Puget Sound Genealogical Society events for January
Jan 22: Getting to Know PSGS- A Social Event. 1pm-3pm. In person only. Come learn more about our Society. Chat with others about Genealogy. Discover our upcoming classes and programs for 2025. Refreshments will be served. Open to the public. (No cost)
Jan 25: PSGS Class-Analysis Process and Analysis Tools with Janet Camarata. 10:30am. Janet will be continuing her series using a variety of lesser- known sources. This is a hybrid event. Join us in person at the Sylvan Way Library (1301 Sylvan Way, Bremerton) or on Zoom. The Zoom link will be posted on our website and Facebook page on Jan 24.
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PROGRAM UPDATES
All meetings are online except the in-person Research Group and Genealogy Help at KCLS Auburn, Federal Way, and Renton Highland library branches
Live transcription (captioning) is available during our Zoom meetings by request
Online meeting participants need to register for SKCGS Zoom meetings. Register at our website skcgs.org. Upon registration, Zoom will send a confirmation email with instructions on joining the meeting.
JANUARY – EARLY FEBRUARY 2025 MEETINGS & EVENTS
Tuesday, January 7, 2025, 6:30pm PT SKCGS Board of Directors Meeting (online) All SKCGS members are invited to attend; only Officers and Directors may vote. Write to Board@skcgs.org for the meeting link.
Wednesday, January 8, 2025 ⋅ 6:00pm – 7:00pm PT Research Study Group – Step 9 of 10 (online) At each meeting, we’ll discuss one of the ten steps from Elizabeth Shown Mills’ webinar “Dissection & Analysis of Research Problems: 10 Steps to a Solution” This is not a free webinar; you will need a subscription from familytreewebinars.com to participate More information and registration at https://www.skcgs.org
Thursday, January 9, 2025 ⋅ 11:00am – 1:00pm PT Genealogy Help with SKCGS at Renton Highlands Library (in-person) Genealogy questions? SKCGS offers one-on-one help with a volunteer 2801 NE 10th Street Renton, WA 98056 Registration not required. In-person event. Reasonable accommodation for people with disabilities is available by request. Email access@kcls.org at least seven days before the event. More information at King County Library, email jwooten@kcls.org
Monday, January 13, 2025 ⋅ 1:00pm – 3:00pm PT Genetic Genealogy/DNA Interest Group (online) Topic: 2025 Research Planning
Plans for education, trying new techniques, new sites? Let’s explore. Register at https://www.skcgs.org After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. Subscribe to the free SKCGS Genetic-Genealogy email list for announcements and discussion: https://skcgs.groups.io/g/Genetic-Genealogy Friday, January 17, 2025, 1:00pm – 3:00pm PT Research Workshop (in-person) For SKCGS members Kent FamilySearch Center 12817 SE 256th St., Kent, WA Seating is limited RSVP REQUIRED to Winona at w.laird@skcgs.org
Saturday, January 18, 2025, 9:30am PT social time; 10am – 11:30am PT program (online) SKCGS General Membership Meeting and Speaker (Online) “The Invisible Man – Moving through a pre-1840 burned-county brick wall” by Carol Gorman Friedel How do you find an invisible man—you do know someone had to father your 2nd great grandmother in 1833, but you don’t even have a prospective name, he doesn’t seem to appear in any census, there are no birth, death, or marriage records because you’re searching in not just one, but two burned counties. Carol will take you through the process of finding this elusive father using a combination of scattered land records, property tax records, wills, and old books. Next, we’ll put them all together by using simple charts and deductive reasoning. We’ll use that information to construct an extended family and finally, DNA will be used to corroborate the conclusions reached.
Dr. Carol Gorman Friedel is a passionate amateur genetic genealogist. She’s been researching as well as attending lectures, classes, workshops, and courses since 2008 when she retired from practicing general dentistry. She is an administrator for two surname groups at Family Tree DNA (Gorman and Chatman). Carol belongs to several genealogical societies and is a member of the SKCGS Education Committee. She’s interested in learning more about this wonderful obsession we all share and in helping fellow genealogists.. The program will be recorded for playback by SKCGS Members. Guests welcome! Register at https://www.skcgs.org
Monday, January 20, 2025 ⋅ 1:00pm – 3:00pm PT Technical User Group (online) Topic: Platting Metes & Bounds We’ll be following step-by-step from the book “Land & Property Research In the United States” by E. Wade Hone, copyright 1997, Ancestry Inc. Be sure to bring some land descriptions from deeds from “state land” states. You need only a few tools: graph paper, pencils, a short ruler (metric is best), and protractor. There will be a handout in advance of this meeting for reference. Register at https://www.skcgs.org After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. Subscribe to the free SKCGS Technical User Group email list for announcements and discussion: https://skcgs.groups.io/g/TUG
Wednesday, January 22, 2025 ⋅ 6:00pm – 7:00pm PT Research Study Group – Step 9 of 10 – cont’d (online) At each meeting, we’ll discuss one of the ten steps from Elizabeth Shown Mills’ webinar “Dissection & Analysis of Research Problems: 10 Steps to a Solution” This is not a free webinar; you will need a subscription from familytreewebinars.com to participate More information and registration at https://www.skcgs.org
Thursday, January 23, 2025 ⋅ 11:00am – 1:00pm PT Genealogy Help with SKCGS at the Auburn Library (in-person) Genealogy questions? SKCGS offers one-on-one help with a volunteer 1102 Auburn Way S Auburn, WA 98002 Registration not required. In-person event. Safety guidelines and current protocols followed. More information at King County Library, email kcls-auburn@kcls.org
Thursday, January 23, 2025 ⋅ 2:00pm – 4:00pm PT Genealogy Help with SKCGS at the Federal Way Library (in-person) Genealogy questions? SKCGS offers one-on-one help with a volunteer 34200 1st Way S Federal Way, WA 98003 Registration not required. In-person event. Safety guidelines and current protocols followed. More information at King County Library, https://kcls.org/locations/federal-way, or phone: (253) 838-3668 Monday, January 27, 2025 ⋅ 1:00pm – 3:00pm PT Genealogy Chat (online) Meet up and chat about genealogy subjects and topics. We have no agenda; we just like one another! Register at https://www.skcgs.org After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. Subscribe to the free SKCGS email list for announcements and discussion: https://skcgs.groups.io/g/Society
Saturday, February 1, 2025, 10:00am – 12:00pm PT Family Tree Maker Users Group (online) Question & Answer. Each month, we will learn about using the features of FTM. Register at https://www.skcgs.org After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. Subscribe to the free SKCGS FTM email list for announcements and discussion: https://skcgs.groups.io/g/FTMUG
Tuesday, February 4, 2025, 6:30pm PT SKCGS Board of Directors Meeting (online) All SKCGS members are invited to attend; only Officers and Directors may vote. Write to Board@skcgs.org for the meeting link.
Friday, February 7, 2025 ⋅ 12:30pm PT EGS German Interest Group (online) Topic: How a Non-German Speaking Person Can Trace Their German Ancestors. Presenter Bernard Meisner explains how to conduct an exhaustive search of US records to identify your ancestor’s home town and religion and recognize obstacles to ensure you are researching the correct person. For meeting registration, visit https://egsgermangroup.wordpress.com/
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Gilbert Cope was “father of genealogical research in Pennsylvania.” His surname collection – scrapbooked records on thousands of surnames. He prepared the first accounts on many early families and twice traveled to the British Isles to abstract English Friends records. In America, Cope saved numerous Quaker meeting records from destruction. Explore FamilySearch to discover if Cope also researched – YOUR Quaker ancestor.
Wednesday, January 22
10:00 am to 11:15 am Pacific Time – Fiske Genealogical Library, Seattle (Virtual Class)
In the late 1800s, the new state of Washington promised peace and prosperity to new settlers. At least thirty-three African American men who had served during the Civil War answered the call. Paul Barrows, a former legislator from Mississippi, established the Calvary Baptist Church of Spokane. Gideon H. Stump Bailey became the first African American justice of the peace in Franklin. Allin Alfred Hawkins, born into slavery, became one of the wealthiest African American farmers in the Yakima Valley. In her presentation, author Cynthia A. Wilson will tell the stories of these men and other courageous African American veterans who settled in Washington State after the Civil War. Ms. Wilson’s book, “Black Civil War Veterans in Washington State” was published recently in June 2024.
Wednesday, January 29
10:00 am to 11:15 am Pacific Time – Fiske Genealogical Library, Seattle (Virtual Class)
Jumping the Pond: Connecting Immigrants to Their Homeland
Are you and your ancestors tired of hanging out in US records? Ready to get back to Europe? In this presentation Mary Roddy will cover a methodology for finding your ancestor’s place of origin. You’ll learn about a host of records that might provide a location or clues toward finding one. Mary’s got a spreadsheet trick for squeezing the most out of passenger lists and a couple of ideas for when all else fails. Finally she’ll present a couple of case studies where she connected immigrants back to their home in Europe.
Wednesday, February 5
10:00 am to 11:15 am Pacific Time – Fiske Genealogical Library, Seattle (Virtual Class)
Meet Your New Research Assistant: AI for Genealogists
Discover how AI can act as your personal research assistant. This class will introduce you to AI tools like ChatGPT and FamilySearch’s full text search, offering practical tips and techniques to save time, find hidden records, and enhance the accuracy of your family history research.
Wednesday, February 12
10:00 am to 11:15 am Pacific Time – Fiske Genealogical Library, Seattle (Virtual Class)
Ten Things Every Eastern European Genealogist Should Know
Learn how to maximize your Eastern European genealogy research with the ten key things to know before you even begin. Topics to be addressed: Tips for planting your family tree online, determining names and places, pinpointing places, the best online databases for getting what you need and practices for citing sources and recording information, and what to expect when you cross the pond.
Wednesday, February 19
10:00 am to 11:15 am Pacific Time – Fiske Genealogical Library, Seattle (Virtual Class)
A Demographic Study of Siroke, Slovakia in the 1800s
Censuses and Church records are great sources to find ancestors, but taken as a whole, these documents can provide a wealth of statistical information about a population. I have collected such data for one of my ancestral hometowns, Siroke in Eastern Slovakia, to build a picture of the daily life my great-grandfather knew as a boy before he came to America: occupations, family sizes, at what age people married, how long they lived and causes of death, etc. Lacking any direct stories about my older ancestors, this is a good way to present a picture of their world. Although it is one small farming town in a small country, the picture of peasant life is probably similar to towns all across Europe just before the Industrial Revolution.
Wednesday, February 26
10:00 am to 11:15 am Pacific Time – Fiske Genealogical Library, Seattle (Virtual Class)
Using Irish Naming Convention to Discover the Family of Thomas Delaney in Mid-Nineteenth Century Ireland
Thomas Delaney was the father of Catherine “Kate: Delaney who married Henry Burge on 5 November 1878 in Dublin, Ireland. Catherine was born about 1860-62 in Queen’s County (present day County Laois) in Ireland and died 24 March 1909 in Dublin. To learn more about Thomas, evidence was gathered from researching the life and family of his daughter, Kate and her husband Henry. This evidence identified a specific geographical location to focus the search for records for Thomas. This case study shows how Irish naming convention can be used as a powerful tool to analyze and predict family names and aid in the search for family units in Irish records in the mid to late 1800s.
Wednesday, March 12
10:00 am to 11:15 am Pacific Time – Fiske Genealogical Library, Seattle (Virtual Class)
YOUR ANCESTOR’S OCCUPATION – Exploring the 1821 Irish Census
In Ireland all of our ancestors had an occupation. While some might later change their name, few changed their trade or means of making a living. When used in combination with other factors, an occupation can be a powerful tool to help identify OUR ancestor, among the hundreds of same named Irish immigrants. Explore the occupations outlined in Irelands’ 1821 Census for the town of Ballyhaise in County Cavan. It’s records are among a handful of remaining census fragments, which were not destroyed by the Public Records Office fire in 1921.
Join Us for Our Annual Holiday Celebration in the SGS Library at the Good Shepherd Center
With the holiday rush over, let’s celebrate the new year. Bring cookies to share and say hello to your SGS friends in person at the library. Come early, come late (but not too late).
Stick around to join us for the Second Saturday Zoom presentation by Rebecca Whitman Koford at 1 p.m.
Catch (or ask for) a demo of library subscriptions and/or equipment
Do you have family history in the Northwest? If so you are likely to benefit from records held by the National Archives at Seattle. This facility maintains and provides access to permanent records created by federal agencies and courts in Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington.
This tour will be Friday, January 17 at 9:30 a.m. It is limited to 20 people.
SECOND SATURDAY PRESENTATION TO HIGHLIGHT RESEARCH LOGS
Organizing is key to understanding. If you can’t find it, how can you compare and analyze the facts and clues in your ancestor’s life? Presenter Rebecca Whitman Koford, Vice President of the National Genealogical Society, will introduce three organizational tools that researches can benefit from using. These include strategic use of timelines, and how they can work together to improve your analysis skills and get closer to finding the answers you need.
This presentation will be offered via Zoom Saturday, January 11 at 1 p.m.
NEXT MONTH: “I Have a Civil War Ancestor: Now What?” Presented by Brian Rhinehart, Saturday, February 8, at 1 p.m. Sign up separately for this event.
SLOTS STILL AVAILABLE FOR GET ORGANIZED CLASS
SGS’s “Organizing for Genealogy” class still has openings. This course will help participants create a system of organization or adapt their current system to meet their specific research needs. The class will be offered over four weeks in February with an option to attend either Monday evenings (7:00 to 9:00 p.m.) or Tuesday afternoons (1:00 to 3:00 p.m.).
Session 1: Organizing Our Self – Our thoughts, actions, time, and space
Session 2: Organizing Our System – Paper systems and Digital Systems
Session 3: Organizing Our Workflow – Research, Records, and Resources
Session 4: Pulling it all together – Developing a tailored organization system
Each class series is limited to 20 participants. Class Fee: $80 (SGS members $60)
SCANDINAVIAN SIG TO SHARE TIPS SEEKING NORWEGIAN AND SWEDISH RECORDS
Join Karen and Kathi on Sunday, January 12th at 1PM via Zoom as they reveal tips for searching Norwegian and Swedish records on both free and subscription sites. Plus, bring your questions— we’ll be answering all your burning inquiries about tracing your ancestors! The Scandinavian SIG was restarted about 10 years ago by Karen Knudson and has a co-leader Kathi M., SGS librarian. The group meets quarterly. See the SGS calendar of events at segensoc.org to register.
MEXICAN SIG LAUNCHES JANUARY 9
Share information and discuss Indigenous North American, Spanish, Cuban, and Hispanic genealogical research. The inaugural meeting for this SIG will be Thursday, January 9th, at 7:00 p.m., via Zoom. Contact Diane Hughes-Hart via Education@seagensoc.org to join.
NEW SIGS IN PLANNING STAGES
SGS is planning to add three new Special Interest Groups. Each of these groups are in early development. Would you be interested in being a co-leader or a participant? Let us know of your interest and availability/preferences for meeting day and time. Please send us an email with your information.
Ancestry.com Ancestry.com has become one of the largest genealogical websites available today. With vast records collections and extensive tree building tools, there’s much to explore and optimize. If you would like to gain greater insight into this site or want to share your knowledge with others, please email: Education@seagensoc.org (Subject: Ancestry SIG).
Eastern Europe Eastern Europe is a regions with a rich and complex history and diverse ethic groups. It’s frequent border changes, language barriers and influences from several powerful empires can lead to challenges when researching family history. Share information and questions about this fascinating region. To get involved email: Education@seagensoc.org (Subject: Eastern Europe SIG).
Artificial intelligence The explosive growth in AI has lead to many applications for it in genealogical research. Do you use AI in your research or want to learn more about how to do so? Email: Education@seagensoc.org (Subject: AI SIG).
LIBRARY NEWS:
Evening Hours at SGS Library to Be Offered Once a Month
SGS is offering evening hours once a month at the library starting this month. The library will be open from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. every 3rd Wednesday of the month through April when the success of the endeavor will be reevaluated. If it proves popular these hours could continue past April. So use it or lose it. Come to the libary Wednesday nights January 15, February 19 … and show SGS that you want these additional hours.
Get Help Scanning Photos, Learn More About the Library; Tours to Be Offered Once a Month Want to know more about how the SGS library can help your research? With so many resources available it can be easy to overlook something that may be helpful. To help patrons learn more about the library and get help using the photo/document scanner, the SGS library will be offering tours every 4th Saturday of the month. The tour will start at 10:30 a.m. and will be followed by assistance scanning documents and photos. The first tour will be Saturday, January 25, followed by February 22. Show up and let SGS know if this is a program that should be continued.
SGS CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Good Shepherd Center, Suite 302 4649 Sunnyside Ave N Seattle, WA 98103 206 522-8658
Always check the SGS Website Calendar of Events for the meeting links, registration, or for last minute updates or changes to the schedule. Be advised you may need to register in advance to join a meeting.
All times listed are Pacific Time unless otherwise noted
Saturday, Jan. 4, 2025, 10:15 a.m.- 12:15 p.m., FamilySearch SIG, Discover the many ways to use the FamilySearch website in your research. Meeting includes instruction and time for Q&A. Email Lou to get on the email list: loudaly@nwlink.com.
Monday, Jan. 6, 2025, 10:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m., Brags & Bricks Social Interest Group (Virtual), Join us for an informal social gathering. Share your recent genealogical successes and challenges, or just come to hang out with other genealogists. Remember the new Zoom link started this month.
Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2025, 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m., Pacific Northwest Interest Group (Virtual), Share information and discuss Pacific Northwest genealogical research. Register on the SGS website.
Wednesday, Jan. 8 2025, 7:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m., MAC Computer SIG, Jointly sponsored by SGS and Fiske. Meetings address topics and resources for Macintosh (Apple) computers and the Reunion genealogy software program. A link to login will be sent to the MAC SIG email list. If you would like to join, send an email to macusersig@seagensoc.org to be added to the email list.
Thursday, Jan. 9, 2025, 7:00 p.m.-8:30 a.m., Mexican SIG (Virtual), Share information and discuss Indigenous North American, Spanish, Cuban, and Hispanic genealogical research. Email Education@seagensoc.org to join.
Saturday, Jan. 11, 2025, 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m., Holiday Open House, Join us for our annual holiday celebration in the SGS library at the Good Shepherd Center. Bring cookies to share and say hello to your SGS friends IN PERSON at the library. Come early, come late (not too late). Stay for the Second Saturday Zoom presentation.
Saturday, Jan. 11, 2025, 1:00 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Second Saturday, “Research Logs: Write or Regret It!” Presented by Rebecca Whitman Koford. Organizing is key to understanding. This presentation introduces three organizational tools, including strategic use of timelines, and how they can work together to improve your analysis skills and get closer to finding the answers you need. Register here.
Sunday, Jan. 12, 2025, 1:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m., Scandinavian Interest Group (Virtual), We will be reviewing free and subscription sites for researching records in Sweden and Norway. hosts Karen Knudson and Kathi M. Share information and discuss Scandinavian ancestral research.
Monday, Jan. 13, 2025, 10:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m., Brags & Bricks Social Interest Group (Virtual), Join us for an informal social gathering. Share your recent genealogical successes and challenges, or just come to hang out with other genealogists. Remember the new Zoom link started this month.
Monday, Jan. 13, 2025, 1:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m., SGS Board of Directors Meeting (Virtual), All SGS members are welcome to attend. SGS is an all volunteer organization. Please be involved. Members must sign in to website to see Zoom link.
Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2025, 10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m., Tech Tuesday (Virtual), informal consultation time on DNA, genealogy software, or genealogy-related technical issues. All are welcome. No appointment necessary. Bring us your problem; we’ll try to help.
Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2025, 6:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m., NEW! SGS Library Evening Hours, SGS library introduces evening hours on a trial basis through April. Every 3rd Wednesday of the month.
Friday, Jan. 17, 2025, 9:30 a.m., SGS Tour of National Archives at Seattle (Field Trips), Docent-led tour of the National Archives at Seattle This facility maintains and provides access to permanent records created by federal agencies and courts in Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington. Limited to 20 people.
Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025, 1:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m, German SIG (Virtual), Topic to be announced. Register on the SGS website.
Sunday, Jan. 19, 2025, 1:00 pm- 2:30 pm, Virtual Sunday: Something Old, Something New, Get a virtual demo of SGS library online resources. Speaker: Jill Morelli. See the SGS website Calendar of Events for further information. Please register in advance.
Monday, Jan. 20, 2025, 10:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m., Brags & Bricks Social Interest Group (Virtual), Join us for an informal social gathering. Share your recent genealogical successes and challenges, or just come to hang out with other genealogists. Remember the new Zoom link started this month.
Monday, Jan. 20, 2025, 7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m., Write It Up! SIG (Virtual), Join this group to share and discuss writing projects, resources, and ideas. To join or learn more, contact SGS Director of Education (education@seagensoc.org).
Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2025, 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m., “Pass It On” Writers’ Group, Create your family history and share with others in an effort to improve your writing. Please note: The Writers’ Group is at the maximum number of participants and is not currently accepting any new members.
Saturday, Jan 25, 2025, 10:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m., DNA SIG, To participate in this quarterly SIG 1you need to be on the SGS DNA Interest Group email list. Contact Cary Bright at SGSDNASIG@seagensoc.org to join.
Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025, 10:30 a.m., NEW! SGS Library Tour/Scanning Help, SGS library introduces tours of the library and help scanning photos and documents. This is a trial basis through April. Every 4th Saturday of the month. Tour starts at 10:30 followed by scanning help.
Monday, Jan. 27, 2025, 10:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m., Brags & Bricks Social Interest Group (Virtual), Join us for an informal social gathering. Share your recent genealogical successes and challenges, or just come to hang out with other genealogists. Remember the new Zoom link started this month.
Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2025, 10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m., Tech Tuesday (Virtual), informal consultation time on DNA, genealogy software, or genealogy-related technical issues. All are welcome. No appointment necessary. Bring us your problem; we’ll try to help.
Saturday, Feb. 1, 2025, 10:15 a.m.- 12:15 p.m., FamilySearch SIG, Discover the many ways to use the FamilySearch website in your research. Meeting includes instruction and time for Q&A. Email Lou to get on the email list: loudaly@nwlink.com.
Sunday, Feb. 2, 2025, 1:00 pm-3:00 pm, DNA Workshop, with Cary Bright and Craig Gowens. To participate you need to be on the SGS DNA Interest Group email list. Contact Cary Bright at sgsdnasig@seagensoc.org to join.
Monday, Feb. 3, 2025, 10:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m., Brags & Bricks Social Interest Group (Virtual), Join us for an informal social gathering. Share your recent genealogical successes and challenges, or just come to hang out with other genealogists. Remember the new Zoom link started this month.
Wednesday, Feb. 5, 2025, 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m., Pacific Northwest Interest Group (Virtual), Share information and discuss Pacific Northwest genealogical research. Register on the SGS website.
Saturday, Feb. 8, 2025, 1:00 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Second Saturday, “I Have a Civil War Ancestor: Now What?” Presented by Brian Rhinehart. Military records can be among the most genealogically significant sources you can find. Register here.
Monday, Feb. 10, 2025, 10:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m., Brags & Bricks Social Interest Group (Virtual), Join us for an informal social gathering. Share your recent genealogical successes and challenges, or just come to hang out with other genealogists. Remember the new Zoom link started this month.
Monday, Feb. 10, 2025, 1:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m., SGS Board of Directors Meeting (Virtual), All SGS members are welcome to attend. SGS is an all volunteer organization. Please be involved. Members must sign in to website to see Zoom link.
** NOTE: There will be no Irish SIG in January.
OUR NEIGHBORS AND BEYOND
“Finding the Origins of an Immigrant Ancestor” (Virtual) Eastside Genealogical Society Thursday, Jan. 9, 2025, 7:00 p.m. (virtual doors open at 6:30 p.m.)
Join Eastside Genealogical Society and Debbie Gurtler, AG and Assistant Director of the FamilySearch Library in Salt Lake City as the explore methods to find the homeland of an immigrant ancestor. This presentation will highlight the methodology and U.S. record types that should help you identify their hometown so you can expand your family tree. A case study highlighting the methodology needed will also be presented. For more information about the event see the EGS website.
Registration opens for AppGen Spring 2025 Classes (Virtual) Wednesday, January 15, 2025
The window for registration for the AppGen 2025 Spring semester will open 15-22 January. It is a random draw, not “first come first served.” For more information see the website.
“AI (Artificial Intelligence) Made Easy: Boosting Your Genealogy Research with Technology” (Virtual) Olympia Genealogical Society Saturday, Feb. 1, 2025, 8:50 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
Speaker Blaine Bettinger, will outline how AI can aid your research. In this 4-hour seminar he will cover:
Using Artificial Intelligence Tools for Genealogy
10 Generative AI Prompts Every Genealogist Needs to Know
Ethical Issues Associated with Generative Artificial Intelligence
Memories in the Digital Age: AI Transcription of Handwritten Diaries
For more information about the event see the OGS website.
Join SGS Today
to renew your membership: log in on the Members Home page and click the green renew membership button. January 1, 2025
SGS eNews! comes out the first of every month. contact eNews!
Welcome in the New Year with a presentation about German Genealogy Over 40 million Americans have German ancestors, comprising 10 to 15% of the population and forming the largest single ethnic group in the U.S. When researching your German American family history, you will inevitably reach the point where your ancestors crossed the Atlantic. Many people stop when they get to this stage, unsure how to continue researching in Europe. However, this is not where your journey has to end. We will show you how to continue tracing your family’s history using German sources, enabling you to track your lineage one or two centuries further back. Our presentation is designed as a starting point for researching your German ancestors and provides an overview of German genealogy. We begin with a brief history of German immigration to the US, covering routes, numbers and time frames. Following that, I will guide you through the various sources available in Germany, both primary and secondary, demonstrating how to access and utilize them effectively. This includes passenger lists, censuses, church records, administrative documents, personal registers, and more. One of the most challenging aspects of German American genealogy is pinpointing the exact hometown in Germany from which your ancestor emigrated. We will share strategies to help you overcome this hurdle, even when American records lack this crucial information. Additionally, I am happy to answer any questions you may have after the presentation. Till Fehmer Co-founder Fehmer Genealogy (2024) Research Assistant for Professor Andrew Moravcsik at Princeton University (2021-2022) MSc “European and International Public Policy” at the London School of Economics (LSE) (2020-2021) Trainee at the European Commission (2022- 2023) When: Thursday January 2, 2025
Time: 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Where: ZOOM & limited in-person (8)
Cost: $20 members, $25 non-members, Sign-up and Payment: ZOOM Go to HQRL Store at hqrl.com (sign in as a member to get the discount) In-Person (8 only): Call: 253-863-1806 or Come into the library at 2102 E Main Ave. Ste 105 Puyallup, WA 98372 HAVE YOU HEARD?
Dear MYRTLE will be joining us on January 16, 2025, to guide us through the “7 – Habits of Highly Effective Genealogists.” Mark your calendars and get your research ready to tackle the common pitfalls every genealogist encounters.
CONGRATULATIONS TO CHRISTINE SCHOMAKER, SGS VOLUNTEER OF WINTER QUARTER
It has been a long time coming to celebrate this longtime member and volunteer. Christine Schomaker joined SGS in 1997 and immediately became a Desk Volunteer, which grew to a weekly gig in 2001 when she had her first Board position. For the last 17 years (give or take a few) she has served the Board in many roles including: Director of Operations, Treasure, Director of Library and most recently, Director of Membership, which was moved to a Chair position outside of Board duties. That move finally allowed her to be nominated and accepted by the Board.
Christine Schomaker continues managing the responsibilities of maintaining membership the same as before keeping track and maintaining the membership roster. She can explain a lot about the statistics upon request. At any in-person event during membership renewal time, it isn’t unusual to see her sliding a letter opener through an envelope to collect new membership dues or renewal payments that still come through the USPS mail.
It’s safe to say, her hand goes up whenever help is needed. She has helped chair committees, assists with publishing, mailing, or emailing the SGS Journal (formerly Bulletin), as well as newsletters, syllabi, and publicity fliers. At one time she also managed the fundraising book sales at in-person SGS Seminars.
Schomaker served as Webmaster for the first SGS website and continues to assist in maintaining and improving what is now the third edition website. She is also a loyal Desk Volunteer nearly every Tuesday and serves as Class and Event Registrar which can keep her busy before, during and after Seminars and classes.
When asked what she enjoys about volunteering with SGS Schomaker said, “Serving on the Board has given me the opportunity to get to know and learn from many dedicated and long-term SGS members and I like having a hand in planning programs to benefit all of us on our genealogical journeys.”
In the 27 years of membership and participation, Schomaker has also gained experience and knowledge attending Second Saturday programs. “I like the camaraderie of in-person activities, open houses and SGS Seminars,” and “there are all the online Special Interest Groups, so convenient to attend. I’m a member of several and I try to squeeze in as many as I can.”
Christine’s own family research is focused on finding parents for Overton Harris (c1785-c1818) of Albemarle Co, Virginia and identifying the origins of John Chittum/Cheatham (c1737-1834) of Rockbridge Co Virginia. Requests for information about these men and their families has led to Tennessee, North Carolina, and now Maryland. Original records and newspaper articles have yielded many small discoveries but Schomaker is still searching for that breakthrough document.
Her other interests include: Birding, Botany, Astronomy, Wordle, and Sudoku. Schomaker began sharing a dual SGS membership with her husband, Eric in 2005. They have 3 adult children and recently traveled to California to celebrate a grandson’s first birthday.
SECOND SATURDAY: LOOK AT HOUSE HISTORIES
Have you ever wondered about the history behind a building or property? Join us for an informative presentation where Midori Okazaki, Archivist from the Puget Sound Regional Archives, will guide us through the process of uncovering the stories behind the walls.
From historical records to architectural clues, this session will provide insight into how you can trace the history of a building, whether it’s a family home or local landmark with an intriguing past. Learn how to use maps, deeds, censuses, and other resources to paint a full picture of a property’s historical significance.
images courtesy Library of Congress and Ian MacDonald, Ismael Paramo, Ahmed Muntasir and Steven Cordes /Unsplash
ANCESTOR ART PROJECT
image courtesy Sheyna Watkins Once living memory of a person fades, paper records are often all that remains of their life. SGS eNews editor Sheyna Watkins made this image of her great grandmother that she never knew using the documents about her. Although a photograph of her was used as a reference, this image includes no photograph.
Watkins used Adobe Photoshop to make this montage, but this same project can also be done by cutting and gluing photocopied and printed out records. Try it yourself, or adapt it as an activity for kids. Start by outlining the clothing, hair, head and eyes … (trace from a photo if you need to). Next, cutout the parts from the drawing and use them as a pattern to cutout parts of the documents to make your montage. Glue the pieces on a separate piece of paper to make the finished portrait. SAVE THE DATEFiske Genealogical Library Classes Wednesdays, 10:00 a.m.-11:15 a.m.
• Nov. 6 — “Missing: Reward! Locating Widows, Spinsters, and Bachelors” with Sara Cochran • Nov. 13 — “Finding Treasures in NewspaperArchive” with Mary Kircher Roddy • Nov. 20 — “MyMaps: Create a Map of Your Family’s Migration West” with Janet O’Conor Camarata
For more information see the Fiske Library website. Ten Steps to Writing and Publishing Your Family History American Ancestor of New England Historic Genealogical Society Thursday, Nov. 14, 12:00 p.m.-1:00 p.m.
Writing and publishing your genealogy is a fantastic way to preserve your family history for future generations and to share it with others. Join American Ancestors Vice President of Publishing, Sharon Inglis, as she discusses her top tips for writing and publishing your family history.
Family Tree Maker SIG Eastside Genealogical Society Nov. 15, 2024, 10:30 p.m.-12:30 p.m.
Join Eastside Genealogical Society and SGS to learn and share tips and tricks for using Family Tree Maker by Software MacKiev. The meetings open about 15 minutes in advance. You can join and/or leave whenever you have to, and you may email your question(s) in advance or bring them up during the meeting.
2024 GFO Virtual Fall Seminar Genealogical Forum of Oregon Eastside Genealogical Society Friday, Nov. 1 through Saturday, Nov. 2, 2024
GFO has announced there 2024 Fall Seminar. It will feature a feast of DNA topics. Genetic Genealogist Paul Woodbury will discuss using DNA to solve genealogical questions. Friday evening will be a beginner session, with Saturday devoted to intermediate and advanced techniques. For more information visit the GFO’s website.
SGS CALENDAR OF EVENTSGood Shepherd Center, Suite 302 4649 Sunnyside Ave N Seattle, WA 98103 206 522-8658Hours : Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday ** 10:00 a.m .- 3:00 p.m. ** Always check the SGS Website Calendar of Events for the meeting links, registration, or for last minute updates or changes to the schedule. Be advised you may need to register in advance to join a meeting. All times listed are Pacific Time unless otherwise notedSaturday, Nov. 2, 2024, 10:15 a.m.- 12:15 p.m., FamilySearch SIG, Discover the many ways to use the FamilySearch website in your research. Meeting includes instruction and time for Q&A. Email Lou to get on the email list: loudaly@nwlink.com Sunday, Nov. 3, 2023, 1:00 pm-3:00 pm, DNA Workshop, with Cary Bright and Craig Gowens. To participate you need to be on the SGS DNA Interest Group email list. Contact Cary Bright at sgsdnasig@seagensoc.org to join.
Monday, Nov. 4, 2024, 10:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m., Brags & Bricks Social Interest Group (Virtual), Join us for an informal social gathering. Share your recent genealogical successes and challenges, or just come to hang out with other genealogists. Remember the new Zoom link started this month. Wednesday, Nov. 6, 2024, 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m., Pacific Northwest Interest Group (Virtual), Share information and discuss Pacific Northwest genealogical research. Register on the SGS website.Thursday, Nov. 7, 2024, 11:00 a.m., SGS Tour of NW African American Museum (Field Trips), we invite you to join us there on a guided tour to learn more about Black heritage, including how African Americans got to the Pacific Northwest. Register here by Nov. 4. Saturday, Nov. 9, 2024, 1:00 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Second Saturday, “Walls That Talk: How to Research the History of Your House,” Presented by Midori Ozaki. From historical records to architectural clues, this session will provide insight into how you can trace the history of a building, whether it’s a family home or local landmark with an intriguing past. Register here. Monday, Nov. 11, 2024, 10:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m., Brags & Bricks Social Interest Group (Virtual), Join us for an informal social gathering. Share your recent genealogical successes and challenges, or just come to hang out with other genealogists. Remember the new Zoom link started this month.Monday, Nov. 11, 2024, 1:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m., SGS Board of Directors Meeting (Virtual), All SGS members are welcome to attend. SGS is an all volunteer organization. Please be involved. Members must sign in to website to see Zoom link.
Monday, Nov. 11, 2024, 6:00 p.m.-7:30 p.m., Write It Up! SIG (Virtual), Join this group to share and discuss writing projects, resources, and ideas. To join or learn more, contact SGS Director of Education (education@seagensoc.org).
Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2024, 10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m., Tech Tuesday (Virtual), informal consultation time on DNA, genealogy software, or genealogy-related technical issues. All are welcome. No appointment necessary. Bring us your problem; we’ll try to help.
Wednesday, Nov 13 2024, 7:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m., MAC Computer SIG, Jointly sponsored by SGS and Fiske. Meetings address topics and resources for Macintosh (Apple) computers and the Reunion genealogy software program. A link to login will be sent to the MAC SIG email list. If you would like to join, send an email to macusersig@seagensoc.org to be added to the email list.
Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, 10:00 a.m.-noon, Irish SIG (Virtual), with Susan McKee. Share information and discuss Irish ancestral research. View SGS calendar for details on joining this group.
Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, 1:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m, German SIG (Virtual), Share what you know OR get help with problems in your own research. Topic this month: German Emigration Records. Register on the SGS website.
Monday, Nov. 18, 2024, 10:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m., Brags & Bricks Social Interest Group (Virtual), Join us for an informal social gathering. Share your recent genealogical successes and challenges, or just come to hang out with other genealogists. Remember the new Zoom link started this month.Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2024, 1:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m., “Pass It On” Writers’ Group, Create your family history and share with others in an effort to improve your writing. Please note: The Writers’ Group is at the maximum number of participants and is not currently accepting any new members.
Monday, Nov. 25, 2024, 10:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m., Brags & Bricks Social Interest Group (Virtual), Join us for an informal social gathering. Share your recent genealogical successes and challenges, or just come to hang out with other genealogists. Remember the new Zoom link started this month.Tuesday, Nov. 26, 2024, 10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m., Tech Tuesday (Virtual), informal consultation time on DNA, genealogy software, or genealogy-related technical issues. All are welcome. No appointment necessary. Bring us your problem; we’ll try to help.
Sunday, Dec. 1, 2024, 1:00 pm-3:00 pm, DNA Workshop, with Cary Bright and Craig Gowens. To participate you need to be on the SGS DNA Interest Group email list. Contact Cary Bright at sgsdnasig@seagensoc.org to join.
Monday, Dec. 2, 2024, 10:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m., Brags & Bricks Social Interest Group (Virtual), Join us for an informal social gathering. Share your recent genealogical successes and challenges, or just come to hang out with other genealogists. Remember the new Zoom link started this month.Wednesday, Dec. 4, 2024, 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m., Pacific Northwest Interest Group (Virtual), Share information and discuss Pacific Northwest genealogical research. Register on the SGS website.Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024, 10:15 a.m.- 12:15 p.m., FamilySearch SIG, Discover the many ways to use the FamilySearch website in your research. Meeting includes instruction and time for Q&A. Email Lou to get on the email list: loudaly@nwlink.com.
Join SGS Today* to renew your membership: log in on the Members Home page and click the green renew membership button. November 1, 2024
SGS eNews! comes out the first of every month. contact eNews!
Be in the know! Receive notices for our virtual meetings, as well as the latest genealogy news and tips, by subscribing (free) to the online group at https://skcgs.groups.io
Skcgs.groups.io is the SKCGS online discussion and collaboration arena where:
we communicate and share information with each other
other than your email, you are not required to provide personal information
you can unsubscribe at any time
PROGRAM UPDATES
All meetings are online except the in-person Research Group and Genealogy Help at the Renton Highland Library
Due to the holidays, there will be no in-person GenHelp at KCLS Auburn or Federal Way library branches in November or December
Live transcription (captioning) is available during our Zoom meetings by request
Online meeting participants need to register for SKCGS Zoom meetings. Register at our website skcgs.org. Upon registration, Zoom will send a confirmation email with instructions on joining the meeting.
NOVEMBER – EARLY DECEMBER 2024 MEETINGS & EVENTS
Monday, November 11, 2024 ⋅ 1:00pm – 3:00pm PT Genetic Genealogy/DNA Interest Group (online) Topic: Dealing with changes in the DNA sites
23andMe
FTDNA > MyHeritage Trees
Ancestry.com: New tools & limitations
Register at https://www.skcgs.org After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. Subscribe to the free SKCGS Genetic-Genealogy email list for announcements and discussion: https://skcgs.groups.io/g/Genetic-Genealogy
Wednesday, November 13, 2024 ⋅ 6:00pm – 7:00pm PT Research Study Group – Step 7 of 10 (online) At each meeting, we’ll discuss one of the ten steps from Elizabeth Shown Mills’ webinar “Dissection & Analysis of Research Problems: 10 Steps to a Solution” This is not a free webinar; you will need a subscription from familytreewebinars.com to participate More information and registration at https://www.skcgs.org
Thursday, November 14, 2024 ⋅ 11:00am – 1:00pm PT Genealogy Help with SKCGS at Renton Highlands Library (in-person) Genealogy questions? SKCGS offers one-on-one help with a volunteer 2801 NE 10th Street Renton WA 98056 Registration not required. In-person event. Reasonable accommodation for people with disabilities is available by request. Email access@kcls.org at least seven days before the event. More information at King County Library, email jwooten@kcls.org
Friday, November 15, 2024, 1:00pm – 3:00pm PT Research Workshop (in-person) For SKCGS members Kent FamilySearch Center 12817 SE 256th St., Kent, WA Seating is limited RSVP REQUIRED to Winona at w.laird@skcgs.org
Saturday, November 16, 2024, 9:30am PT social time; 10am – 11:30am PT program (online) SKCGS General Membership Meeting and Speaker (Online) “Archives 101 for Genealogists” presented by Melissa Barker and Anne Jenner Genealogists should know what an archive is and some of the different kinds of archives that are out there. Archives have genealogical records that are not online but can only be found in archives. Melissa Barker will talk about different archives and the records that can help genealogists research their ancestors.
Genealogists often use their own family archives to mine important names and dates, but these collections of photos, scrapbooks, diaries and documents can be challenging to organize and preserve long term. Anne Jenner will share strategies for managing collections, conferring with archivists, and understanding what archival repositories can offer.
The question “what to do with family heirlooms, records, and research materials” is a question genealogical societies are asked most often. On the archives side, genealogists have been collecting records and artifacts which archives would love to get once the family is done with them. Collaboration is the best of all worlds, where historians, genealogists and archivists all work together.
Melissa Lemaster Barker is a Certified Archives Manager and public historian currently working at the Houston County, Tennessee Archives. She is known as the Archive Lady in the genealogy community. She lectures, teaches, and writes about the genealogy research process, researching in archives, and records preservation. She writes a blog called “A Genealogist in the Archives.” She has been a professional genealogist for the past 19 years with expertise in Tennessee records and has been researching her own family history for the past 34 years.
Anne Jenner has served as curator of the University of Washington Libraries Special Collections Pacific Northwest Collection since 2012. As curator, Anne works with donors and researchers to bring to light primary sources and library materials that document the people, history, and culture of the Pacific Northwest. She co-created the We Are History Keepers! free community archiving workshops to encourage everyone to preserve a more representative historical record of and for communities. Anne earned an M. A. in Scandinavian Languages and Literature at W before embarking on a career as a university instructor and librarian/archivist. She also earned an M. L. I. S. from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. The program will be recorded for playback by SKCGS Members. Guests welcome! Register at https://www.skcgs.org
Tuesday, December 3, 2024, 6:30pm PT SKCGS Board of Directors Meeting (online) All SKCGS members are invited to attend; only Officers and Directors may vote. Write to Board@skcgs.org for the meeting link.
Friday, December 6, 2024 ⋅ 12:30pm PT EGS German Interest Group (online) Topic: Christmas Stories by Claire Gebben For meeting registration, visit https://egsgermangroup.wordpress.com/
Saturday, December 7, 2024, 10:00am – 12:00pm PT Family Tree Maker Users Group (online) Question & Answer. Each month, we will learn about using the features of FTM. Register at https://www.skcgs.org After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. Subscribe to the free SKCGS FTM email list for announcements and discussion: https://skcgs.groups.io/g/FTMUG
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MEMBERSHIP: We welcome guests to our meetings and special interest groups, which are free. Naturally we hope that visitors will want to become members. Support like yours helps us to educate and engage with our community to foster interest in family and local history. Regarding our programs, even if and when we can meet again in person, we will continue with some virtual programs. You can find more information about membership at our website at https://www.skcgs.org/support-skcgs/membership.
You are receiving this email because you have attended a SKCGS meeting and indicated you would like to receive periodic notice of events. If you would like to be removed from our list and stop receiving emails from us, send an email to skcgsfriends+unsubscribe@skcgs.org.
Recreating the Great War: Finding Military Service Information for your WWI Veteran Many federal WWI personnel records were destroyed during a National Archives fire in the 1970s. Tina offers ways to locate copies of peripheral federal military records and provides solutions for recreating some of the lost history in these “fire” records by using local government documents, newspapers, service organization memberships and base records. Tina Beaird is the owner of Tamarack Genealogy and is a Genealogy & Local History Librarian at the Plainfield Library in Plainfield, IL. She holds a Master of Library and Information Science degree with a specialization in Archives/Preservation from Dominican University. Tina has won multiple research and digitization grants to preserve and digitize historic documents and photographs. If you liked our classes last year on “Between a Rock and a Hard Place” & “Internet Archives”, you’ll like this one too! When: Thursday, Nov. 7, 2024 Where:ZOOM & in-person Cost: $20 members / $25 non-members Sign-up & PaymentZOOM: Go to hqrl.com. Click on the HQRL Store and complete the registration form. Be sure to log-in as a member to receive your discount. In-Person (8 only) Call HQRL at 253-863-1806 or come into the library at 2102 East Main, Suite 105, Puyallup, WA 98372
Join us for an Open House celebrating Family History Month on Saturday, October 12, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.. SGS invites members and the community to drop by the SGS Library and get assistance with everything from getting started with genealogy to breaking down brick walls. Learn more about what SGS membership offers and watch our Second Saturday presentation together! There will be activities for kids, cookie decorating, snacks and more! All are welcome! Open House Volunteers Needed!We will be offering drop-in assistance for both beginners and brick walls as part of our Family History Month Open House. If you are available to volunteer on Saturday, October 12, between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., we need you! You don’t need to be on hand for the whole event. If you’re interested, please email Lisa Oberg at vicepresident@seagensoc.org. Even if you aren’t able to volunteer, we hope to see you there!TOP: photo courtesy Alisa Anton / Unsplash
TOUR THE NORTHWEST AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSEUM WITH SGS
Join SGS on a guided tour of the Northwest African American Museum to learn more about Black heritage, including how African Americans got to the Pacific Northwest.
We will see the work of the esteemed painter Jacob Lawrence, and view a series of his paintings examining Black history through his eyes. We’ll learn about his connections to Seattle.
We will see how a mother’s bravery opens the tragic story of her son’s visit from Chicago to Mississippi in the 1950’s. This highly respected traveling exhibit of Emmett Till’s story is only in Seattle through November. We’ll learn about his connections to Seattle.Sign up for the NAAM Tour The cost is $30 per person and $20 for members. Tour is limited to the first 25 paid registrations received.
STILL TIME TO SIGN UP FOR BEGINNING GENEALOGY CLASS SGS’s Beginning Genealogy class starting Oct. 8 still has open spots for both the daytime and evening class times. Having a good foundation of genealogy skills can save researchers years of mistakes. Learning with a group of enthusiastic family historians helps build skills and kick start their research.Join the class!MEXICAN GENEALOGY SPECIAL INTEREST GROUP IN THE WORKSSGS is in the planning stages for the launch of a SIG for Mexican genealogical research. Watch this space for more information.
SGS GAUGING INTEREST IN BOOK GROUP As the days get shorter, who else has visions of reading rainy days away? Lisa Oberg, SGS Vice President, has been pondering arranging a quarterly in-person evening book group discussion aimed at reading books of interest to genealogists. This would not mean how-tos, or methodology, but history works, fiction based on family history, and more.
The idea is still in early stage. If you’re interested in participating in such a book group, have questions or reading suggestions at contact Oberg at vicepresident@seagensoc.org. SAVE THE DATE Fiske Genealogical Library Classes Wednesdays, 10:00 a.m.-11:15 a.m.
Oct. 2 — “Using Collateral Relatives” with Claire Smith
Oct. 9 — “Hopping Down the Paper Trail” with Sara Cochran
Oct. 16 — “Intuitive Genealogy: Ancestral Healing Practices and Your Family Tree” with Joseph Anderson
Oct. 23 — “Show, Don’t Tell: Creative Nonfiction Writing for Genealogists” with Lisa Alzo
Oct. 30 — “New Frontiers in Genealogy” with Lisa Alzo
For more information see the Fiske Library website. Family Tree Maker SIG Eastside Genealogical Society Oct. 5, 2024, 10:30 p.m.-12:30 p.m.
Join Eastside Genealogical Society and SGS to learn and share tips and tricks for using Family Tree Maker by Software MacKiev. The meetings open about 15 minutes in advance. You can join and/or leave whenever you have to, and you may email your question(s) in advance or bring them up during the meeting.
2024 GFO Virtual Fall Seminar Genealogical Forum of Oregon Eastside Genealogical Society Friday, Nov. 1 through Saturday, Nov. 2, 2024
GFO has announced there 2024 Fall Seminar. It will feature a feast of DNA topics. Genetic Genealogist Paul Woodbury will discuss using DNA to solve genealogical questions. Friday evening will be a beginner session, with Saturday devoted to intermediate and advanced techniques. For more information visit the GFO’s website.
SGS CALENDAR OF EVENTS Good Shepherd Center, Suite 302 4649 Sunnyside Ave N Seattle, WA 98103 206 522-8658Hours : Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday ** 10:00 a.m .- 3:00 p.m. ** Always check the SGS Website Calendar of Events for the meeting links, registration, or for last minute updates or changes to the schedule. Be advised you may need to register in advance to join a meeting. All times listed are Pacific Time unless otherwise noted Wednesday, Oct. 2, 2024, 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m., Pacific Northwest Interest Group (Virtual), Share information and discuss Pacific Northwest genealogical research. Register on the SGS website.
Saturday, Oct. 1, 2024, 10:15 a.m.- 12:15 p.m., FamilySearch SIG, Discover the many ways to use the FamilySearch website in your research. Meeting includes instruction and time for Q&A. Email Lou to get on the email list: loudaly@nwlink.com Sunday, Oct. 6, 2024, 1:00 pm-3:00 pm, DNA Workshop, with Cary Bright and Craig Gowens. To participate you need to be on the SGS DNA Interest Group email list. Contact Cary Bright at SGSDNASIG@gmail.com to join.
Monday, Oct. 7, 2024, 10:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m., Brags & Bricks Social Interest Group (Virtual), Join us for an informal social gathering. Share your recent genealogical successes and challenges, or just come to hang out with other genealogists. Remember the new Zoom link started this month.Tuesday, Oct. 8, 2024, 10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m., Tech Tuesday (Virtual), informal consultation time on DNA, genealogy software, or genealogy-related technical issues. All are welcome. No appointment necessary. Bring us your problem; we’ll try to help.
Saturday, Oct. 12, 2024, 1:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m., Family History Month Open House (Special Events), Just getting started? Stuck on a brick wall? We’ll have experts on hand to help. Drop by and learn more about SGS, our library collection, membership perks and tips and tricks.Stay for a group viewing of Second Saturday.
Saturday, Oct. 12, 2024, 1:00 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Second Saturday, “Breaking Down Irish Brick Walls: Successful Case Studies in Finding Place of Origin,” Presented by Kerri Tannenbaum. Register here.Monday, Oct. 14, 2024, 10:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m., Brags & Bricks Social Interest Group (Virtual), Join us for an informal social gathering. Share your recent genealogical successes and challenges, or just come to hang out with other genealogists. Remember the new Zoom link started this month.Monday, Oct. 14, 2024, 1:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m., SGS Board of Directors Meeting (Virtual), All SGS members are welcome to attend. SGS is an all volunteer organization. Please be involved. Members must sign in to website to see Zoom link.
Monday, Oct. 14, 2024, 6:00 p.m.-7:30 p.m., Write It Up! SIG (Virtual), Join this group to share and discuss writing projects, resources, and ideas. To join or learn more, contact SGS Director of Education (education@seagensoc.org).
Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2024, 1:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m., “Pass It On” Writers’ Group, Create your family history and share with others in an effort to improve your writing. Please note: The Writers’ Group is at the maximum number of participants and is not currently accepting any new members.
Friday, Oct. 18, 2024, 1:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m., Scandinavian Interest Group SIG (in person), Share information and discuss Scandinavian ancestral research. This event will be in person at the SGS library.
Saturday, Oct. 19, 2024, 10:00 a.m.-noon, Irish SIG (Virtual), with Susan McKee. Share information and discuss Irish ancestral research.
Saturday, Oct. 19, 2024, 1:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m, German SIG (Virtual), Share what you know OR get help with problems in your own research. Topic this month: German Emigration Records. Register on the SGS website.
Monday, Oct. 21, 2024, 10:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m., Brags & Bricks Social Interest Group (Virtual), Join us for an informal social gathering. Share your recent genealogical successes and challenges, or just come to hang out with other genealogists. Remember the new Zoom link started this monthTuesday, Oct. 22, 2024, 10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m., Tech Tuesday (Virtual), informal consultation time on DNA, genealogy software, or genealogy-related technical issues. All are welcome. No appointment necessary. Bring us your problem; we’ll try to help.
Saturday, Oct. 26, 2024, 10:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m., DNA SIG, Topic to be announced. Message SGSDNASIG@gmail.com to join.
Monday, Oct. 28, 2024, 10:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m., Brags & Bricks Social Interest Group (Virtual), Join us for an informal social gathering. Share your recent genealogical successes and challenges, or just come to hang out with other genealogists. Remember the new Zoom link started this monthSaturday, Nov. 2, 2024, 10:15 a.m.- 12:15 p.m., FamilySearch SIG, Discover the many ways to use the FamilySearch website in your research. Meeting includes instruction and time for Q&A. Email Lou to get on the email list: loudaly@nwlink.com Sunday, Nov. 3, 2023, 1:00 pm-3:00 pm, DNA Workshop, with Cary Bright and Craig Gowens. To participate you need to be on the SGS DNA Interest Group email list. Contact Cary Bright at SGSDNASIG@gmail.com to join.
Wednesday, Nov. 6, 2024, 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m., Pacific Northwest Interest Group (Virtual), Share information and discuss Pacific Northwest genealogical research. Register on the SGS website.Thursday, Nov. 7, 2024, 11:00 a.m., SGS Tour of NW African American Museum (Field Trips), we invite you to join us there on a guided tour to learn more about Black heritage, including how African Americans got to the Pacific Northwest. Register here.Monday, Nov. 11, 2024, 1:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m., SGS Board of Directors Meeting (Virtual), All SGS members are welcome to attend. SGS is an all volunteer organization. Please be involved. Members must sign in to website to see Zoom link.
October 1, 2024
SGS eNews! comes out the first of every month. contact eNews!
Be in the know! Receive notices for our virtual meetings, as well as the latest genealogy news and tips, by subscribing (free) to the online group at https://skcgs.groups.io
Skcgs.groups.io is the SKCGS online discussion and collaboration arena where:
we communicate and share information with each other
other than your email, you are not required to provide personal information
you can unsubscribe at any time
PROGRAM UPDATES
All meetings are online except the in-person Research Group and Genealogy Help at the Auburn, Federal Way, and Renton Highland Libraries
Live transcription (captioning) is available during our Zoom meetings by request
Online meeting participants need to register for SKCGS Zoom meetings. Register at our website skcgs.org. Upon registration, Zoom will send a confirmation email with instructions on joining the meeting.
OCTOBER – EARLY NOVEMBER 2024 MEETINGS & EVENTS
Tuesday, October 1, 2024, 6:30pm PT SKCGS Board of Directors Meeting (online) All SKCGS members are invited to attend; only Officers and Directors may vote. Write to Board@skcgs.org for the meeting link.
Friday, October 4, 2024 ⋅ 12:30pm PT EGS German Interest Group (online) Topic: Finding Females in the US Naturalization Records, 1790-1952 by Nancy Loe For meeting registration, visit https://egsgermangroup.wordpress.com/
Saturday, October 5, 2024, 10:00am – 12:00pm PT Family Tree Maker Users Group (online) Question & Answer. Each month, we will learn about using the features of FTM. Register at https://www.skcgs.org After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. Subscribe to the free SKCGS FTM email list for announcements and discussion: https://skcgs.groups.io/g/FTMUG
Wednesday, October 9, 2024 ⋅ 6:00pm – 7:00pm PT Research Study Group – Step 5 of 10 (online) At each meeting, we’ll discuss one of the ten steps from Elizabeth Shown Mills’ webinar “Dissection & Analysis of Research Problems: 10 Steps to a Solution” This is not a free webinar; you will need a subscription from familytreewebinars.com to participate More information and registration at https://www.skcgs.org
Thursday, October 10, 2024 ⋅ 11:00am – 1:00pm PT Genealogy Help with SKCGS at Renton Highlands Library (in-person) Genealogy questions? SKCGS offers one-on-one help with a volunteer 2801 NE 10th Street Renton WA 98056 Registration not required. In-person event. Reasonable accommodation for people with disabilities is available by request. Email access@kcls.org at least seven days before the event. More information at King County Library, email jwooten@kcls.org
Friday, October 18, 2024, 1:00pm – 3:00pm PT Research Workshop (in-person) For SKCGS members Kent FamilySearch Center 12817 SE 256th St., Kent, WA Seating is limited RSVP REQUIRED to Winona at w.laird@skcgs.org
Saturday, October 19, 2024, 9:30am PT social time; 10am – 11:30am PT program (online) SKCGS General Membership Meeting and Speaker (Online) Pam Vestal presents “How to Write Family Stories People Will Read” Part of the thrill of genealogy is sharing our discoveries with those we love, so it can be disappointing when they have no interest in the subject. However, with good research, thoughtful planning, and a dash of ingenuity, we can create engaging stories designed to entice even the most reluctant readers. Topics include how to breathe life into dry genealogical facts, choosing a compelling story structure, and presenting your writing in an appealing way. Creating a captivating story from our ancestors’ names, dates, and places is like turning fish eggs into caviar: the facts don’t change, but the way we describe them makes all the difference.
Pam Vestal is a professional genealogist and speaker who turned her focus to her longtime love of genealogy after a 20-year writing career. Her articles have appeared in the National Genealogical Society Magazine and The Association of Professional Genealogists Quarterly, and her lectures take her from coast to coast. Pam specializes in conducting genealogical research and then transforming that information into illustrated stories that even non-genealogists can enjoy. The program will be recorded for playback by SKCGS Members. Guests welcome! Register at https://www.skcgs.org
Thursday, October 24, 2024 ⋅ 11:00am – 1:00pm PT Genealogy Help with SKCGS at the Auburn Library (in-person) Genealogy questions? SKCGS offers one-on-one help with a volunteer 1102 Auburn Way S Auburn, WA 98002 Registration not required. In-person event. Safety guidelines and current protocols followed. More information at King County Library, email kcls-auburn@kcls.org
Thursday, October 24, 2024 ⋅ 2:00pm – 4:00pm PT Genealogy Help with SKCGS at the Federal Way Library (in-person) Genealogy questions? SKCGS offers one-on-one help with a volunteer 34200 1st Way S Federal Way, WA 98003 Registration not required. In-person event. Safety guidelines and current protocols followed. More information at King County Library, https://kcls.org/locations/federal-way, or phone: (253) 838-3668 Thursday, October 24, 2024, 4:00pm PT Family Tree Maker Users Group Special Meeting (online) Mark Olsen presents to FTMUG about Family Tree Maker 2024 Register in advance for this meeting: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAld-mtpjsuHtAo1etMoeCwoQCH2o2gUOa2 After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. Questions? Contact w.laird@skcgs.org
Monday, October 28, 2024 ⋅ 1:00pm – 3:00pm PT Genealogy Chat (online) Meet up and chat about genealogy subjects and topics. We have no agenda; we just like one another! Register at https://www.skcgs.org After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. Subscribe to the free SKCGS email list for announcements and discussion: https://skcgs.groups.io/g/Society
Saturday, November 2, 2024, 10:00am – 12:00pm PT Family Tree Maker Users Group (online) Question & Answer. Each month, we will learn about using the features of FTM. Register at https://www.skcgs.org After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. Subscribe to the free SKCGS FTM email list for announcements and discussion: https://skcgs.groups.io/g/FTMUG
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MEMBERSHIP: We welcome guests to our meetings and special interest groups, which are free. Naturally we hope that visitors will want to become members. Support like yours helps us to educate and engage with our community to foster interest in family and local history. Regarding our programs, even if and when we can meet again in person, we will continue with some virtual programs. You can find more information about membership at our website at https://www.skcgs.org/support-skcgs/membership.
You are receiving this email because you have attended a SKCGS meeting and indicated you would like to receive periodic notice of events. If you would like to be removed from our list and stop receiving emails from us, send an email to skcgsfriends+unsubscribe@skcgs.org.
You are free to copy articles to any non-commercial web site or message board or printed publication you wish. Don’t bother to ask permission, just do it.
Till Fehmer Co-founder Fehmer Genealogy (2024)
HAVE YOU HEARD?
Tina Beaird is the owner of Tamarack Genealogy and is a Genealogy & Local History Librarian at the Plainfield Library in Plainfield, IL. She holds a Master of Library and Information Science degree with a specialization in Archives/Preservation from Dominican University. Tina has won multiple research and digitization grants to preserve and digitize historic documents and photographs. 
