More than a name.
A shared story.

For more than a century, the Association has collected, preserved, and shared the genealogical and historical record of the Willard family.

What began as an organization for descendants of Simon, George, and Margery Willard has grown into something broader: a place for Willards and family-history researchers to connect, discover their roots, and help preserve what comes next.

Our History

More than a history. A community.

In 1907, a group of Willards in Pennsylvania began organizing, and in 1908 the Major Simon Willard Descendants organization was formally established in Winchester, New Hampshire.

Since then, the Association has brought together generations of Willards to collect, preserve, and share our family’s history.

In 1912, Willard descendants gathered at Faneuil Hall in Boston — an early reunion in our history. Today, that tradition continues through reunions, shared stories, and a growing community of Willards and family historians.

A History Worth Following

From 1634 to today, generations of Willards have helped preserve the stories, records, and connections that make up our family history.

Here are a few of the moments that shaped that journey.

1634/35: The Willards Arrive

Simon Willard, his half-brother George, and their sister Margery leave Horsmonden, Kent, England, and immigrate to the Massachusetts Bay Colony.

Their arrival marks the beginning of the Willard family story in America.

1858: The Willard Memoir

Joseph Willard (1798–1865) compiles and publishes The Willard Memoir: The Life and Times of Major Simon Willard.

The book becomes an important early record of Simon Willard and his family.

1907: An Association Begins

A group of Pennsylvania Willards come together to form an early family association, laying the groundwork for the organization.

1908: The Major Simon Willard Descendants

The Simon Willard Association is formed in Winchester, New Hampshire. Its purpose is simple but enduring: to preserve and share Willard family history.

1912: Gathering at Faneuil Hall

Willard descendants gather in Boston for a family reunion at Faneuil Hall. The tradition of bringing the family together continues.

1915: The Willard Genealogy

Charles Henry Pope compiles and edits Willard Genealogy: Sequel to the Willard Memoir.

The volume expands the genealogical record and becomes an important resource for generations of family researchers.

1958: The Willard Family Association of America

The organization is incorporated under the name Willard Family Association of America, Inc.

The association continues its work of preserving Willard history and connecting descendants.

1967: A Constitution for the Future

The Association adopts its Constitution and Bylaws, establishing a formal foundation for its continued work.

1972: The First Genealogical Supplement

Willard descendants gather in Boston for a family reunion at historic Faneuil Hall.

The tradition of bringing the family together continues.

1989: Another Branch Preserved

Descendants of Henry Willard, of Still River, Massachusetts is published, continuing the work of documenting the descendants of Major Simon Willard.

Today: The Story Continues

More than a century after the Association was founded, the work continues.

The Willard Family Association of America welcomes people researching the Willard family, descendants of Willard daughters and sons, and anyone interested in preserving and discovering family history.

Because there are still stories to find.

Every photo, story, recipe, document, and memory helps us build a richer picture of the Willard family. Whether it's a family tradition, a place that's meaningful to you, or a piece of history you've uncovered, we'd love to include it.