Seattle Genealogical Society “Finally Get Organized”

Seattle Genealogical Society Tip of the Week New Content on Newspapers.com

TIP OF THE WEEK – NEW CONTENT ON NEWSPAPERS.COM Newspapers.com has added over 150 new papers from the US, Canada and Panama. Included are new US papers from Alabama, California, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Massachusetts, Missouri, Montana, New Jersey, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Wisconsin and Wyoming. New papers have also been added for Ontario and Panama City.
April 1, 2024 SGS eNews! comes out the first of every month. contact eNews!

Seattle Genealogical Society April Happenings

Apr2 by Charles Hansen

Warren Umoh / Unsplash

SGS OFFERS THREE-PART DNA CLASS

Want to get into using DNA in your tree but don’t know where to start? SGS is offering a three-part class over three weeks to give you the knowledge you need to get going.

Week 1:
Why use DNA?
Types of DNA
Types of tests and what you can learn from each

Week 2:
Deeper dive into autosomal DNA
Introduction to third-party tools

Week 3:
Deeper dive on mitochondrial and Y-DNA
Resources for continuing your learning

Classes are April 3, 10, and 17. Each 90-minute sessions will be conducted via Zoom. The cost is $80 (SGS members $65). Max enrollment is set to 20, so sign up soon.

Get more information

AMBASSADOR TO SHARE WHAT’S NEW IN FTM 2024

Family Tree Maker is hitting the road as it prepares to launch its newest release. FTM Ambassador, Mark Olsen, will be stopping at the Good Shepherd Center in Seattle to demonstrate the new features of FTM 2024 as well as teach all things related to the software and its partner products. There will be two opportunities to attend the session: one during the day (11 a.m.-2 p.m.) and another in the evening (5:30-8:30 p.m.).

The event will be in Room 202, a larger meeting room at the Good Shepherd Center. Seating is limited to 50 people. Please arrive early. Registration link coming soon.

GET A GUIDED TOUR OF SEATTLE PUBLIC LIBRARY’S GENEALOGICAL RESOURCES

SGS has a long history of collaboration with the Seattle Public Library (SPL). Join us for a guided tour of SPL’s genealogical resources with SPL’s own genealogical librarian. This event is limited to 20 people, so sign up today!

The Seattle Room on the 10th floor of the Central Library is open to researchers by appointment only. It holds more than 50,000 items documenting and exploring the culture and history of Seattle and the Pacific Northwest. Get a glimpse behind the scenes and learn about resource that can aid your study of the Seattle area and its people.

The Genealogy Department on the 9th floor originally housed many books donated by SGS researchers of 100 years ago and now holds some SGS archival materials. Check the SGS catalog for resources that were transferred to SPL when SGS vacated the Sand Point facility.

Following the morning tour, consider breaking for lunch with others or conducting your personal research. The library is open until 6pm.

NEW PACIFIC NORTHWEST SIG ANNOUNCED

Seattle Genealogical Society is delighted to announce a new special interest group (SIG) focused on Pacific Northwest genealogical research. This SIG will meet via Zoom on the first Wednesday of each month at 6:30PM Pacific, 9:30PM Eastern. SGS membership is encouraged but not required. More information at the SGS website. Inaugural meeting May 1st.

NEW RECORDS ON FOLD3

Fold3 has added a new collection of records for Black and Indigenous Soldiers who served in the Revolutionary War. The records are primarily manuscripts dating from 1775-1783 and include muster rolls, pay vouchers and enlistment records. The records are varied, but may contain information such as: the name of the solider, the unit, regiment and rank. They can also include birthdate and place of birth, occupation, date and place of enlistment and further military history or history of enslavement.SGS SURVEY EXTENDED TO SUNDAY APRIL 7TH

If you have not yet submitted your SGS Survey for the future now is your chance. And now, no sign-in is required!

Take the Survey

SAVE THE DATESpring Virtual Classes
Fiske Genealogical Library
Wednesdays 10:00 am-noon

Join the Fiske’s free virtual classes.

April 3: “Piecing it Together, Discovering a Family Secret,” with Claire Smith
April 17: “Which Hans Jensen is Mine? Navigating Scandinavian Patronymics,” with Jenny Hansen

For further information see the Fiske website.

“Discover the Power of Your DNA”
San Mateo County Genealogical Society
Saturday April 13, 2024, 9:00 am-2:00 pm

Learn the Fundamentals of DNA. Find more information and register.

“How to Write a Family Portrait”
Eastside Genealogical Society
April 18, 2023, 6:00 pm-7:00 pm

In this hour-long, free generative writing workshop, essayist Kristen Millares Young will use guided prompts and discussions to help you plan, write, and revise your family stories. For more information and to register.
Tacoma-Pierce County Spring Seminar with Cyndi Ingle and Cari A. Taplin
Tacoma-Pierce County Genealogical Society
Saturday April 27, 2024, 8:45 am-3:15 pm

Smarter Searching: Refining Search Parameters for Genealogists
Off the Shelf: The Unexplored Potential for eBooks in Genealogy
Using Timelines to Analyze Your Research
The Heart of It All: A New Hampshire to Ohio Migration Case Study

for more information and to register, visit the Tacoma-Pierce County Genealogical Society 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 am – 3:00 pm ** 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, April 1, 2024, 10:00 am-11:30 am, 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.

Saturday, April 1, 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.comSunday, April 7, 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, April 8, 2024, 10:00 am-11:30 am, 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.

Monday, April 8, 2024, 6:00 pm-7:30 pm, Write It Up! SIG (Virtual), Join this group to share and discuss writing projects, resources, and ideas. To join or learn more, contact Alaine Keisling at keisling@gmail.com.

Tuesday, April 9, 2024, 10:00 am-11:00 am, 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, April 14 2024, 1:00 am-3:00 pm, Scandinavian Interest Group (Virtual), “Indexed vs Non-indexed searches for Norway and Sweden” hosts Karen Knudson and Kathi M. Share information and discuss Scandinavian ancestral research.

Monday, April 15, 2024, 10:00 am-11:30 am, 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.Tuesday, April 16, 2024, 1:00 pm-3:00 pm, “Pass It On” Writers’ Group (Social Interest 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, April 19, 2024, 10:00 am-12:30 pm, Seattle Public Library Tour (Special Events), at Seattle Central Library, 1000 Fourth Ave., Seattle. SGS has a long history of collaboration with the Seattle Public Library (SPL). Join us for a guided tour of SPL’s genealogical resources. LIMITED TO 20 PEOPLE. Reserve your spot today.

Saturday, April 20, 2024, 10:00 am-noon, Irish SIG (Virtual), with Susan McKee. Share information and discuss Irish ancestral research. See the SGS website Calendar of Events for further information.

Saturday, April 20, 2024, 1:00 pm-3:00 pm, German SIG (Virtual),
Our speaker for April, Merv Weiss, will be exploring the topic of learning about his German-ness with his talk, “Growing Up German Without Realizing It.” Register on the SGS website.

Monday, April 22, 2024, 10:00 am-11:30 am, 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.

Tuesday, April 23, 2024, 10:00 am-11:00 am, 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. Thursday, April 25, 2024, two times: 11:00 am-1:00 pm, AND 5:30 pm-8:30 pm, Family Tree Maker Tour (Special Events), Family Tree Maker Ambassador, Mark Olsen, will be hat the Good Shepherd Center in Seattle to demonstrate the new features of FTM 2024.Monday, April 29, 2024, 10:00 am-11:30 am, 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.

Monday, May 1, 2024, 6:30 pm-7:30 pm, Pacific Northwest Interest Group (Virtual) (Special Interest Groups), Topics this month: 1. Short history of Oregon Territory, 2. Oregon and Washington State Archives, 3. Oregon and Washington State Libraries.

Register on the SGS website.

Saturday, March 23, 2024, 1:00 pm-3:00 pm, DNA Workshop SIG, Message SGSDNASIG@gmail.com to join.Monday, May 6, 2024, 10:00 am-11:30 am, 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.

Lisa Oberg Named One of WSGS’s Outstanding Volunteers in 2023

Mar12 by Roxanne Lowe

Since 2003, the Washington State Genealogical Society has recognized over 600 outstanding volunteers and teams, nominated by their local society or genealogical organization for their service and dedication. These volunteers are the backbone of their local society, giving their time and expertise, to the organization and the field of genealogy. In the coming months, you will be introduced to each of the 2023 award recipients and learn why they received the 2023 WSGS Outstanding Volunteer and Team Award.

Today we’re introducing Lisa Oberg of Shoreline, Washington, who was nominated by the Seattle Genealogical Society (SGS).

Lisa, a 14-year member of SGS, is currently co-chair of the SGS100 Committee, which is responsible for planning, organizing, and executing SGS’s year-long celebration of the 100th anniversary of its founding. She conceived the idea that became the SGS100 Writer’s C(r)amp, a three-day writer’s retreat on San Juan Island, during which she provided consultations based on her professional expertise as well as light meals for the attendees. The event was such a success that SGS is considering making it an annual program.

Prior to the COVID-19 disruption of group meetings, Lisa led many SGS-sponsored cemetery tours such as a trip to the Seattle Civil War Cemetery, where she had members of the group research some of the soldiers interred there. She has also helped with many of the less glamorous SGS jobs, serving several times on the Elections Committee, helping with the creation and early testing of SGS’s internet-based ballot system.

For more information on the WSGS Outstanding Volunteer Award program, visit the Recognition page of the WSGS website or contact Info@wasgs.org. Please type “Volunteer Award” in the subject line.

Seattle Genealogical Society March News

Mar3 by Charles Hansen

Yan Ming / Unsplash
SGS MEMBER PUBLISHED IN IRISH ROOTS MAGAZINE

Susan McKee is sharing her knowledge with the readers of the Irish Roots magazine. McKee, the leader of SGS’s Irish Special Interest Group, breaks down Irish naming conventions in an article in the spring edition of the publication.

“Researching ancestors in Ireland in the nineteenth century,” she writes, “has a reputation for being difficult.”

In the article, McKee breaks down the challenges and demonstrates through a case study how to push through those challenges. This is the first of a four-part series which will run in each of Irish Root’s quarterly issues this year.

McKee is thrilled with the deal. She described Irish Roots as “a magazine that I have dreamed of writing for these last seven years,” and reflected on how much she has learned and grown as a writer.

“Publishing these articles also adds umph to my motivation as I continue working on my portfolio. I continue to embrace the idea of creating ‘ugly drafts”’ and then spending my time on the editing. I am confident this mindset will get me to the completion of my portfolio.”

Researchers everywhere are sure to reap the benefits of McKee’s insights.

The digital issue of the magazine has just been released, with the print edition hitting U.S. shelves in the next couple of weeks. SGS SEEKS VOLUNTEERS FOR IRISH FEST

Can you help out at Irish Fest? SGS is sponsoring a booth at the Irish Festival being held at the Seattle Center Armory the weekend of March 16-17, from noon until 6 p.m. on Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday. This year, our booth will be located adjacent to the Irish Heritage Club at the main south entrance to the Armory. If you are interested in staffing our booth for a 2-hr or 3-hr period, please contact James Ryan at janglinjehu@yahoo.com.

IRISH WEEK KICKS OFF MARCH 9

Celebrate Irish Week 2024 with the Irish Heritage Club of Seattle.

Events begin March 9th and continue through March 17th. They include a film festival, a St. Patrick’s Pirates Landing at South Lake Union Park, a downtown parade and so much more. All of this leading up to a weekend festival at the Seattle Center on March 16 and 17.

Learn more at the Irish Heritage Club and Seattle Center websites.

SGS SECOND SATURDAY’S DIVES INTO
WOMENS HISTORY MONTH

Do you want to learn more about your female ancestors? Genealogist Janice Lovelace will share how special collections at libraries and archives can shine a light on the lives of women through artifacts such as diaries, letters, manuscripts, and photographic material generated by women. Join the presentation Saturday, March 9, from 1:00 p.m.-2:30 p.m., in person at the SGS library or at home. RSVP to attend in person RSVP to attend via livestream from home

GET TO KNOW THE CANDIDATES
AT SGS’S MEMBERSHIP MEETING

The following SGS members have volunteered to be candidates for SGS Board or director positions for the year running from June 2024 through May 2025:

President: Kathy Weber
Vice President: Lisa Oberg
Secretary: Cybelle O’Brien
Treasurer: Betsey Cotter
Education Director: Cecellia Rogers
Library Director: Kathi M.

There will be an SGS Membership Meeting on 9 March starting at 12:30PM, just prior to Second Saturday, at which the candidates will be introduced, and the attending members will have the opportunity to propose additional candidates for any position. After that meeting, any new candidates will be vetted to make sure they are eligible to run, after which the slate is final. Ballots will go out at the end of March (via email or via mail to those with no email address), and voting will run through the end of April.
ACCESS FAMILYSEARCH LOCKED RECORDS
AT THE SGS LIBRARY

When searching the FamilySearch catalog, you may come across images you are unable to access. But not to worry, you can access many of these locked records at the SGS Library.

To tell if the image may be available at the SGS library, click on the locked record on FamilySearch. The pop up message will explain how to access it. If the message says it can be accessed at “a FamilySearch affiliate library,” the image may be available at the SGS library.

Come to the library or call ahead to confirm if the record will, in fact, be unlocked when at the SGS Library. Our the desk volunteers can assist by phone.

If the pop up says the document image may be accessed at “a FamilySearch affiliate library,” contact the SGS Library. The record may be available at the library.FINDMYPAST SUBSCRIPTION UPDATE

In my recent e-letter to the membership I neglected to note that our subscription to Findmypast allowing access to FMP on the computers in the SGS Library is for three months only (March, April, May). If we see a lot of usage during these three months the SGS Board will consider getting a longer-term subscription. So, if you want to use Findmypast via SGS’s subscription you should get to it right away!

Jim Secan
President, SGS

SAVE THE DATE“Empowering Genealogists with Artificial Intelligence” with Steve Little (Virtual)
Utah Genealogical Association
Tuesday March 5, 2024, 5:00 pm-6:00 pm

This presentation will explain AI, the new consumer ChatGPT program, and the benefits and limitations of using AI and ChatGPT for genealogy. Register today for this free webinar.

Winter Virtual Classes
Fiske Genealogical Library
Wednesdays 10:00 am-noon

Join the Fiske’s free virtual classes.

March 6: “19th-Century Women Settlers Confront the Far West,” with Janice C. Lovelace
March 13: “French-Canadian Records: Beyond Initial Resources,” with Judy Nimer Muhn

For further information see the Fiske website.

Registration opens for IGHR 2024
Georgia Genealogical Society
Saturday March 9, 2024, 6:00 am

Register for the Institute of Genealogy and Historical Research 2023 Virtual Institute. Classes are scheduled to take place July 21-26, 2024. Registration remains open until July 1st, but some classes fill very quickly. Find more information on courses, instructors, and registration.

Family Tree Maker SIG
Eastside Genealogical Society
March 15, 2023, 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.

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 am – 3:00 pm ** 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, March 2, 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, March 3, 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, March 4, 2024, 10:00 am-11:30 am, 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.

Saturday, March 9, 2024, 12:30 am-1:00 pm, General Membership Meeting (Virtual or at the SGS library), Update on SGS activities and slate of board candidates for upcoming election. The meeting will be followed by a Second Saturday presentation by Janice Lovelace. (See below). To view at the library, register here. To view from home online register here.

Saturday, Mar. 9, 2024, 1:00 am-2:30 pm, Second Saturday: Women in Special Collections (Virtual or at the SGS library), Celebrate Women’s History Month with “Special Collection Repositories: Finding Women’s Stories and Voices,” presented by Janice C. Lovelace: To view at the library, register here. To view from home online register here.

Monday, March 11, 2024, 10:00 am-11:30 am, 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.

Monday, March 11, 2024, 1:00 pm-3:00 pm, 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, March 11, 2024, 6:00 pm-7:30 pm, Write It Up! SIG (Virtual), Join this group to share and discuss writing projects, resources, and ideas. To join or learn more, contact Alaine Keisling at keisling@gmail.com. Notice the new meeting time.

Tuesday, March 12, 2024, 10:00 am-11:00 am, 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, March 13, 2023, 7:00 pm-9:00 pm, MAC Computer SIG, Co-chaired by Lisa Marker and Diane Hettrick. Jointly sponsored by SGS and Fiske. Meetings address topics and resources for Macintosh (Apple) computers and the Reunion genealogy software program. Meetings are on the second Wednesday of alternating months. 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,

March 16, 2024, 1:00 pm-3:00 pm, German SIG (Virtual), “My People on the Road: Switzerland to the Pfalz to Russia to America.” Allyn Brosz will follow one family who migrated to multiple German-speaking areas and he’ll talk about the various sources he used to piece together his family’s history. Register on the SGS website.

Monday, March 19, 2024, 10:00 am-11:30 am, 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.

Tuesday, March 19, 2024, 1:00 pm-3:00 pm, “Pass It On” Writers’ Group (Social Interest 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, March 23, 2024, 10:00 am-noon, Irish SIG (Virtual), with Susan McKee. See the SGS website Calendar of Events for further information. Note the date change, this month only.

Saturday, March 23, 2024, 1:00 pm-3:00 pm, DNA SIG, Come to the first DNA SIG meeting of 2024 to meet its new facilitator, Michelle Carroll. This is your chance to introduce yourself to Michelle and tell her about your interests. NEW TIME, this month only. Voice your opinion on some potential topics. Message SGSDNASIG@gmail.com to join.Monday, March 25, 2024, 10:00 am-11:30 am, 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.

Tuesday, March 26, 2024, 10:00 am-11:00 am, 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, April 1, 2024, 10:00 am-11:30 am, 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.Saturday, April 6, 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

Our mailing address is:

Seattle Genealogical Society

4649 Sunnyside Ave N, Suite 302

Seattle, WA98103-6955

Deb Klein Named One of WSGS’s Outstanding Volunteers in 2023

Feb4 by Roxanne Lowe

Today we’re introducing Deb Klein of Kirkland, Washington, who was nominated by the Seattle Genealogical Society (SGS).

Debra “Deb” joined the SGS in June 2015 and became editor of eNews!, the SGS newsletter, later that year. She has never missed a beat, ensuring that an SGS eNews! has been published and emailed to more than 1,000 people on the 15th day and the last day of every month these last eight years.

During the long COVID-19 shutdown, the newsletter was a vital connection between SGS leadership and the society’s members. Deb has regularly prepared and written articles and “Tip[s] of the Week” and made sure SGS events were promoted even when no one sent her any content ahead of time. She has just retired from this position, and everyone in SGS will miss her.

For more information on the WSGS Outstanding Volunteer Award program, visit the Recognition page of the WSGS website or contact Info@wasgs.org. Please type “Volunteer Award” in the subject line.

Seattle Genealogical Society Tip of the Day New Content in Fold3

Feb3 by Charles Hansen

TIP OF THE WEEK –
NEW CONTENT ON FOLD3 During the Civil War, many benevolent and philanthropic groups ran homes where disabled soldiers could live and receive care on a short-term basis. In 1865, Congress approved the National Asylum for Disabled Volunteer Soldiers. Later, the name was changed to the National Home for Disabled Volunteer Soldiers.

Fold3 recently added records for soldiers who resided in these homes covering 1866-1938. The collection contains records for twelve National Homes where disabled soldiers and sailors could live following the Civil War.

In addition to Fold3, Ancestry.com, Newspapers.com (full access), American Ancestors and Historygeo.com are available on the library’s computers. SGS is also a FamilySearch affiliate library which allows access to some locked records when logged on to the library’s Wi-Fi.

February 1, 2024

SGS eNews! comes out the first of every month. contact eNews!

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Seattle Genealogical Society February News

Feb3 by Charles Hansen

Markus Spiske / Unsplash

Evidence Analysis

JOIN US AT THE SGS LIBRARY
FOR SECOND SATURDAY WORKSHOP

Debbie
Wilson Smyth

Come down to the SGS Library as we learn more about effective evidence analysis methods. Debbie Wilson Smyth’s live presentation will be shared on the big screen at the library. It is a great opportunity to discuss what we learn together — and checkout something you’ve been meaning to get from the Library while you are here.

Debbie Wilson Smyth holds a Certificate in Genealogical Research from Boston University. She is past-president of the Suncoast Genealogy Society and a member of the Association of Professional Genealogists.
RSVP to attend in person RSVP to attend via livestream from home

AMANDALEI BENNETT, FRONT DESK COORDINATOR, NAMED 2024 VOLUNTEER OF WINTER QUARTER

“Wow–how very nice,” was Amandalei Bennett’s reaction to the news that she has been selected by the SGS Board as this quarters Top Volunteer.

“Amandalei has made the transition from outstanding SGS Secretary to an equally outstanding Front Desk Coordinator,” observed SGS President Jim Secan. “She makes sure we have a reliable person sitting at the Library’s front desk and takes that worry off both the Library Director and the President.”

Amandalei
Bennett Bennett isn’t sure what year she joined, but she had been attending events and classes, including Cary Bright’s DNA Special Interest Group. Then one January during that SIG she noticed that she could sign up for a 15-month membership and has been with SGS ever since.

When asked how long she has been volunteering, she replied: “My volunteering started fairly early by helping clean the library, rearrange books and price books for sale. I also helped at the seminars. But, my volunteering escalated when Reilly Kidd and Linda Fitzgerald, both roped me into more serious volunteering, first as a Desk Volunteer and then as the Nominating Committee Chair. I’ve been Board Secretary, election committee chair, and helped Jean Roth at Irish Day and the Highland Days. Now I’m the Library’s Desk Volunteers Coordinator, trying to fill Elizabeth’s very capable shoes.”

Sheyna Watkins, an active member and SGS eNews editor recalled getting to know Bennett through the SGS Write It Up Special Interest Group. “Amandalei’s contributions, not just to the group but to the activities of SGS in general show the depth of her knowledge and her enthusiasm for our mission. She is always engaged, faithful and thoughtful.”

What Bennett enjoys about volunteering is meeting other members and patrons — all who are equally passionate as she is about genealogy.

Bennett attends many of the events and seminars put on by SGS. These include some downtown at the Library, Volunteer Appreciation Days, last year’s Ice Cream Social and the recent Smith Family Day Open House. Bennett especially noted SGS’s 100th year celebration at Dunn Gardens: “an exceptional event from the gardens to the food to the lecture.”

When asked how she became interested in family history research Bennett said she got into genealogy determined to find out if her dad was related to Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. “Since his middle name was Wadsworth, as was his mother’s. How hard can it be?”

This lead Bennett on a much longer search then she initially thought.

“Longfellow had six kids but none of them had kids, so I had to go to the National Archives during the limited time they were open on Saturdays, groping around in the dark, trying to read the microfiche there. Ten years later, I finally found out we were indeed related to Longfellow through his mother, Zilpha Wadsworth (sheese — I should have figured).”

More discoveries followed. With the Longfellow connection confirmed, Bennett was “off to the races” as she described it. Longfellow was already proven to be related to the Mayflower members, Priscilla Mullins and John Alden (he authored ‘The Courtship of Myles Standish’). And just like that Bennett had confirmed she had Mayflower ancestors.

“Most of my ancestors moved from Cape Cod to Maine and never left, so I’m heavy into New England and Colonial research. I’m lucky there are so many resources, since I’m fairly lazy about researching, but I am addicted, since I’ve found quite a number of famous ancestors. After all, if you have one Mayflower relative, you’ve probably got a fair number!”

When not focusing on genealogy, Bennett enjoys gardening, reading, traveling and art, giving thanks to her dad who was an artist, an educator and wildflower enthusiast. SGS ELECTIONS DRAW NEAR

SGS elections are coming up in April. So far the following slate of SGS members have volunteered to run for SGS officer and director positions:

President: Kathy Weber
Vice President: Lisa Oberg
Secretary: Cybele O’Brien
Treasurer: Betsey Cotter
Education Director: Cecellia Rogers
Library Director: Kathi McGinnis

At this time there is only one name per position. If you would like to volunteer to run for any of these positions, or if you know of someone who you think would be a good candidate, please contact either Jim Secan or Kathy Weber.

SAVE THE DATEOlympia Genealogical Society Seminar: “Immigration & Naturalization” by Rich Venezia (Virtual)
Saturday, February 3, 9:00 am-3:00 pm

Emerald Isle Express: Researching Irish Ancestors
Discovering Your Immigrant’s Origins: Exhausting Every Resource
Ship Manifests: An In-Depth Look
Naturalization Know-How: The Laws and Records of U.S. Citizenship

More information on the OGS site.Eastside Genealogy Society “Voting Records: the Best
Kept Genealogical Secret” presented by Pam Vestal
Thursday February 8, 2024, 7:00 pm

Looking for a date of birth or death? The date and court of naturalization? Where your ancestor disappeared to, or where he came from? His political outlook? Even what kind of house he lived in? Voting records may have the answer. More information available on the group’s page.Please sign up at least two days prior to the event.

Jewish Genealogical Society of Washington State,
usually 2nd Monday meetings
usually 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm Pacific Time

JGSWS meets on the second Monday of each month, from Sept-June. Doors open at 6:30 pm unless noted otherwise. The next meeting is Feb. 12, 2024, “Help! I Got My DNA Results and I’m Confused, Part 2: Next Steps for 2024,” presented by Gil Bardige. For more information see http://www.jgsws.org/meetings.php

GRIP Registration for 2024 Opens
Tuesday, February 20

This year the Genealogical Research Institute of Pittsburgh (GRIP) offers two sessions of classes: June 23-28, 2024, on Zoom and July 14-19, 2024, in-person. Download a list of the 2024 courses.

SGS Second Saturdays: Women in Special Collections
Saturday March 9, 2024, 1:00 pm-2:30 pm
Zoom and in person at the SGS library

What can you find in special collections at libraries and archives? Learn more about the lives of your women ancestors by digging into special collections of diaries, letters, manuscripts, and photographic material generated by women. To view at the library, register here. To view from home online register here.

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 am – 3:00 pm ** 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, Feb. 3, 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, Feb. 4, 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, Feb. 8, 2024, 10:00 am-11:30 am, 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.

Saturday, Feb. 10, 2024, 1:00 am-2:30 pm, Second Saturday: Evidence Analysis (Virtual or at the SGS library), Effective evidence analysis requires analyzing not only the source, but also the information it contains and the evidence it provides. Join Debbie Wilson Smyth as she offers an in-depth look into the evidence analysis process.: To view at the library, register here. To view from home online register here.

Monday, Feb. 12, 2024, 10:00 am-11:30 am, 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.

Monday, Feb. 12, 2024, 1:00 pm-3:00 pm, 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, Feb. 12, 2024, 7:00 pm-8:30 pm, Write It Up! SIG (Virtual), Join this group to share and discuss writing projects, resources, and ideas. To join or learn more, contact Alaine Keisling at keisling@gmail.com

Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2024, 10:00 am-11:00 am, 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. 17, 2024, 10:00 am-12:00 pm, Irish SIG (Virtual), with Susan McKee. See the SGS website Calendar of Events for further information.

Saturday, Feb. 17, 2024, 1:00 pm-3:00 pm, German SIG (Virtual), Bring your favorite German research resource to share with the group. Carolyn Schott is the facilitator. Get the new Zoom link. Register on the SGS website.

Monday, Feb. 19, 2024, 10:00 am-11:30 am, 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.

Tuesday, Feb. 20, 2024, 1:00 pm-3:00 pm, “Pass It On” Writers’ Group (Social Interest 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, Feb. 26, 2024, 10:00 am-11:30 am, 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.

Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2024, 10:00 am-11:00 am, 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, Mar. 2, 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, Mar. 3, 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.

Saturday, Mar. 9, 2024, 1:00 am-2:30 pm, Second Saturday: Women in Special Collections (Virtual or at the SGS library), Celebrate Women’s History Month with “Special Collection Repositories: Finding Women’s Stories and Voices,” presented by Janice C. Lovelace: To view at the library, register here. To view from home online register here.

February 1, 2024

SGS eNews! comes out the first of every month. contact eNews!

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Seattle Genealogical Society Beginning Genealogy Classes

Jan22 by Charles Hansen

REGISTRATION CLOSES JAN. 30th!

Make a fresh start on your family history work Learn how to research your tree the right way. The Seattle Genealogical Society is offering a beginning genealogy class that will set you up for success. You will learn how to evaluate evidence, where to find records and how to gain insights with DNA.

Start your journey on a foundation of good habits and best practices. Whether you are just starting out, or want to reboot your research, this class will give you the tools you need.

The class runs four weeks: Thursdays, February 1–29, 1:00 – 2:30 pm (online). There is an optional in-person fifth week that will include a library tour and one-on-one research assistance. Register Today!
image credits:
background: Ivan Rohovchenko and Dan Cristian Padure on Unsplash
inset photos: Library of Congress

Watch the Calendar of Events for more programs from SGS!
Click here to make a $5.00 donation for a program you enjoyed or plan to attend.

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Our mailing address is:
Seattle Genealogical Society
4649 Sunnyside Ave N, Suite 302
Seattle, WA 98103-6955

Seattle Genealogical Society Tip of the Week Civil War Regiment Research Tip

Jan2 by Charles Hansen

TIP OF THE WEEK –
FIND ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT
AN ANCESTOR’S CIVIL WAR REGIMENT Do a national search in newspapers for the name of an American ancestor’s Civil War regiment. Letters from other soldiers in the regiment were often printed by their various hometown papers. Coverage of what the regiments were doing is often surprisingly detailed, if a bit profuse in the descriptions of their heroics. This can give you a greater picture of what your ancestors’ experiences in the war may have been like. Remember to compare them against other sources.

Washington State Genealogical Society Blog

Tag Archives: Seattle Genealogical Society