Colony and Commonwealth: 1638–1790 

The purposes of the society are given in its 1906 charter (Listed Above).  Though it is not specifically stated in the charter, the Society was founded as nonprofit and educational. Originally, the membership was limited to the descendants (male or female) of those who were passengers on the Welcome.  Presently, membership is composed of descendants of those ancestors who traveled with fellow Quakers to America during the course of the year of 1682.  This includes 22 ships and 23 crossings of the Atlantic.