The SDE was organized to further interest in the study of Spain and Spanish emigrants. Scholarly and genealogical data gathered are submitted to [[Augustan Omnibus | The Augustan Omnibus]], the [[Family of Augustans]] project, and the [[Books Editor]] for inclusion in the ''Augustan Lineages'' series.
The SDE is governed by the [[Dean of the SDE]], appointed by and answerable to the [[PresidentDean of Studies]] of the Augustan Society. Administrative tasks are assigned to the [[SDE ClerkHeadquarters]].
Membership in the SDE is open to those who meet the following qualifications for each class of membership:
Membership in the SDE is available in two exclusive classes:
'''Royal Class''' is available to persons who can prove descent from any King of Spainor a predicessor nation; or
'''Hereditary Class''' is available to persons who cannot qualify for Royal Class, but who can prove descent from a Spanish family who lived in Spain or a predecessor nation for a minimum of three generations.
Note: The definition of "Spain" for purposes of qualification is the current borders of that nation.
<table cellspacing="10">
<tr><td>[[image:sde.arms.gif|50px]]</td><td>The arms of the SDE is an inescutcheon -----yet to be designed, upon the shield of The Augustan Society, as shown to the left.</td></tr>
<tr><td>[[image:sde.badge.gif|50px]]</td><td>The insignia of the SDE is a lapel pin showing the inescutcheon above, as shown to the left. Informally, this may be worn on the left lapel. Augustan Society members may wear the pin on the ribbon of the Medal of Membership when appropriate.</td></tr>
</table>
<ul>
<li>Petitioners must submit to Headquarters a completed petition, proven lineage, payment of the Entry Fee, payment of the [[Genealogist Fee]], and such other evidence of qualification as may be needed. The Headquarters staff may complete the paper petition form if all data is supplied in another format.</li>
<li>Headquarters Staff will confirm that the lineage is in standard form and appears complete. Failing this, they will remand the lineage to the petitioner for additional information.</li>