SATURDAY, October 20th

Genealogy Problem Solvers 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.

This month, the Genealogy Problem Solvers (GPS) will attempt to unravel a complicated series of relationships and dramas in order to learn the parents of Harry E. Mitchell. The GPS team will review records from 1880 to 1930 in locations across the United States, including West Virginia, Kentucky, Iowa, Minnesota, and Washington, in an effort to solve a brick wall that has puzzled a GFO member, searching for any information about her grandfather, for over five years!

GPS is a monthly support group where we help each other find information about a family line. We will learn to do a reasonably exhaustive search and develop research plans. The focus will shift depending on the needs of the group. Several experienced researchers have volunteered to help. Beginners and intermediate researchers are encouraged to submit their problems for consideration. For more information contact Katie Daly at GPS@gfo.org.

Italian Group noon – 2 p.m.

The Italian Special Interest Group is dedicated to promoting Italian family history and genealogy through education of attendees in methodologies of sound genealogical research and by providing the necessary tools and expertise to be successful. Facilitated by Keith Pyeatt.

GenTalk – Digging for Ancestral Gold 2 – 3 p.m.

Presenter: Laurence Overmire, author

Digging for Ancestral Gold: The Fun and Easy Way to Get Started on Your Genealogy Quest

Discovering your family’s unique story is like solving a puzzle. You’ll fit together bits and pieces from relatives’ memories, old records, and photographs to create a picture of the past. When you’re a beginning researcher, the prospect of diving into your roots can seem overwhelming. Laurence will walk you through the basics of genealogy research: what records to look for, how to organize, and more. Before you know it, you’ll be well on your way on the fun and rewarding journey of discovering your roots.

SUNDAY, October 21st

Library Work Party 9:30 a.m. – noon

Hey there volunteers – we need you this Sunday!

We’ve fallen behind on labels again, and need YOUR help to catch up.

There’s another work party at the GFO library for those who can come.

Doors open at 9 and work usually wraps up around noon. Some people come for just an hour or so; others work the full time. You are welcome to do either. Any time you can share is valuable. Hope to see you there. Come and pitch in, then stay for one of the afternoon presentations.

P.S. There will be donuts!

Family Tree Maker for Beginners 1 – 3 p.m.

This is a beginning class for Family Tree Maker users and for those considering a purchase. It will be repeated quarterly.

French Canada Group 3:30 – 5 p.m.

The topic will be research and social media tools we are all using. Feel free to bring in the names of resources you use – websites, social media groups, books, etc.

Sharing stories of our history. Come and join this new group to learn more about French Canadian ancestry and Acadia. The group leader is Bob LaMarche.

FRIDAY, October 12th

Mexican Ancestry Group 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Finding your Hispanic ancestors from Mexico, Texas, Arizona, New Mexico, and California
This Special Interest Group (SIG) pertains specifically to Mexican ancestors from Mexico and the American Southwest (New Mexico, Arizona, Texas, and California).

Beginning and intermediate researchers are welcome. Some subjects will include online parish records, Hispanic genealogy societies, Family History Library/FamilySearch.org. Ancestry.com, solving genealogical problems, methodology of organizing your research, etc. Of course this group will also be about sharing our research experiences, and having fun.

If you know of any other people interested in Hispanic genealogy tell them about the up and coming group. They don’t have to be a GFO member to participate.
For questions or comments, please email Vince at sw@gfo.org.

SATURDAY, October 13th

Great Lakes Region 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.

Doing research in PA? Researcher Elsie Deatherage will be the guest speaker. Pennsylvania has several distinct ethnic and religious groups that kept different records than we may be accustomed to, but that are really helpful. Learn how to overcome the challenges of state boundary issues, the shifting borders of counties and townships and the difficulties in locating churches and cemeteries. We will look at the on and offline resources that are unique to the Keystone State. There will also be time to share our research quandaries and discoveries.

The group generally meets on the second Saturday of the month at 9:30 a.m. at the GFO library. No meetings in July, August, December, and always check the GFO calendar for updates to this schedule. Interest in the Great Lakes Region can be broad and diverse, as some ancestors settled and remained there for generations, while others spent a short time there before moving on. The group’s interests include migration, travel, trade, historical events, and research techniques specific to the area. For more information, please contact Lynn Rossing at GreatLakes@gfo.org.

Writers’ Forum 1 – 3 p.m.

At our last meeting we discussed what keeps us from writing and how we can make writing a regular part of our lives. We looked a web page from the Writing Cooperative, “30 Little Ways to Motivate Yourself to Write, RIGHT NOW.”

Take a look at this page if you haven’t already. The assignment we gave ourselves was to:

In addition to the above-noted assignment, please also do the following from Barry Tarshis’ book How to Be Your Own Best Editor:

Purpose: This is a peer group of genealogists, who meet to learn about writing and to share our writing with each other. Peggy Baldwin facilitates this group and can be reached at writers@gfo.org.

SUNDAY, October 14th

Library Work Party 9 a.m. – noon

There’s another work party at the GFO library today for those of you who can come. There’s lots to do and we’d love to have your help. Doors open at 9 and work usually wraps up around noon. Some people come for just an hour or so; others work the full time. You are welcome to do either. Any time you can share is valuable. Hope to see you there.

WEDNESDAY, October 17th

Library Closed to Research 11 a.m. – noon

OPB records interview for historical documentary. We’ll re-open for research as soon as the interview concludes.

Learn & Chat 10 a.m. – noon

Topic: “Surnames, Linguistic Groups, Disasporas.”

It is always fascinating to watch how this subject evolves from beginning at just one surname. At Learn & Chat some of the learning comes from speakers with particular expertise, but most of it comes from the sharing of experiences and knowledge of attendees who have developed methods that work for them. If you have been doing genealogy for any length time, you have likely experienced the wonderful moments of exhilaration, the successes that you then share with others and that drive you to continue researching. Unfortunately those times can be few and far between. Join us to talk about your genealogy questions and help provide support to others. Facilitated by Jeanne Quan and Sandy Alto. Questions, email learnandchat@gfo.org.

DNA Q&A

Lisa McCullough leads a discussion on various DNA related subjects, with each meeting focused on a particular subject. General questions are welcome at the end of each planned discussion. Questions? Email Lisa at dna_qa@gfo.org.

Irish Group 6 – 8 p.m.

Are you one of over 30 million Americans who have Irish ancestors?

At this meeting, Karen Hubbard will present a timeline of Irish history, so we can put our Irish ancestors in context with their times, and better understand how to research them. We’ll also try to help with “brick walls” in Ireland, or answer other general questions about Ireland’s history and Irish research. If you’d like to submit a brick wall question for us to address, please email Irish@gfo.org, at least one week in advance.

SATURDAY, October 6th

Virginia Group 10 a.m. – noon

October Meeting Topic: Exploring the Library of Congress Website

The Library of Congress website is a valuable resource for U.S. genealogical and historical research, but it is one of the most under-utilized. According to professional genealogist J. Mark Lowe it is only used about 15% of the expected amount. Perhaps many researchers are not familiar with the large amount of material available, and do not understand that one can actually find not only general historical information, but specific information about your family.

For our October meeting we will explore the LOC website and give numerous examples of its benefits to our research. Please send inquires to Virginia@gfo.org. For more information, please also see our “Virginia Roots and Vines” blog.

German Group Noon – 3 p.m.

First, some food! Come at noon and bring a tasty German treat to share with the group to celebrate Oktoberfest. The potluck will run from noon to 1 p.m. Then stay for a demonstration of GFO’s links, plus see a list of the surnames and locations that are being researched by our members and learn how to add yours.

The German Interest Group was formed in the spring of 2011. It is intended to be a source of information and inspiration for anyone with German speaking ancestors. One goal is to provide information on a variety of topics related to Germanic history and migration. We also will provide time for members to share their research journeys and connect with others who may be researching the same region or time period.

SUNDAY, October 7th

Manuscripts Work Party 9 a.m. – noon

Explore our manuscript, personal papers and Bible collection while we organize, scan and create finding aids. Drop by at the time that works for you. Questions? Send a note to manuscripts@gfo.org.

TUESDAY, October 9th

GFO Board of Directors Meeting 6:10 – 8:10 p.m.

Come join GFO’s Board of Directors and see the magic that keeps our research library and its plethora of community-focused activities going! These meetings are open to the public.

MONDAY, October 1st

Free First Monday 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Come out each first Monday of every month and splurge on all GFO’s wonderful resources for FREE. Explore our online databases like Fold3, Ancestry World Library Edition, Newspapers.com, and many more. Our analog and microfilm collections total some 49,000 items. Don’t miss out!

WEDNESDAY, October 3rd

Learn & Chat 10:00 a.m. – noon

Gerry Lenzen presents “Selecting Software: Features and Foibles.” What program best suits your needs? How to decide. At Learn & Chat some of the learning comes from speakers with particular expertise but most of it comes from the sharing of experiences and knowledge of attendees who have developed methods that work for them. And if you have been doing genealogy for any length time you have likely experienced the wonderful moments of exhilaration, the successes that you then share with others and that drive you to continue researching. Unfortunately those times can be few and far between. Join us to talk about your genealogy questions and help provide support to others. Facilitated by Jeanne Quan.

DNA Q&A 1 – 3 p.m.

Lisa McCullough will be available to help answer your DNA questions, whether you are new and just getting started or have more involved questions. Questions? Send Lisa McCull a note at dna_qa@gfo.org.

FRIDAY, September 14th

Mexican Ancestry Group 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Find your Hispanic ancestors from Mexico, Texas, Arizona, New Mexico, and California! This Special Interest Group (SIG) pertains specifically to Mexican ancestors from Mexico and the American Southwest (New Mexico, Arizona, Texas, and California).

Beginning and intermediate researchers are welcome. Some subjects will include online parish records, Hispanic genealogy societies, Family History Library/FamilySearch.org. Ancestry.com, solving genealogical problems, methodology for organizing your research, etc. Of course this group will also be about sharing our research experiences, and having fun.

If you know of any other people interested in Hispanic genealogy, tell them about the group. They don’t have to be a GFO member to participate. For questions or comments, please email Vince at sw@gfo.org.

SATURDAY, September 15th

Analyze Your Ancestor’s Handwriting 2 – 3 p.m.
Presenter: Joyce Brizendine

What personality traits may your ancestor’s handwriting reveal? Do two signature samples belong to the same person? This presentation will use the handwriting of famous people to illustrate principles of handwriting analysis. Attendees are encouraged to bring samples of their own ancestors’ handwriting for our expert’s opinion.

Joyce Brizendine is a professional handwriting analyst, certified by the International Graphoanalysis Society and by the American Handwriting Analysis Foundation. She has taught and lectured about handwriting analysis, and appears periodically on AM Northwest.

SUNDAY, September 16th

Library Work Party 9 a.m. – noon

There’s another work party at the GFO library today for those of you who can come. There’s lots to do and we’d love to have your help. We begin work at 9 a.m. If the front door is not unlocked, please come around to the side door and knock. Work usually wraps up around noon. Some people come for just an hour or so; others work the full time. You are welcome to do either. Any time you can share is valuable. Hope to see you there.

Family Tree Maker Users’ Group 1 – 3 p.m.

This month, Geoff Smith leads our lesson in how to use FTM sources and citations.

Join other users who want to work through the 2017 Companion Guide to Family TreeMaker. Bring your laptop with 2017 version of FTM installed or build 1-480 of FTM installed.

Questions? Please email Joyce Grant-Worley at FTM@gfo.org.

French Canada Group 3:30 – 5 p.m.

We will share our major ancestral lines and also play “Saints and Sinners,” discussing some of our more colorful and noteworthy ancestors. If you have French Canadian and/or Acadian roots please join us! You are likely to meet some cousins there. The group leader is Bob LaMarche.

WEDNESDAY, September 19th

Learn & Chat 10 a.m. – noon

Lori Washburn presents: “Know Before You Go: Bring Cash!” Changes in access to public records, the effect of digitalization and budgets. What’s available and where? Are there fees?

At Learn & Chat some of the learning comes from speakers with particular expertise, but most of it comes from the sharing of experiences and knowledge of attendees who have developed methods that work for them. And if you have been doing genealogy for any length time you have likely experienced the wonderful moments of exhilaration, the successes that you then share with others and that drive you to continue researching. Unfortunately those times can be few and far between. Join us to talk about your genealogy questions and help provide support to others. Facilitated by Jeanne Quan.

DNA Q&A 1 – 3 p.m.

Lisa McCullough leads a discussion on various DNA related subjects, with each meeting focused on a particular subject. General questions are welcome at the end of each planned discussion. Send questions or comments to Lisa at dna_lm@gfo.org.

SATURDAY, September 8th

Great Lakes Region SIG 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Midwest + September = Football. Need we say more? Staying seasonally appropriate, the presentation topic is sports and games that were around when our ancestors arrived in the area, and what they brought with them when they moved there. Any Turnverein or Sokol members in your family? Please bring any stories and pictures of your athletic ancestors with you. We will also look at some of society’s attitudes toward health and fitness, and at the parks movement. It’s a fascinating lens for viewing our ancestors’ lives and experiences. There will also be time for sharing our research. As always, all are welcome. Contact us at greatlakes@gfo.org with any questions.

The group generally meets on the second Saturday of the month at 9:30 a.m. at the GFO library. No meetings in July, August, December, and always check the GFO calendar for updates to this schedule. Interest in the Great Lakes Region can be broad and diverse, as some ancestors settled and remained there for generations, while others spent a short time there before moving on. The group’s interests include migration, travel, trade, historical events, and research techniques specific to the area. For more information contact Lynn Rossing at GreatLakes@gfo.org.

Writers’ Forum 1 – 3 p.m.

Purpose: This is a peer group of genealogists meeting to learn about writing and to share our writing with each other. Peggy Baldwin facilitates this group and can be reached at peggyrbaldwin@gmail.com or 503-916-9410.

Meetings: September through May, second Saturday of each month, from 1:00 to 3:00 pm in the GFO Library.

SUNDAY, September 9th

Library Work Party 9 a.m. – noon

There’s another work party at the GFO library today for those of you who can come. There’s lots to do and we’d love to have your help. We begin work at 9 a.m. If the front door is not unlocked, please come around to the side door and knock. Work usually wraps up around noon. Some people come for just an hour or so; others work the full time. You are welcome to do either. Any time you can share is valuable. Hope to see you there.

MONDAY, September 3rd

Free First Monday! Come one! Come all! GFO’s research library is free and open to the public for full use of any and all our resources every first Monday of every month. We’re proud to offer you nearly 50,000 holdings (including microfilms of the Oregon Donation Land Claim records, the original Multnomah County marriage registers from the late 1800s and early 1900s, New York passenger lists, and much, much more. This month’s Labor Day holiday pushed our Free First Monday back to this week, so if you thought you missed it, well you’re actually still in luck! Hope to see you there.

SATURDAY, September 1st

Virginia Group 10 a.m. – noon

This meeting will include reports on our genealogy experiences over the summer, and discussion of our plans for this year. One often-requested topic is the history and genealogy research information for North Carolina. To start this topic, we will have some discussion of the very early exploration and settlement attempts’ of North Carolina.

For more information see our blog: “Virginia Roots and Vines.”

Research in Virginia can be difficult, with the complication of burned counties, as well as the ordinary difficulties of using historical documents. But it is not impossible. We discuss the history of Virginia and explore various methods to do sound genealogy research. We hope to foster collaboration among our many Virginia researchers and work on our varied research problems, our brick walls, together. Each month we will have a discussion or presentation on a topic related to our research. There will also be time each meeting for discussion, suggestions, and perhaps research on individual research. We’ll also explore the settlement of Kentucky, the Carolinas and Tennessee. Group leaders include Judi Scott and Carol Surrency.

German Group 1 – 3 p.m.

Christine Rainer will talk about visits to several ancestral villages on a trip to her native country, Germany. The German Interest Group was formed in the spring of 2011. It is intended to be a source of information and inspiration for anyone with German speaking ancestors. One goal is to provide information on a variety of topics related to Germanic history and migration. We also will provide time for members to share their research journeys and connect with others who may be researching the same region or time period. Mike Fernandez and Tia Cobb facilitate this group.

SUNDAY, September 2nd

Manuscripts Work Party 9 a.m. – noon

Explore our manuscript, personal papers and Bible collection while we organize, scan and create finding aids. Drop by at the time that works for you. Questions? Send a note to manuscripts@gfo.org.

MONDAY, September 3rd

Labor Day Library Closure Free First Monday will be observed on September 10th. Come on out and give us a visit.

WEDNESDAY, September 5th

Learn & Chat 10 a.m. – noon

Learn and Chat reconvenes following its summer hiatus welcoming your voice as we plan our 2018-2019 calendar, structure with lots of room for spontaneity.

As a group we support one another sharing skills and resources. As we parted company in June thoughts included “Back to the Basics: Walking the Shelves” and “Selecting a Software Program: Featured and Foibles.” What do you need? What can you contribute? Facilitated by Jean Quan.

DNA Q&A 1 – 3 p.m.

Lisa McCullough will be available to help answer your DNA questions, whether you are new and just getting started or have more involved questions. Questions? Write to Lisa.