Y Ddraig Goch a Ddyry Cychwyn:  “The Red Dragon Leads the Way.”  Welcome to the website of the St. David’s Society of the State of New York.  Here you will find information on the history and mission of the Society, which is to disseminate the culture, language, history and heritage of Wales.  All those of Welsh descent or with an interest in Welsh culture are welcome to join the St. David’s Society of the State of New York.

Mission

The mission of the St. David’s Society of the State of New York is multi-fold.  Its first goal is to preserve the common heritage and culture of all Welsh-Americans, binding them ever closer to their home country, Wales.

Its second goal is to advance Welsh and Welsh-American students in all fields of study with the awarding of annual scholarships.  Begun in 1980, the St. David’s Society scholarship program has distributed thousands of dollars to hundreds of eligible students.

In recent years, the Society has expanded its outreach to include the encouragement of the study of the Welsh language, literature, music and drama, and by supporting Welsh cultural events in New York City. 

In these ways, the Society shares Welsh culture in the Metropolitan area among Welsh and non-Welsh people alike.

The St. David’s Society of the State of New York had its start as the St. David’s Benevolent Society, founded in 1801.  Another Welsh-based charitable organization, founded in 1805, the Ancient Britons Benefit Society, had similar goals as St. David’s and in 1835, at a meeting in held in the Welsh Baptist Church located in the Bowery, the two organizations joined together to become the leading Welsh philanthropic society in New York.

In 1841 the society adopted its present name, and General Morgan Lewis, the son of a signer of the Declaration of Independence, became first President of the St. David’s Society of the State of New York. 

Since that time, the Society has been very active in promoting Welsh-American activities, providing academic sponsorships, and stimulating interest in Welsh and Welsh-American culture.  It presents on an annual basis the Hopkins Award Medal to Welsh-Americans who have distinguished themselves through their contributions to American life.