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.

Register for Zoom Here

images courtesy Library of Congress and
Ian MacDonald, Ismael Paramo, Ahmed Muntasir and Steven Cordes /Unsplash

ANCESTOR ART PROJECT

FAMILY HISTORY MONTH FALL FLING OPEN HOUSE

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!

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background images courtesy Ivan Rohovchenko and Dan Cristian Padure / Unsplash
inset photos courtesy Library of Congress

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN
FOR BEGINNING GENEALOGY CLASS

Gain the skills you need to research your family’s story by joining this fun, online, interactive class.

This class includes four weekly sessions online with a fifth, optional session in person at the SGS library. The class covers how to successfully conduct, organize, and record research for your genealogy. How to begin? How to evaluate evidence? What are the best sources? Where are the records–online and off? What can DNA tell us?

Start your journey on a foundation of good habits and best practices.  Participation will help you develop great genealogy skills.  The course finishes with a list of favorite sources for additional learning and an optional meet-up with a personal research session at the SGS library.

The first class is Tuesday, October 8. There are two class sessions to chose from: one in the afternoon from 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. and one in the evening from 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
 

• Weeks 1-4 will meet virtually and consist of lecture, discussion, and workshop for one-and-a-half-hours each session.
• Week 5 (optional) includes a library tour and one-on-one research assistance.

 
Class fee $80 (SGS members $60). For additional information see the SGS website.

Join the class!

JAMES SECAN RECOGNISED BY WSGS
FOR SERVICE TO SGS

James A. Secan has been selected by the Seattle Genealogical Society (SGS) as their recipient of a Washington State Genealogical Society Outstanding Volunteer Award. 

Secan joined SGS and started writing grants in 2018. A year later, he agreed to serve our community as president. He is honored as a leader who began his presidency while COVID-19 changed our world. Secan has provided operational soundness for four years through a global pandemic, a pivot to online offerings, and the relocation of our library to a smaller space. Secan led the organization while maintaining a robust membership, keeping a good balance sheet, and passing a new set of bylaws with more streamlined Board structure. Secan served with a commitment to strong operations, a steady hand, and compassion for those who needed to evolve during this time of significant change. 

It is with great pride and much appreciation that Secan is recognized as an Outstanding Volunteer by the Washington State Genealogical Society and the Seattle Genealogical Society. 

TOUR THE FISKE GENEALOGICAL LIBRARY WITH SGS

Plus: Spots Left on SGS Tour of Puget Sound
Regional Branch of the WA State Archives

The Fiske Genealogical Library is a hidden treasure located in the Madison Park neighborhood of Seattle and SGS is offering patrons the opportunity to get better aquatinted with all the Fiske has to offer. SGS is sponsoring a tour of the Fiske Friday, Oct. 11, from 10:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

The Fiske is notable for its collection of rare genealogical books, 30% of which are available in fewer than twenty libraries in the world. Some 4% of the books in the collection are not reported to be in any other library! The collection is particularly rich in materials related to colonial New England and North America.

Dave Brazier, President of the Fiske Genealogical Library, will be our guide for a two-hour tour. His presentation will focus on the library’s history and organization. He will be available after the presentation until 3:00 pm for those who would like some one-on-one time to hone their search/research skills. 
 

Sign up for the Fiske Tour

The cost is $20 per person, $15 for members. Tour is limited to the first 15 paid registrations received.
 

Hurry! Spots Remain for State Archive Tour:

The SGS sponsored tour of the Puget Sound Regional Branch of the WA State Archives still has open spots. This tour will take place Sept. 17, at 10:30 a.m. Get more information and claim your spot today. 

 BERNICE KELLER NAMED 2024 SGS VOLUNTEER
OF SUMMER QUARTER

One month after celebrating her 100th’s birthday SGS is honoring Bernice Keller in another way. She was nominated by Kathi M, SGS Librarian, to be SGS’s volunteer of the summer quarter. This nomination was unanimously agreed upon by the board.

How long have you been a member of SGS? 

KELLER: I have been a member for about 60 years. I don’t remember the exact date but we met at the Campfire Girls building and I took my first beginner’s class with Marilyn Rose. I am still amused that she said her sister “adjusted” some dates to suit the ages she wanted people to know.

Have you attended events, seminars and classes? 

KELLER: I have attended quite a few seminars and other meetings over the years but not recently.

What volunteer activities do you help with? 

KELLER: I come in on Thursdays for volunteer work on material considered archival that needs to be processed ready for scanning. The fellowship with other volunteers is great and the work is sometimes interesting and sometimes not so much. I have volunteered every once in a while for 60 years in various capacities.

What family research are you currently working on?

KELLER: I’m trying to verify some holes in the family data my mother started in about 1950. I'd like to know where my great great grandfather spent the first five years of his life after his mother died in childbirth. The family lore doesn’t seem likely.

Do you have hobbies or enjoy other activities?

KELLER: I maintain my patio flowers and very limited other garden work. I have managed to save my favorite geranium for about five years by taking cuttings in the fall and growing them in my garden window until spring.

— • —

Thank you Bernice for your 60 years of service! SGS members, volunteers, and the Board are grateful for your commitment to Seattle Genealogical Society.

SGS WEBSITE TO LIST
MEMBER’S PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Are you looking to offer your skills in genealogy to others? Want to spread the word about your skills? The SGS is offering the opportunity for members to publish their professional services either as a lecturer or researcher — or both — on the SGS website. This will be provided at no cost to SGS members. Not a member? Joining is easy! 
 

Provide your information today!

Sign up to be listed as a Researcher

Sign up to be listed as a Lecturer

The November 1890 Orphans to Iowa
courtesy New York Historical Society and the Children’s Aid Society of New York
 

SGS’S MEMBER’S ORPHAN TRAIN PROJECT A TWO-YEARS LABOR OF LOVE 

In Fall of 1890 forty-six unnamed New York City orphans arrived in rural Hamilton County, Iowa. Discovering their stories has been SGS member, and former SGS president, Jill Morelli’s aim. She recently completed a book and website, “Journeys of the Forgotten,” showcasing her research into the stories of this children.

SAVE THE DATE

Family Tree Maker SIG
Eastside Genealogical Society
Sept. 20, 2024, 10:30 pm-12:30 pm

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 noted

Sunday, Sept. 1, 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. 

Monday, Sept. 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 monthWednesday, Sept.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.

Monday, Sept. 9, 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, Sept. 9, 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, Sept. 9, 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, Sept.  10, 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, Sept.  11, 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, Sept. 14, 2024, 12:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m., General Membership Meeting, What will SGS prioritize in the years ahead as a result of 20+ of our members gathering for our June strategic planning retreat? Come find out. Register here.Saturday, Sept. 14, 2024, 1:00 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Second Saturday, Join Kimball Carter, CG, as he shares insights gained in his more than 45 years of family history research experience. Topic to be announced. Register here.Monday, Sept. 16, 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, Sept. 17, 2024, 10:30 a.m., Tour of the Regional State Archives, Join the staff of the Puget Sound Regional Branch of the Washington State Archives in Bellevue for an overview of this repository and its collections, and a behind the scenes tour of the stacks. There are still open spots! Register here.

Tuesday, Sept. 17, 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.

Saturday, Sept. 21, 2024, 10:00 a.m.-noon, Irish SIG (Virtual), with Susan McKee. Share information and discuss Irish ancestral research. 

Monday, Sept. 23, 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, Sept.  24, 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, Sept. 28, 2024, 1:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m., DNA SIG, Topic to be announced. Message SGSDNASIG@gmail.com to join.

Monday, Sept. 30, 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 monthWednesday, 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. 5, 2024, 10:15 am-12:15 pm, FamilySearch SIG (Virtual), with Lou Daly. Discover 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, 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. 

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

stock images courtesy Erol Ahmed and Leiada Krozjhen / Unsplash
 

VISIT TO THE PUGET SOUND BRANCH
SET FOR SEPT. 17

Join the staff of the Puget Sound Regional Branch of the Washington State Archives in Bellevue for an overview of this repository and its collections, and a behind the scenes tour of the stacks. All field trip participants will be able to request a file to view after the tour. A prior visit yielded photos and description of great great grandparents first Seattle home built pre-1900, a tax assessors book naming second great uncle in Washington Territory 1881, and a Sanborn map pre-1910 showing great grandpa’s first residence under today’s Westin Hotel towers in Seattle.  What might you discover?

The tour will be at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 17. Limit 24 people. The cost is $10 for SGS members, and $15 for non-members. Details follow registration. This event is hosted by the SGS Field Trip Committee.
 

Sign up for the tour

CAROLYN SCHOTT LEVELS UP, EARNS CREDENTIAL 

Congratulations are due to Carolyn Schott. Schott has just received word that she is Washington’s (and SGS’s) latest individual to receive the credential of Certified Genealogist. You may know her as the German SIG leader. Schott took SGS’s Certification Discussion Group course in the winter 2020. The program is administered by the Board for Certification of Genealogists.

You can find out more about the certification at https://bcgcertification.org. You can find out more about the Certification Discussion Group at https://theCDGseries.wordpress.com. Next class is fall 2024.

courtesy Jill Morelli

Susan Waller, right, came in to research her Germanic ancestors, while Natalie Douglas made use of the scanner, scanning her ancestral photos

courtesy Amanda Bennett

Bernice Keller (far right in both photos) has turned 100. The Thursday work group gathered to celebrate at the library on July 18. Keller has been a part of the archives committee and the Thursday group for at least 12 years! We are so excited to mark her centennial.

SAVE THE DATE

AppGen Signups to Begin Soon
Aug. 22–28, 2024

Applied Genealogy Institute classes cove a variety of topics. You can find out more on the website. These courses are oriented towards “Learn By Doing.”

Family Tree Maker SIG
Eastside Genealogical Society
Aug. 16, 2024, 10:30 pm-12:30 pm

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.


East European Family History Conference
Tuesday, August 6 through Friday, August 9
Salt Lake City (in person)

The Foundation for East European Family History Studies (FEEFHS) will hold its annual conference on August 6-9, 2024, in Salt Lake City, Utah. More than 60 sessions will be presented in 8 tracks: German, Polish, Russian, Germans from Eastern Europe, Austro-Hungarian, Jewish, DNA, and Resources. For more information visit the FEEFHS website.


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 notedMonday, Aug. 5, 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 monthWednesday, Aug. 7, 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.

Monday, Aug. 12, 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, Aug. 12, 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, Aug.

12, 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, Aug.

 13, 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.

Monday, Aug. 19, 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 monthMonday, Aug. 26, 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, Aug.

 27, 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, Sept. 1, 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. 

Monday, Sept. 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 monthWednesday, Sept .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.

Romain Dancre / Unsplash
 

CERTIFICATION COURSE TO BE OFFERED THIS FALL

The Certification Discussion Group (CDG) course will be offered this October as a virtual course. More than 700 students have graduated from this SGS course, now in its seventh year. Join in and learn about the Board for Certification of Genealogy’s certification process. Gain an understanding of how to develop a portfolio. Strengthen your knowledge of the standards for being a better genealogist. Find out if certification is right for you. Sign up for the waitlist to get the announcement of dates and times in August. Final decisions can be made at that time.

 

HELP SPREAD THE NEWS ABOUT SGS AT THE SKAGIT VALLEY HIGHLAND GAMES

SGS is sharing the Clans of Ireland booth at the 28th Annual Skagit Valley Highland Games & Celtic Festival and volunteers are needed to staff the booth. This two-day festival of music, dance, competition and entertainment will be held at the Skagit County Fairgrounds (501 Taylor St in Mt Vernon, WA) on the weekend of July 13–14, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days. If you are interested in helping staff our table for several hours, please contact James Ryan at janglinjehu@yahoo.com.

APPGEN SIGNUPS TO BEGIN SOON 

Mark you calendars. Sign up for the fall Applied Genealogy Institute classes from August 22 to 28. Classes offered will include

• DNA Analysis
• Native American research
• Records after Death
• Researching Overseas
• Connecticut Genealogy and Social Media Marketing (oriented toward professional genealogists and society social media partners.)

You can find out more on the website. These courses are oriented towards “Learn By Doing.” The instructors are content experts.

 SGS MEMBERS, REMEMBER TO RENEW

Take a few moments now to renew your membership as we begin our next century! When you renew online you can pay your dues with a credit/debit card right away or print out your invoice and send it with your dues payment to SGS. First log in at Members Home then click the green “Renew Membership” button. If you haven’t logged in before or have questions, send an email to membership@seagensoc.org.
 
NOT AN SGS MEMBER YET?

Join online today and enjoy a full year of discounted class and event fees, free research requests, special interest groups, and access to exclusive SGS publications and databases. Find out more about membership at Join SGS.

SAVE THE DATE

American Ancestors by NEHGS (FREE Webinars)
Thursdays, July 11 and 18, 12:00 p.m.-1:00 p.m.

An Introduction to California Research – July 11
California has a rich history that reflects the state’s diverse cultural heritage and dynamic social changes. In this online lecture, Genealogist Meaghan E. H. Siekman will provide an introduction to doing family history research in the state starting with the period of pre-contact to statehood and beyond.

Understanding and Utilizing Indexes – July 18
Indexes are an unparalleled resource for genealogists, yet not all are arranged the same way. Join Senior Genealogist Melanie McComb to understand the different types of indexes that you will come across and how to leverage them in your family history research.

For more information visit the American Ancestors website.

East European Family History Conference
Tuesday, August 6 through Friday, August 9
Salt Lake City (in person)

The Foundation for East European Family History Studies (FEEFHS) will hold its annual conference on August 6-9, 2024, in Salt Lake City, Utah. More than 60 sessions will be presented in 8 tracks: German, Polish, Russian, Germans from Eastern Europe, Austro-Hungarian, Jewish, DNA, and Resources. For more information visit the FEEFHS website.


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 noted

Wednesday, July 3, 2024, 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m.,  Pacific Northwest Interest Group (Virtual), This month’s focus in on Idaho and Montana resources. Register on the SGS website.

Monday, July 8, 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, July 8, 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, July

8, 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, July

9, 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, July 10, 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. 

Monday, July 15, 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, July 22, 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, July

 23, 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.

Monday, July 29, 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, August 5, 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, August 7, 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.