The Native Sons of the Golden West (NSGW) is a fraternal order with roots dating back almost to the founding of California.

Founded on July 11, 1875, the NSGW was organized for “The mutual benefit, mental improvement and social intercourse of its members; to perpetuate in the minds of all native Californians the memories of one of the most wonderful epochs in the world’s history–-the Days of ’49—to unite them in one harmonious body through the state by the ties of a friendship mutually beneficial to all and unalloyed by the bitterness of religious or political differences…to elevate and cultivate the mental faculties; to rejoice with one another in prosperity and to extend the good Samaritan hand in adversity”

The early accomplishments of the NSGW are legendary in the annals of the Golden State. They include the preservation of such sites as Sutter’s Fort in Sacramento and the Customs House in Monterey, working to get the Bear Flag adopted as the State Flag and lobbying for the creation of the State Parks system.

Over the years, the Order has changed to meet the needs of its members and the public. The NSGW continues its commitment to historic preservation through its program of marking historic sites and through the efforts of the NSGW Historical Preservation Foundation.

The NSGW commitment to community is evident in the programs that it sponsors. The Order helps children afflicted with craniofacial anomalies through the NSGW Charitable Foundation, sponsors an essay contest for fourth grade students and promotes interaction among its members through various athletic and social functions.

These are just a few of the programs and functions of the NSGW. We hope that you have been impressed by their range and scope. We invite you to join in our efforts in the preservation of the history of our great state and for the advancement of California.

Historical Preservation Foundation (Click Here for more information)

The Charitable Foundation  (Click Here for more information)

                                                            (Click Here for Brochure)

Not a Member? Click Here to learn how to join.