National Society Descendants of American Farmers

On February 17, 2019, founders Janisue Rigel and Davena Rigel-Liepman met with friends over lunch. During the meal, someone proposed starting a new organization. While that particular idea didn’t resonate with Janisue and Davena, it sparked a deeper conversation.

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For over four years, Davena had dreamed of honoring the American farmer—a vision Janisue wholeheartedly shared. The two presented their own concept: a society devoted to celebrating the legacy, contributions, and enduring spirit of American farmers. The response was unanimous—everyone around the table said yes.

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That very evening, fueled by purpose and passion, Janisue dove headfirst into bringing the idea to life. From that moment forward, the National Society Descendants of American Farmers began its journey, rooted in gratitude and guided by the belief that the American farmer is truly worthy of honor.

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What began as a vision became a reality on March 5, 2019. The National Society Descendants of American Farmers (NSDOAF)—a co-ed, non-political, tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organization—was officially established, transforming a simple idea into a lasting tribute to the spirit and legacy of the American farmer.

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The National Society Descendants of American Farmers (NSDOAF) is dedicated to honoring the legacy of American farmers who cultivated the land between July 4, 1776 and July 4, 1914. This expansive window reflects a pivotal era in our nation’s history—embracing not only those who laid the agricultural foundation of our country, but also the immigrants who arrived in the wake of various wars, bringing with them a spirit of resilience and a deep connection to the soil.

 

By honoring a rich and inclusive agricultural heritage, NSDOAF ensures that the stories of early American farmers endure through their descendants. As a proud 501(c)(3) charitable organization, the society not only preserves the past—it invests in the future. Through scholarships that support education in agriculture and farming, NSDOAF empowers the next generation to carry forward the legacy of stewardship, resilience, and innovation that defines the American farmer.

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Since its founding in 2019, the National Society Descendants of American Farmers (NSDOAF) has awarded more than $100,000 in scholarships to college juniors and beyond who are pursuing degrees in agriculture and farming. In fact, 60% of each member’s one-time registration fee directly funds these scholarships—ensuring the society’s commitment to cultivating the next generation of agricultural leaders.

 

NSDOAF’s mission stands on three pillars:

• Honoring ancestral farmers who worked the land between 1776 and 1914

• Supporting future farmers through educational scholarships

• Recognizing today’s farmers with Certificates of Appreciation

 

As a national organization, NSDOAF is led by a dedicated board representing all regions of the United States. The board meets virtually via Zoom, promoting accessibility and eliminating the need for a traditional chapter structure. Additionally, the society hosts educational webinars open to all members, each offering insights into agricultural practices, history, or innovation. Archived webinars are available on the NSDOAF website.

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One in-person board meeting is held annually in Washington, D.C., just prior to the Daughters of the American Revolution’s Continental Congress—underscoring NSDOAF’s deep roots in American heritage.

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Membership is open to individuals who can document direct descent from a farmer active between July 4, 1776 and July 4, 1914, using genealogical proofs common to most lineage societies—such as census records or wills.

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In 2023, NSDOAF expanded its vision to honor and remember the farmer’s wife. Members may now submit a supplemental application if the wife is listed alongside her husband in census records. The board acknowledges that such women were often labeled as “housekeepers,” yet their contributions were indispensable to the success and survival of American farms.

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The NSDOAF website serves as an information hub for members and those interested in joining. With over 1,500 members and growing, the society continues to honor ancestral farmers, celebrate current ones, and support those who will shape the future of agriculture.

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We invite you to be part of this living legacy:
Honor your farmer. Celebrate today’s stewards of the land. Support tomorrow’s innovators.

 

 

​We welcome inquiries – call President National, Renee Hamilton at: 865-777-0092 or email PresidentRenee@nsdoaf.com