About Clan Bell North America
Preserving Our Heritage. Building Our Future.
For centuries, the Bell name has been woven into the history of Scotland, from the turbulent Anglo-Scottish Border to communities across the world. Today, Clan Bell North America (CBNA) continues that legacy by bringing together Bell descendants and friends who share an interest in our history, genealogy, traditions, and future.
Whether your Bell ancestors came directly from Scotland, through Northern Ireland, England, or later settled in North America, Australia, New Zealand, or elsewhere, you are part of a story that spans generations and continents. Our mission is to preserve that story while helping write its next chapter.
Our History
Clan Bell North America carries forward the work begun by earlier Bell family organizations that have served Bell descendants for generations.
The modern organization traces its roots to Clan Bell International, led by Colonel William H. Bell, President Emeritus. Clan Bell International united several long-established Bell family organizations, including the Bell Family Association, with the shared vision of bringing Bell families throughout the world together under one organization.
Following the dissolution of Clan Bell International as a corporation, Clan Bell North America was established to continue that mission and preserve the work begun by those early leaders.
Today, CBNA serves as a charitable nonprofit organization dedicated to connecting Bell families, preserving our shared heritage, and supporting the future of Clan Bell worldwide.
Who We Are
Clan Bell North America is a 501(c)(3) charitable nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the history, genealogy, traditions, and fellowship of the Bell family.
Our members include individuals of Scottish, English, Irish, and other Bell ancestries, along with many friends of Clan Bell who share an appreciation for Scottish heritage.
Together we work to:
Preserve the history of the Bell family.
Promote Scottish culture and traditions.
Support genealogical and DNA research.
Connect Bell descendants around the world.
Encourage participation in Highland Games and Scottish festivals.
Educate future generations about Bell heritage.
A Worldwide Family
The Bell family has spread across the globe through centuries of migration.
Today, Bells can be found throughout North America, Scotland, England, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and many other countries.
Clan Bell North America proudly works alongside Bell organizations and researchers around the world to strengthen these international relationships while encouraging cooperation across the worldwide Bell community.
Although separated by oceans, we remain connected through our shared history and heritage.
Looking Toward the Future
Clan Bell is currently recognized as an armigerous clan, meaning it does not presently have a recognized Chief.
One of our long-term goals is to support the worldwide effort to restore the Clan Bell chiefship through the established processes of the Court of the Lord Lyon in Scotland.
This work includes preserving historical records, encouraging worldwide participation, supporting genealogical research, and helping unite Bell descendants across the globe.
As our clan continues to grow, every new member helps strengthen the foundation for future generations.
Join Our Journey
Clan Bell North America is more than a historical society—it is a community.
Whether you are beginning your family history, have spent decades researching your Bell ancestors, or simply wish to celebrate your Scottish heritage, there is a place for you within our clan.
We invite you to:
Attend Highland Games and Scottish festivals.
Explore your Bell family history.
Connect with Bell descendants across North America and beyond.
Volunteer, participate, and help preserve our heritage.
Become part of the continuing story of Clan Bell.