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.
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.
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 personRSVP 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:
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.
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
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 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.
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!
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