Society of Mayflower Descendants in the State of Illinois Fellowship
Society of Mayflower Descendants in the State of Illinois Fellowship supports scholars’ residential research using Newberry collections to advance work in early American or Transatlantic history.
Funder: Newberry Library
Due Dates: December 4, 2026 (Application) | December 14, 2026 (Recommendation letters)
Funding Amounts: $3,000 for one month (four weeks)
Summary: Supports residential research in early American or Transatlantic history requiring specific items in the Newberry Library’s collections.
Key Information: Applicants must hold a PhD or equivalent terminal degree, or have ABD status, and undertake continuous in-person residency.
Description
The Society of Mayflower Descendants in the State of Illinois Fellowship supports projects related to early American or Transatlantic history that require investigation of specific Newberry Library collection items. Administered through the Newberry’s Short-Term Fellowship program, it provides one month of intensive research at the library in Chicago and participation in its scholarly community.
The Newberry’s collections contain millions of sources documenting personal stories and historical moments, including archival materials and rare books. This fellowship concentrates support on projects whose research needs are directly connected to those holdings. Scholars at any career stage may apply, including curators, librarians, and independent scholars who meet the academic requirements. Applicants submit through the general Short-Term Fellowship program rather than applying separately for this named award.
