is one of the premier historic house museums in the Washington, D.C., area in addition to being the home of the Society’s library and education programs. Click here to learn more about visiting Anderson House.
How do I arrange to do research in the library?
The Society’s library is open to researchers by appointment Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. There is no fee for using the library. Contact us at library@societyofthecincinnati.org or 202.785.2040 x411 to make an appointment. For more information on using the library, click here.
Is it possible to host a private event at Anderson House?
Yes. Anderson House is a spectacular location for corporate dinners, private parties, wedding receptions, and other events. Visit the Site Rentals section for information on spaces, rates, and more.
Is Anderson House accessible by wheelchair?
Yes. There is an accessible entrance with a ramp into the building from the front courtyard. The second floor of Anderson House is accessible by elevator. If you have other special needs or would like to discuss accommodations before your arrival, please call us at 202.785.2040.