Skagit County History Project Team Earns Outstanding Recognition Award

by Roxanne Lowe

Since 2003, the Washington State Genealogical Society has recognized more than 400 outstanding volunteers, nominated by their local society or genealogical organization for their service and dedication. These volunteers are the backbone of their local society, giving their time and expertise, to the organization and the field of genealogy. In the coming months, you will be introduced to each of the 2014 award recipients and learn why they received the 2014 WSGS Outstanding Volunteer Award.

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Rita Schulze

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Sharon Johnson

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Kris LaRue

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Hazel Rasar

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Dan Royal

Today we’re introducing Sharon Johnson, Kris LaRue, Hazel Rasar, Dan Royal, and Rita Schulze, members of the Skagit County History Project Team, who were nominated by the Skagit Valley Genealogical Society. The team was recognized for exceptional research, preservation and publication of historical material relating to Skagit County.

The History Project Team was created to document the historical biographies of the people of Skagit County and their ancestors. Beginning in 2003, stories were gathered for a number of years until collections ceased and the gathered material turned over to Mr. Royal with the vision of publishing a book known as “Skagit County, Washington and Its People.”

Each member of this long-term team held a unique, valuable role. As publications chair, Ms. Rasar was instrumental in assisting Mr. Royal with the early development of the project. Together, the two of them also coordinated the effort throughout the ten-year period. In 2012, Ms. Schulze became chair of the effort while Ms. Johnson began budgeting for the books’ publication. Ms. Rasar was also involved with Ms. Schulze, Ms. Johnson and Ms. LaRue in proofing and developing of an every-name index. Mr. Royal worked with a draft person to format and publish the final books. The two-volume set was published in 2014.

Due to the team’s dedication and tireless work on this decade-long project, they richly deserved receiving a WSGS Outstanding Volunteer Award.

For more information on the WSGS Outstanding Volunteer Award program, visit the Recognition page of the WSGS website or contact Roxanne Lowe, Recognition Chair, at Roxanne@thekeeffes.com.