Since 1909 The Swedish Colonial Society's publications, research and archives have been the foundation for studies of New Sweden Colony and the colonists.  The Society collects and preserves the world's largest collection of historical and genealogical material relating to America’s first Swedes and Finns.  Membership is open to all interested in history and those who can prove descent from a colonial Swede or Finn are designated as Forefather Members.

The Society is honored to have as its High Patron H.M. King Carl XVI of Sweden and as Patron, His Excellency Bjorn Lyrvall, Ambassador of Sweden to the United States.