About the Melungeon Heritage Association

The Melungeon Heritage Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving Melungeon history and heritage. MHA does not endorse any particular theory of origin or the work of any individual researchers. This website represents many points of view, some of which are in conflict.

MHA sponsors annual gatherings for the presentation of information about our people. These gatherings are only a part of the work of MHA, however. This organization is also dedicated to several other areas.

Our primary area of concern is telling the story of the Melungeon people and continuing to put together the mosaic of our past that has been hidden for so long.  Our mission is to document and preserve the heritage and cultural legacy of mixed-ancestry peoples in or associated with the southern Appalachians. While our focus will be on those of Melungeon heritage, we do not restrict ourselves to honoring only this group. We firmly believe in the dignity of all mixed ancestry groups and commit to preserving this rich heritage of ethnic harmony and diversity.

All who support the work of MHA, whether identifying as mixed ancestry or not, are invited to participate in the work and goals of MHA as well as the gatherings and events.  As we celebrate our past, we also seek to understand its impact on our lives today and help others to do the same.

 A membership form is downloadable below.  If you do not have Adobe Reader (free on the Internet), you may contact us for an email or regular mail form to be sent to you.