Stillaquamish Valley Genealogical Society

Monthly Business Meeting & Presentation

Writing Family History Book Using A.I.

Tuesday, January 13th

1:00 pm

SVGS Library

6111 188 PL NE, Arlington, WA

Our speaker at the library this month will be SVGS society member, Teresa Townsell. This event will be in person only. Everyone is welcome to attend this free presentation.

Teresa’s topic: Writing A Family History Book Using A.I.

Have you ever wanted to use A.I. in your genealogy work? Is it finally time to turn your family research into a book your relatives can enjoy? Are you waiting until your research feels “finished” — or unsure where to begin with A.I.? This process meets you where you are.

All you need is an Ancestry.com account and basic WORD skills (or the Apple equivalent).

Teresa will teach you a simple, step-by-step process to write your family history book using ChatGBT, an A.I. tool that’s easier, faster, and a lot more fun than you might imagine!

You will leave with:

• A clear understanding of how to collaborate with A.I. for writing and organizing your history.
• A structure and outline you can use as a template for your own family history book.
• Confidence to start writing and finally share your story as soon as you get home!

There will be a short break with refreshments after the presentation followed by our monthly business meeting.

DIG – DNA Special Interest Group

Also join us at the SVGS library on the third Thursday of the month from 1-3pmfor our DNA Special Interest Group (DIG). This group works together to develop a better understanding of DNA techniques and strategies for finding relatives, discuss and review new DNA developments and tools and help members with their research problems.

All DNA skill levels are welcome to attend.

If you have a specific DNA topic you would like to discuss or have any other suggestions for this group, please sen an email info@stillygen.org

Also, if you have not joined us yet and would like to receive emails in the future for the DIG group, please send an email to info@stillygen.org and request to be added to the DIG email list.

New England Interest Group

The SVGS New England Interest Group (includes New York and Pennsylvania) that meets at the SVGS Library on the first Tuesday of the month is now hybrid!

If you have not joined us yet and would like to receive emails in the future for this group or wish to attend via Zoom, please send an email to info@stillygen.org and request to be added to the New England Interest Group email list and receive monthly Zoom invitations.

For more information visit stillygen.org

Stillaquamish Valley Genealogical Society

Monthly Business Meeting & Presentation

Creating a Virtual Cemetery

Tuesday, November 11th

1:00 pm

SVGS Library

6111 188 PL NE, Arlington, WA

Our speaker at the library this month will be SVGS society member, Kathie Webber. This event will be in person only. Everyone is welcome to attend this free presentation

Kathie’s topic: Creating A Virtual Cemetery One Kathie’s favorite things about studying her family history has been learning where her ancestors have been buried. Twenty years ago she discovered an online tool called findagrave.com. This website and the accompanying app have enabled her to organize and expand her cemetery research. She will share with everyone the many things she has taken advantage of using Find a Grave, as well as other options that are available.

Bio: 

I’ve been doing genealogy for over 40 years. I’ve researched in Washington State, Massachusetts, California, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Ireland. My favorite notable ways to research include visiting cemeteries, family history centers, online research, Facebook groups, and travel.

There will be a short break with refreshments after the presentation followed by our monthly business meeting.

DIG – DNA Special Interest Group

Also join us at the SVGS library on the third Thursday of the month from 1-3pmfor our DNA Special Interest Group (DIG). This group works together to develop a better understanding of DNA techniques and strategies for finding relatives, discuss and review new DNA developments and tools and help members with their research problems.

All DNA skill levels are welcome to attend.

If you have a specific DNA topic you would like to discuss or have any other suggestions for this group, please sen an email info@stillygen.org

Also, if you have not joined us yet and would like to receive emails in the future for the DIG group, please send an email to info@stillygen.org and request to be added to the DIG email list.

New England Interest Group

The SVGS New England Interest Group (includes New York and Pennsylvania) that meets at the SVGS Library on the first Tuesday of the month is now hybrid!

If you have not joined us yet and would like to receive emails in the future for this group or wish to attend via Zoom, please send an email to info@stillygen.org and request to be added to the New England Interest Group email list and receive monthly Zoom invitations.

For more information visit stillygen.org

Stillaquamish Valley Genealogical Society

Monthly Business Meeting & Presentation

Overview of Lineage Societies: An Introduction to Heritage and Membership

Tuesday, October 14th

1:00 pm

SVGS Library

6111 188 PL NE, Arlington, WA

Our speaker at the library this month will be SVGS society member, LeAnne Koliha. This event will be in person only. Everyone is welcome to attend this free presentation.

Our business meeting will follow the presentation at 2 PM.

LeAnne’s topic: Overview of Lineage Societies: An Introduction to Heritage and Membership

Lineage societies are organizations whose membership is based on proving descent from a particular ancestor or group connected by bloodline, historical event, or notable accomplishment. These societies, often rooted in historical preservation and civic engagement, function as both social organizations and custodians of heritage. Members typically trace their lineage through careful genealogical research, sometimes requiring documentation that connects them to figures from wars, colonial settlements, or other significant moments in history. Examples include the Daughters of the American Revolution, the Mayflower Society, and the Sons of Confederate Veterans. Through meetings, commemorations, and educational outreach, lineage societies foster a sense of identity and continuity, helping members honor their ancestors while promoting historical awareness and community service in the present day.

Bio: 

LeAnne has been an active member of SVGS since 2022. She serves as the Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) Washington State Committee Chair for E Pluribus Unum, focusing on uncovering and honoring forgotten patriots, including African Americans, Native Americans, and women. As a member of the DAR State Review team, she assists in reviewing applications and supplementals before their submission to the National level. LeAnne is also the secretary of the Lady Stirling Chapter in Bothell. As a member of the National Society of American Colonists (NSDAC), she serves as chapter registrar for the Pilchuck chapter, where she guides potential members through the application process and supports their research by helping locate necessary documentation.

DIG – DNA Special Interest Group

Also join us at the SVGS library on the third Thursday of the month from 1-3pmfor our DNA Special Interest Group (DIG). This group works together to develop a better understanding of DNA techniques and strategies for finding relatives, discuss and review new DNA developments and tools and help members with their research problems.

All DNA skill levels are welcome to attend.

If you have a specific DNA topic you would like to discuss or have any other suggestions for this group, please sen an email info@stillygen.org

Also, if you have not joined us yet and would like to receive emails in the future for the DIG group, please send an email to info@stillygen.org and request to be added to the DIG email list.

New England Interest Group

The SVGS New England Interest Group (includes New York and Pennsylvania) that meets at the SVGS Library on the first Tuesday of the month is now hybrid!

If you have not joined us yet and would like to receive emails in the future for this group or wish to attend via Zoom, please send an email to info@stillygen.org and request to be added to the New England Interest Group email list and receive monthly Zoom invitations.

For more information visit stillygen.org

Stillaquamish Valley Genealogical Society

October is Family History Month!

The Stillaguamish Valley Genealogical Society would like to help you preserve your family history.

Bring your family documents, old photos, negatives, slides, tapes, and home movies to the SVGS Library to get them digitized absolutely FREE!

Bring your own USB drive for documents, photos, negatives and slides and a CD for tapes and movies. (There will be thumb drives and CDs available for purchase at the library.)

We will be open all month long on Tuesday, Thursdays, and Saturdays from 10am to 4 pm.

It takes longer to digitize tapes and movies, so we request an appointment to make sure the equipment is available when you arrive. Please email info@stillygen.org Attention: LeAnne.

The SVGS Library is located at 6111 188th PL NE, Arlington. East of the airport and north of the Boys & Girls Club. Look for the Genealogy Library signs.

Hint: Digital copies of family memories make thoughtful gifts for the holidays!

For more information visit our website stillygen.org

Stillaguamish Valley Genealogical Society

Monthly Meeting & Presentation – Jesse’s Daughter and the Daughters of the American Revolution

Tuesday, September 9th

1:00 pm

SVGS Library

6111 188 PL NE, Arlington, WA

You are invited to this free presentation at the SVGS library. Everyone is welcome! 

Susan Maza will be our guest speaker.

Susan’s topic: Jesse’s Daughter and the Daughters of the American Revolution 

Step back in time into Colonial America with a costumed character who can tell stories of the United States in its infancy.

We live in a country that many from around the world desire to experience. Our ancestors sacrificed much to make our country what it is today. American history is rich in events that sculpted our destiny.

• How Did We Finance the Revolutionary War Without a Government?
• Women & Their Role in the Revolutionary War
• What Was Life Like at the Time of the Revolution?

Bio: Susan Maza is a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution. Her desire to educate herself has led to offering her program to those in the educational field. 

There will be a short break with refreshments. The monthly meeting will follow at 2pm.

New England Interest Group – 1^st Tuesday of the Month

The SVGS New England Interest Group (includes New York and Pennsylvania) meets at the SVGS Library on the first Tuesday of the month at 10am. This is a hybrid group. You may attend in person at our library or join via Zoom.

If you have not joined us yet and would like to receive emails in the future for this group or wish to attend via Zoom, please send an email to info@stillygen.org and request to be added to the New England Interest Group email list and receive monthly

Zoom invitations.

DIG – DNA Special Interest Group – 3^rd Thursday of the Month

Also join us at the SVGS library from 1-3pm on the 3^rd Thursday of the month for the DNA Special Interest Group (DIG). This group works together to develop a better understanding of DNA techniques and strategies for finding relatives, discuss and review new DNA developments and tools and help members with their research problems.

All DNA skill levels are welcome to attend.

If you have a specific DNA topic you would like to discuss or have any other suggestions for this group, please send an email info@stillygen.org

Also, if you have not joined us yet and would like to receive emails in the future for the DIG group, please send an email to info@stillygen.org and request to be added to the DIG email list.

For more information on future events visit www.stillygen.org

Stillaquamish Valley Genealogical Society

Monthly Meeting & Presentation – Sons of the American Revolution and Revolutionary Era Genealogy

Tuesday, August 12th

1:00 pm

SVGS Library

6111 188 PL NE, Arlington, WA

You are invited to this free presentation at the SVGS library. Everyone is welcome! 

Jason Rice, a SVGS member, will be giving an in person only presentation at our library. Our business meeting will follow the presentation.

Jason’s Presentation: Sons of the American Revolution and Revolutionary Era Genealogy

Founded in 1889, the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) stands as a prominent non-profit, non-political organization deeply committed to the core tenets of volunteerism, a comprehensive understanding of American History, and fervent Patriotism. Since its inception, the SAR has cultivated an extensive international network, currently encompassing over 550 chapters strategically located throughout North America and Europe. The SAR boasts a substantial membership exceeding 35,000 individuals, each of whom has meticulously documented their lineage, demonstrating a direct ancestral connection to the Patriots who played pivotal roles in the American Revolutionary War. These esteemed ancestors encompass a wide spectrum of individuals who either rendered military service in the Continental Army or Navy, or who actively contributed to the cause of American independence through various forms of support, including political activism, financial contributions, and the provision of essential resources. The SAR serves as a vital link to the nation’s foundational history, fostering a profound appreciation for the sacrifices and ideals of the Revolutionary War era among its members and the broader public. Through its diverse programs and initiatives, the organization actively promotes historical education, civic engagement, and a deep-seated sense of national pride.

Bio: 

Jason attended Southern Illinois University and the University of Illinois – Springfield, studying Political Science, Philosophy, and Public Administration. He began genealogical research in 2013. He is a member of the Southern Illinois Genealogical society, Pope County, Illinois Historical Society, Jackson County (Illinois) Historical Society, SVGS, and currently the Chapter Genealogist
of Supplemental Applications for the Ranger Chapter, Sons of the American Revolution.

There will be a short break with refreshments. The monthly meeting will follow at 2pm.

New England Interest Group – 1^st Tuesday of the Month

The SVGS New England Interest Group (includes New York and Pennsylvania) meets at the SVGS Library on the first Tuesday of the month at 10am. This is a hybrid group. You may attend in person at our library or join via Zoom.

If you have not joined us yet and would like to receive emails in the future for this group or wish to attend via Zoom, please send an email to info@stillygen.org and request to be added to the New England Interest Group email list and receive monthly

Zoom invitations.

DIG – DNA Special Interest Group – 3^rd Thursday of the Month

Also join us at the SVGS library from 1-3pm on the 3^rd Thursday of the month for the DNA Special Interest Group (DIG). This group works together to develop a better understanding of DNA techniques and strategies for finding relatives, discuss and review new DNA developments and tools and help members with their research problems.

All DNA skill levels are welcome to attend.

If you have a specific DNA topic you would like to discuss or have any other suggestions for this group, please send an email info@stillygen.org

Also, if you have not joined us yet and would like to receive emails in the future for the DIG group, please send an email to info@stillygen.org and request to be added to the DIG email list.

For more information visit www.stillygen.org

Presentation: Meet the Signers of the Declaration of Independence

(The presentation and meeting this month will not be available via Zoom but we would love to see you in person at the library.)

Tuesday, June 10th

1:00 pm – SVGS Library 6111 188 PL NE, Arlington, WA

Sally Buckingham will be speaking. 

Our business meeting and board meeting will follow the presentation at 2 PM. 

Sally’s topic: Meet the Signers of the Declaration of Independence

Join us as Sally brings the signers of the Declaration of Independence to life. In an 1811 letter to Adams, Benjamin Rush recounted the signing in stark fashion, describing it as a scene of “pensive and awful silence”. Rush said the delegates were called up, one after another, and then filed forward somberly to subscribe what each thought was their ensuing death warrant. Fifty-six men from each of the original 13 colonies signed the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. Nine of the signers were immigrants, two were brothers and two were cousins. One was an orphan. The average age of a signer was 45. Seventeen fought in the Revolution. The British captured five of them. Eleven signers had their homes and property destroyed.

Bio: 

Sally Buckingham has been involved as a research genealogist since 2008 and been a serious student of American History since 1996. She is a member of several linage societies National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), National Society Daughters of the American Colonists (DAC), Daughters of the War of 1812, and Colonial Dames XVII. She has served as an officer in each of these groups.

Visit our website at www.stillygen.org

Stillaguamish Valley Genealogical Society

Annual Meeting, Election of Officers, Potluck and Silent Auction

Tuesday, May 13th

SVGS Library

6111 188 PL NE

Arlington, WA

Potluck starts at Noon!

The Stillaguamish Valley Genealogical Society will hold a Potluck prior to the Annual Meeting and Election of Officers. All friends of the society are welcome!

Bring your favorite dish (maybe an old family recipe) to share.

If possible, we would like you to bring an item based on the following parameters.

If your last name begins with:        Please bring:

A to I                                                 Main Course

J to R                                                 Dessert

S to Z                                                 Salad/Side Dish

Another option that anyone may choose is to bring Appetizers or Beverages.

Immediately following the Potluck, at approximately 1pm the SVGS Annual Meeting will begin. Members, please stay and vote on the upcoming 2025-2026 budget and the Election of Officers.

The following slate of candidates has been presented for election:

President-Ruth Caesar

Vice President of the Library-Leslie Bock

Secretary-LeAnne Koliha

Silent Auction

This year we are having a silent auction as to help supplement our operating budget. We have a great selection of items that have been donated by members and the community to bid on. Don’t forget to bring your checkbook!

Monthly Meeting & Presentation – Ancestry Pro Tools – Are They Worth It?

Tuesday, April 8, 2025

1:00 pm

SVGS Library

6111 188 PL NE, Arlington, WA

You are invited to this free presentation at the SVGS library.

Everyone is welcome! 

Sue McNeil, SVGS member will be back! This time Sue will be giving an an overview of her experience using the new Ancestry Pro Tools. The presentation will be in person only at our library. Our business meeting will follow the presentation.

Sue’s topic: Ancestry Pro Tools – Are They Worth It?

Ancestry Pro Tools is a new monthly add-on subscription. Are they worth paying an additional $10 per month? That depends on your needs and goals. There are tools for a tree checker, smart filters, reports, DNA matches and more.

There will be a short break with refreshments. The monthly meeting will followat 2pm.

New England Interest Group – 1^st Tuesday of the Month

The SVGS New England Interest Group (includes New York and Pennsylvania) meets at the SVGS Library on the first Tuesday of the month at 10am. This is a hybrid group. You may attend in person at our library or join via Zoom.

If you have not joined us yet and would like to receive emails in the future for this group or wish to attend via Zoom, please send an email to info@stillygen.org and request to be added to the New England Interest Group email list and receive monthly

Zoom invitations.

DIG – DNA Special Interest Group – 3^rd Thursday of the Month

Also join us at the SVGS library from 1-3pm on the 3^rd Thursday of the month for the DNA Special Interest Group (DIG). This group works together to develop a better understanding of DNA techniques and strategies for finding relatives, discuss and review new DNA developments and tools and help members with their research problems.

All DNA skill levels are welcome to attend.

If you have a specific DNA topic you would like to discuss or have any other suggestions for this group, please send an email info@stillygen.org

Also, if you have not joined us yet and would like to receive emails in the future for the DIG group, please send an email to info@stillygen.org and request to be added to the DIG email list.

For more information visit www.stillygen.org