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!
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 personRSVP 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:
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!
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.
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.
CLOSE OUT THE HOLIDAY SEASON THIS SATURDAY WITH THIS DELECTABLE SEND OFF
Come celebrate Twelfth Night, the New Year and something many of us will (likely) RELATE to National Smith Day. We’ll be starting at 1 p.m. this Saturday at the Seattle Genealogical Society Library (Suite 302 of the Good Shepherd Center, 649 Sunnyside Ave N, Seattle WA).
Bring cookies to share, we’ll drink warm beverages and talk about our favorite topics: family history, genealogy, and our SMITH ancestors.
Contact Melanie at volunteers@seagensoc.org to help or bring cookies, tea, hot chocolate, cider to share.
images courtesy Library of Congress
DAR TO BE THE FOCUS AS SECOND SATURDAY RETURNS TO IN-PERSON AT THE SGS LIBRARY
Learn about the Daughters of the American Revolution’s more than 130 years tradition of historic preservation, education and patriotism.
Paula Furick, former regent of Redmond DAR chapter, will speak at the Seattle Genealogical Library 1 p.m., Saturday, January 13. She will share a little about the work of this organization and how genealogists can use its resources and contribute to its mission.
Patrons can attend the event in person, or view from home via Zoom. Please register in advance so accommodations can be provided.
Do you want to document your family tree using best practices and efficiency? Sign up today for SGS’s new class for beginners. This 4-week virtual class, with an optional 5th week, will cover the basics to help you get started. The first class is 1:00-2:30 pm, February 1 and runs every Thursday that month. Deadline to register is January 30. Get more information about the class on the SGS website. COME SEE HOW SGS’S DIGITAL HOLDING CAN HELP YOUR RESEARCH
During 2023 volunteers in the library have continued organizing and digitizing materials donated to SGS over the years. The digital holdings include family research related material and various materials compiled by SGS volunteers. Included in the compilations are newspaper clippings, abstracts of vital records and obituaries appearing in early Seattle newspapers and cemetery surveys. Although some of the digitized materials may be accessed on the SGS website, the vast majority are only available on one of the library’s patron computers. Throughout 2024, we will add more of these digitized materials to the patron computers. GOODBYE TO SGS’S CENTENNIAL YEAR
2023 is in the history books and the next 100 years of SGS has begun. Look back at some highlights of the year that was.
Over the weekend of April 20-23, SGS’s Writers’ C(r)amp brought together ten family historians for a weekend of a recording family stories, good food and great conversation.
Left: The 1920s-themed Ice Cream Social brought SGS members out to Meridian Playground, August 5, for treats. From left are Sheyna Watkins, Jim Secan, Christine Schomaker, and Amandalei Bennett dressed in the costume of the era. Right: SGS President Jim Secan speaks at the 100th Birthday celebration, October 20.
The Keynote speaker Knute Berger speaks at SGS’s Birthday celebration at Dunn Gardens on October 20. Berger talked about the mission of preserving the history of the Northwest.
100 YEARS AGO: 16 DEC. 1923
Some things never change. One hundred years ago, ferries were in the news in the Seattle Daily Times. On December 16, 1923, the headline was “FERRY CONTRACTS LET, TWO FAST SOUND VESSELS TO BE REMODELED.
The article went on to explain that two high-class ferry boats, the Seattle and the Sioux were to be “Widened and Lengthened for Automobiles Carriage.” They were headed to the Todd Shipyard for two months of work. The steamship Seattle was to be used on the Seattle Bremerton run while the steamship Sioux would be operated on the Port Angeles to Victoria route. Total cost was more than $250,00. The contract for the Seattle was awarded to the Navy Yard Route and the contract for the Sioux was awarded to the Puget Sound Navigation Company. Both corporations were owned by the same interests.
“FERRY CONTRACTS LET, TWO FAST SOUND VESSELS TO BE REMODELED.”, Seattle Daily Times, 16 December 1923, P. 23, Col. 1.
* Thanks for celebrating this centennial year with us!
SAVE THE DATE
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 Jan. 8, 2024, “We Are Not Strangers,” presented by Josh Tuininga. For more information see http://www.jgsws.org/meetings.php
Eastside Genealogy Society Italian SIG Saturday January 20, 2024, 10:00 am-12:00 pm (special time, this month only)
This month’s topic: Hands-on Italian Genealogy and Dual Citizenship: Digging Roots on the Ground in Italy presented by Allesandro Bovino (Bella Italia Genealogy). More information available on the group’s page.
Olympia 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
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.
SGS CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Good Shepherd Center, Suite 302 4649 Sunnyside Ave N Seattle, WA 98103 206 522-8658
Hours : 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, Jan. 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.comSaturday, Jan. 6, 2024, 1:00 am-3:00 pm, Holiday Open House (Special Events), Bring Cookies to share to the SGS Library as well as a Smith ancestor (if you have one) to note National Smith Day.
Monday, Jan. 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, Jan. 8, 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, Jan. 8, 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.comTuesday, Jan. 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.
Wednesday, Jan. 10, 2024, 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, Jan. 13, 2024, 1:00 am-2:30 pm, Second Saturday: DAR (Virtual or at the SGS library), Paula Furick will be speaking at the SGS Library about this linage organization: To view at the library, register here. To view from home online register here.Sunday, Jan. 14 2024, 1:00 am-3:00 pm, Scandinavian Interest Group (Virtual), “What does it mean to have Scandinavian DNA?” hosts Karen Knudson and Kathi M. Share information and discuss Scandinavian ancestral research.
Monday, Jan. 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, Jan. 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.
Saturday, Jan. 20, 2024, 10:00 am-12:00 pm, Irish SIG (Virtual), with Susan McKee. See the SGS website Calendar of Events for further information.
Saturday, Jan. 20, 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, Jan. 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, Jan. 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.
Monday, Jan. 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.
Tuesday, Jan. 30, 2024, 11:00 pm,Registration Closes for Beginning Genealogy Class, class with run every Thursday 1:00-2:30 pm beginning February 1.
Tuesday, Feb. 1, 2024, 1:00-2:30 pm, Beginning Genealogy Class, class with run every Thursday 1:00-2:30 PST beginning February 1.
Saturday, 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.comSunday, Jan. 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.
January 1, 2024
SGS eNews! comes out the first of every month. contact eNews!
TIP OF THE WEEK – CREATE UNIQUE FAMILY GIFTS FROM FREE PRINTABLES
Need an inexpensive, but personal gift idea? The Library of Congress has dozens of blank and adaptable antique family record sheets. The images are in the public domain. You can print them off on good paper, paste in photos and create a memorable gift for each family member. Search for “family record” on the Library of Congress website. Here are a couple examples.
Word of the passing of Bernadette Laqueur was received recently. She died earlier this year at the age of 72.
Laqueur was born May 24, 1950, in San Francisco, to Gert and Mary Alice Murphy. She grew up near Washington, D.C. and graduated from the University of Indiana. She worked in Los Angeles in legal administration before moving with her family to Seattle in 1989. She was an active voice in community, political, conservation and education work. In addition to her passion for genealogy, Laqueur enjoyed skiing, kayaking and playing the piano.
Laqueur joined the Seattle Genealogical Society in 2011 and actively participated in the society’s programs and special interest groups. A regular donor, she also volunteered in the SGS library. In 2020, Laqueur stepped up to serve as a trustee for the SGS library and did so until her health failed. She died Jan. 21, 2023. Survivors include husband Paul Herstein, and sons Andrew and Richard. She is buried at Lake View Cemetery on Capital Hill in Seattle.
WHERE’S PERSI?
The Periodical Source Index (PERSI) is the premier subject index for genealogy and local history periodical articles. Although PERSI has had a few different homes over the years the index is now available through the Allen County Public Library’s (ACPL) website. Seattle Public Library owns many of the indexed periodicals. Articles can also be requested from ACPL. The SGS catalog also includes a link to the website.
THANKS TO FLIER VOLUNTEERS!
Thank you to all those who volunteered to locate living relatives of the fliers of the first circumnavigation of the world. Each flier has been matched with a volunteer and the search is on.
IT’S THE GIVING SEASON As 2023 wraps up and we reflect on our centennial year, we also want to look forward to the future. Please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to support the work of the Seattle Genealogical Society and Library.
Your support helps us keep membership dues low and allows us to serve the our community in more meaningful ways.
The celebratory news on 11 November 1923, was “MERCER ISLAND CELEBRATES OPENING OF BRIDGE, Residents See Dreams and Plans of 45 Years Realized”. The headlines further explained “New Structure 1,200 fee Long Reaches from Barnabee Point to Enatai on Eastern Shore of Lake Washington.”
Barnabee Point is on the east side of Mercer Island with Enatai located on the eastern shore of Lake Washington between Newport and Bellevue. The bridge gave Mercer Island its first land communication with Seattle and the rest of the mainland. The article touted the fact that it allowed one to now drive from Mercer Island to Seattle via Renton. The celebration included a 20 piece band of the Boys Parental School of Mercer Island. The article also noted that a bridge on the western side of Mercer Island to Seattle is a possibility in the future but would cost hundreds of thousands of dollars.
— “MERCER ISLAND CELEBRATES OPENING OF BRIDGE, Residents See Dreams and Plans of 45 YearsRealized”, The Seattle Daily Times, 11 Nov. 1923, p. 14, col 3.
* Thanks for celebrating this centennial year with us!
SAVE THE DATE
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 Dec. 11, 2023, “‘Illegitimacy’ in the Jewish Communities of Galicia,” presented by Janette Silverman. For more information see http://www.jgsws.org/meetings.php
Free webinars from American Ancestors by NEHGS Events are all noon to 1:00 pm Pacific Time
• “Applying to Revolutionary War Lineage Societies,” Dec. 7, 2023, Join Vice President of Research and Library Services Lindsay Fulton for a step-by-step look at applying to Revolutionary War lineage societies. Register in advance.
• “Family History Roundtable: Getting Family Involved in Your Research,” Dec. 12, 2023, Finding ways to get our relatives interested in family history is almost as much of a challenge as the research itself! Join us for this engaging panel discussion with our genealogists as they discuss their tips for getting family involved in your research. Register in advance.
• “What’s New at American Ancestors,” Dec. 14, 2023, Stay up to date with what’s new at American Ancestors with this webinar series! Register in advance.
SGS CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Good Shepherd Center, Suite 302 4649 Sunnyside Ave N Seattle, WA 98103 206 522-8658
Hours : Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday ** 10:00 am – 3:00 pm **
Masks are recommended inside the Good Shepherd Center. 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, Dec. 2, 2023, 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, Dec. 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.
Monday, Dec. 4, 2023, 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, Dec. 9, 2022, 1:00 am-2:30 pm, Second Saturday: City Directories (Virtual or at the SGS library), Learn how to leverage city directors in your research: To view at the library, register here. To view from home online register here.
Monday, Dec. 11, 2023, 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, Dec. 11, 2023, 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, Dec. 11, 2023, 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.comTuesday, Dec. 12, 2023, 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, Dec. 16 2023, 10:00 am-12:00 pm, Irish SIG (Virtual), with Susan McKee. See the SGS website Calendar of Events for further information.
Saturday, Dec. 16, 2023, 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, Dec. 18, 2023, 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, Dec. 19, 2023, 1:00 pm-3:00 pm, Family History 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.Tuesday, Dec. 26, 2023, 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, Jan. 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.comSunday, Jan. 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.
Wednesday, Jan. 10, 2024, 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.
December 1, 2023
SGS eNews! comes out the first of every month. contact eNews!
SGS 2023 Fall Seminar Death and Taxes: Records to Enhance Your Research Friday-Saturday, November 10-11 and Saturday, November 18, 2023 online with Judy Russell, CG®, CGL℠, Annette Burke Lyttle, Lisa Gorrell, CG®, Nicole Dyer, and Gregory Gardner, MD, MACP Nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes. – Benjamin Franklin For More Information and to Register Click Here Please join us for our Fall Seminar, “Death and Taxes,” an exploration of lesser-known record sources to enhance your genealogy research. Five programs by noted experts, presented online via Zoom over three days. All presentations will be recorded and available for viewing by paid registrants for about a month following the seminar. 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.
TIP OF THE WEEK – LEGALESE GOT YOU DOWN? ASK AI TO HELP Use AI to help you understand legal language in older document. If you are getting confused by the complex language of a legal document ask Chat GBT to help. Ask the AI to “summarize the following text” and type the text of the document and paste it into the chat GBT. This can’t account for specific legal rules of the past, but it should at least help you understand what the document actually says.
Get ready to learn about some lesser-known record sources. SGS’s Fall Seminar will provide you with the information you need to make some exciting discoveries in your family tree. Our 3-Day conference kicks off Friday evening, Nov. 10, with sessions continuing the next day and the following Saturday, Nov. 18.
“Polls, Personalty and Property – Making Sense of Tax Lists”
Somebody had to pay government’s bills, and they did it through the law by imposing taxes on polls, personal property and real property. The records of those taxes offer some of the best clues available to our ancestors, their families and their neighborhoods.
SATURDAY MORNING, NOVEMBER 11 (9AM)
“Obituaries and Other Death Information in Online Newspapers”
Obituaries can be a bonanza for genealogical information and family stories, but other death information can also be found in newspapers. Learn how to find your ancestor’s death information in online newspaper archives, both U. S. and international.
“Probate Records: More Than Just Wills”
Will records are a great genealogical source but not all estates involve wills and estates without a will often have more genealogical information than those with wills. This session will discuss both testate (has a will) and intestate (without a will) estates and how you can use them to further your genealogical research.
SATURDAY AFTERNOON, NOVEMBER 18 (1 PM)
Nicole Dyer
“Tax Records Tell the Story: Cluster and Neighborhood Research”
Learn how tax records can help locate individuals, identify neighborhood groupings, and separate individuals from others of the same name. (A case study)
“Digging into Death Certification Data to Uncover Family History and Family Health Information Treasures: A Physician’s Perspective”
We will discuss the fascinating history of recording death and then explore those death records in the US that contain a cause of death such as mortality schedules, mortality registries, and death certification all from a physician’s perspective. We will discuss some pearls and pitfalls along the way and how to access these useful records. Finally we will discuss diseases to be on the watch for during your family history journey and how to use family health information to develop a family history portrait and actually calculate your risk of certain illnesses.
Don’t miss out. Register today.
LISA WHITE: 2023 VOLUNTEER OF FALL QUARTER
Lisa White, out-going Publication Chair has been selected SGS Volunteer of the Quarter.
SGS president Jim Secan was pleased to share this news. “Lisa White was appointed Director of Publications by the SGS Board of Directors in May 2021 after she volunteered to take this open position. Lisa was a new SGS member, and had sent an email to then-Director-of-Volunteers Ceil Rogers asking if there was anything she could do to help her new organization. She decided on the Publications job, and has been the SGS Director of Publications ever since.” Unfortunately for SGS, Lisa has stepped down from her director position, but is not done volunteering.
Lisa White
“It was fun working with the board making decisions for the benefit of our organization and membership,” Lisa said upon learning of the award.
Lisa has accepted the position as SGS Journal Editor. She is working now on the layout for the new edition coming out soon. “My career before becoming self-employed was graphic arts and printing so this is right up my alley.”
Over the years she attended many virtual seminars and other events, and explained, “I always learn so much from them.” Along with many other members of SGS, Lisa attended the 100th Anniversary celebration at Dunn Gardens where local celebrity, Knute Berger faced a full house of SGS Members and other guests. “It was fantastic and so nice to see so many members in person!”
Lisa has personal goals for next year, including concentrating on her Certification portfolio. “I attended CDG in 2022 and gained insight into the process as well as the confidence to proceed. I highly recommend attending and I am thinking I may go through it again. I also have some transcription projects in the works.
“My favorite question for the volunteer is: What are your genealogical interests and research areas? Do you have a fascinating discovery to share? Or a brick wall story?
“My ancestry is from Colonial America, England, Ireland, Wales, France, Germany. I was working on Mayflower lineage with another family member and to his consternation I proved we were not Mayflower descendants on that line! Although through that research I found we have Quaker ancestors which was exciting”
When Lisa is not helping SGS or deep diving into her ancestral roots, she is thinking about her retirement. She and her husband will end their business in less than two years, and begin traveling to National Parks and Civil War locations where her husband has Union ancestors. After that, they will visit Europe and travel to ancestral places in Ireland and Germany.
Lisa also enjoys reading and is working on reading all of the books on the BBC’s Top 100 Books You Need to Read. “I am embarrassed to say I forgot I had already read War and Peace and was almost finished with reading it again when I realized. My “rule” is I must finish every book I start whether I like it or not!”
As a volunteer, Lisa has approached her volunteer positions similarly, with good intentions and longevity in service.
CONGRATULATIONS and Thank you Lisa for all you have contributed to SGS.
THANKS TO OUR SGS100 VOLUNTEERS!
The 100th celebratory year is coming to an end. There are so many people to thank for making it a success. We will miss some, so please just let one of us know your name and we will include you in the master list. Those to thank include:
January, Second Saturday: Ceil Rogers
February, SGS Journal, our history: Lisa White, Kathy Weber, Crhistine Schomaker, Cary Bright, Laura Sandridge, Carol Mercer, Karen Portzer, Lisa Oberg, alaine Keisling
April, Writer’s C(r)amp: Melanie Moser, Siri Nelson, Caitlyn Oiye-Coon, Kathy Ciskowski, Heather Certmenia, Christine Schomaker, Kathy Weber and Ceil Rogers
September, Family History Writing Contest: *Caitlyn Oiye-Coon, *Debra Lambo, *Lisa White, *Ron Chan, *Gary Robbins; Bonnie LaDoe, Pam Anderson, Chery Kinnick, Janet Colberg, Francis Russell, Ron Hill, Jenny Irwin, Paula Merrick, Emily Moore, Roberta Nesseth, Karen Portzer, Sheyna Watkins (* marks winners); reviewers: Janice Lovelace, Woods Fairbanks, Anne Marie Maquire, Allison Bourne
October, SGS birthday cake for building; everyone who came
October, SGS Dunn Garden Event: Kathy Weber, Jim Secan,
November, SGS Journal, FHWC winners: Lisa White and all the winners of the SGS100 FHWC.
on-going, 100 years ago, newspaper clipping in eNews!: Siri Nelson; publicity: Alanna Stanton; logo art: Carole Jones; SGS100 Store: Julia Marconi
As you can see, we had a special event almost every month of our celebratory year. while we had our hand in almost all activities, without all of you helping it would not have happened.
And, an additional shout out to the Board members who gave us great latitude and to all who kept the doors open while we overlaid the activities on top of those that we normally conduct.
Your co-chairs, Lisa Oberg and Jill Morelli
HAVE SOMETHING TO SCAN? SGS LIBRARY HAS WHAT YOU NEED
SGS member Maggi Murphy stopped in to use the patron scanning station for an old family album. She had no idea this album existed until a connection was made to a step-cousin. She is trying to identify some of the family members in the photos. Are you in possession of an album that deserves scanning? Stop in and do it at the SGS Library.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR SET UP AND HOSTING MEETINGS
Volunteers are needed to help operate tech equipment during meetings, seminars and other events. Setting up the SGS laptop, projector and Zoom for hybrid meetings are among the requests. Additional help troubleshooting with in-person or online participants and speakers may be needed.
Volunteers should have some working knowledge of connecting devises or computers to a projector and using Zoom interface.
100 YEARS AGO: 12 OCT 1923
On 12 October 1923, the front page news, in all caps, was “AIR PASSENGER SERVICE TO BE STARTED HERE”. The article went on to say that Seattle was selected as the junction for Alaska Airways Company and that the company had “let contracts for the erection of hangars, machine shops and an air depot on Lake Union at Westlake Avenue, near Highland Drive.” “Service will be between Seattle and Tacoma, Seattle and Everett, and Seattle and Victoria, B.C.”
— “AIR PASSENGER SERVICE TO BE STARTED HERE”, Seattle Post-Intelligencer, 12 Oct 1923, p1, col 2.
* Watch each eNews! issue for “100 years ago”, our new anecdotal series. We will be running it for the duration of 2023, our centennial year.
SAVE THE DATE
Fiske Genealogical Library Classes (Free!), Wednesdays in November 10:00 pm – 11:59 am Pacific Time
Join the Fiske Genealogical Library as they continue their Fall virtual classes. All classes are Wednesdays, 10 am to noon, unless otherwise noted on their schedule.
November 8: What’s New in Genetic Genealogy — Karin Borgerson November 15: Using Tables and Timelines to Break Through ‘Brick Walls’ — Janet Camarata
“What’s Online at the National Archives” Eastside Genealogical Society November 9, 2023, 6:30 pm
The presenter, Marisa Louie Lee, is a freelance researcher and workshop speaker who specializes in federal government records and Asian American. Learn more about the event at the website: Eastside Genealogical Society.
Family Tree Maker SIG Eastside Genealogical Society November 17, 2023, 10:30 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.
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 Nov. 13, 2023, “Using Social Media for Genealogic Research: The Good, the Bad, and the Exceedingly Strange” presented by Robin Meltzer. For more information see http://www.jgsws.org/meetings.php
“Every Family has a Story … What’s Yours”? November 4, 11:30 am to 12:30 pm Pacific Time
The Lindsborg Old Mill & Swedish Heritage Museum will be hosting this virtual event to learn the basic research progress. Limited to 100 attendees. The event is free for museum members and $10 for non-members. Register in advance.
“Julefest: A Nordic Christmas Celebration”, National Nordic Heritage Museum, 2655 NW Market St, Seattle, WA 98107 Sat-Sun, November 18-29 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Modeled after a traditional outdoor Christmas market, expect all the traditional Nordic holiday goodies. Ticket price for non-members includes entry to the museum. Julefest is no charge for museum members. https://nordicmuseum.org/events/julefest
SGS CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Good Shepherd Center, Suite 302 4649 Sunnyside Ave N Seattle, WA 98103 206 522-8658
Please call ahead to make sure our library will be open. We are short on front desk volunteers.
Hours : Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday ** 10:00 am – 3:00 pm **
Masks are recommended inside the Good Shepherd Center. Due to COVID the events listed below continue to be virtual, online via Zoom. 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.
NOTICE: SGS has imposed more security on our Zoom meetings. Some meetings will begin with a waiting room. The host must take action to let people into each meeting. The host will try to open the waiting room about 10 minutes ahead of time. Please be patient.
All times listed are Pacific Time unless otherwise noted Saturday, Nov 4, 2022, 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, Nov 5, 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, Nov 6, 2023, 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.
Wednesday, Nov 8, 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.
Friday, Nov 10, 2023, 5:00 pm-6:30 pm, and Saturday, Nov 11, 2023, 9:00 am-12:00 pm, Death and Taxes (Fall Seminar), see additional details about the event in our feature story above.
Monday, Nov 13, 2023, 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, Nov 13, 2023, 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, Nov 13, 2023, 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, Nov 14, 2023, 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, Nov 18, 2023, 10:00 am-12:00 pm, Irish SIG (Virtual), with Susan McKee. See the SGS website Calendar of Events for further information. New Zoom link started in July.
Saturday, Nov 18, 2023, 1:00 pm-4:00 pm, Death and Taxes (Fall Seminar), see additional details about the event in our feature story above.
Saturday, Nov 19, 2023, 10:00 am-12:00 pm, German SIG (Virtual), Focus will be on Pussian research.
If you’ve done research in Prussia, please come with your knowledge and experiences for our group discussion!. Carolyn Schott is the facilitator. Get the new Zoom link. Register on the SGS website. RESCHEDULED: Day and time for November ONLY.Sunday, Nov 19, 2023, 1:00 pm-2:30 pm, Virtual Sundays: Something Old, Something New, Topic to be announced. Please visit the SGS website to register in advance for this event.
Monday, Nov 20, 2023, 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, Nov 21, 2023, 10:00 am-12:00 pm, Family History 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, Nov 27, 2023, 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, Nov 28, 2023, 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, Dec 2, 2022, 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
Monday, Dec 4, 2023, 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.
November 1, 2023
SGS eNews! comes out the first of every month. contact eNews!
You are free to copy articles to any non-commercial web site or message board or printed publication you wish. Don’t bother to ask permission, just do it.
