Let’s Ask: What Was A Barn Dance?

by Donna Phillips

Ever been to a real barn dance? Likely not….. at least not like the ones our ancestors enjoyed. 

In an old magazine, quoting a 1909 newspaper, I found this description of just what was a real honest-to-goodness barn dance:

“The barn dance is a country cousin to the schottische, and the music must be furnished in convulsive jerks. The man shoots out with his heavy fluke, grabs the girl around the waist and she places her lily white paw on his shoulder near his wishbone. The man then kicks out with his right pedal and his partner with the left. They jump many times like they are dodging snakes, then resume the first position. They then hop, three times on one foot and then on the other, like a fellow that has stumped his toe, and the first position is taken again. The dance commences with a bounce, and the dancers never cease bouncing until the music stops of the fiddle string breaks. At the conclusion of the south house the performers get a broom and sweep up the buttons that have been shaken off during the spasms.”

Wouldn’t we love to watch the 1938 movie “Old Barn Dance?” A horse trader named Gene Autry (Gene Autry) arrives in Grainville with his horses and outfit prepared to put on a barn dance to attract potential horse buyers to an auction. The horse trading business has been affected lately by the increased use of tractors to replace horses for farm work. Radio station owner Sally Dawson (Joan Valerie) approaches Gene and offers him a contract to sing on a program sponsored by Thornton Farming Equipment, the area’s leading manufacturer of tractors. Unconvinced that tractors could ever replace horses, Gene refuses her offer, but is still attracted to her and invites her to his barn dance that night.

Bainbridge Island Genealogical Society New England to the Midwest

by Charles Hansen

Bainbridge Island Genealogical Society

Bridging the Gap: New England to the Midwest, 1780 – 1850

Speaker: D. Joshua Taylor

Friday, February 20, 2026 @ 10amMeeting via Zoom only

*To receive a Zoom link, please register at bigenealogy.org


Migration from New England to the Midwest in the early nineteenth century transformed families and communities. This presentation examines why people moved, how they traveled, and where they settled, using real research examples to illustrate these journeys. We will explore records and research techniques that help bridge the gap between departure and destination.

For more than 20 years, Joshua Taylor has been sharing the incredible connections that can be made through genealogy and family history. An avid genealogist, he is a member of the Association of Professional Genealogists and is past President of the Federation of Genealogical Societies.

Let’s Ask: Why Me?

by Donna Phillips


This darling photo is not me but surely could be. I think I was born with gills behind my ears because I do love to be around water, especially the ocean. 

Why am I spotlighting me today? Because I’m really on a crusade to get all of us over-60 folks to write down your memories. One way to think about this is to image what do you want your great- great grandchildren to know about you??? 

I’ve kept notebooks and a simple journal for 40 years. With one spiral notebook, when my kids were teenagers, I wrote exactly what we did, went and ate every single day that year. Now maybe that drivel won’t pique their beaks but my memories of Big Events surely will.

I tell them WHY I say I was born the Year of the Black Penny. I say WHY I lived in Japan as a five year old. I relate being the wife of a Navy nuclear submariner for eight years. I can tell them my memories of that 1963 day when Kennedy was shot. I can tell them I was with my mother-in-law watching the first men walk on the moon in 1969. I can tell them how my three teens plus one lived in an ash-surrounded cocoon in 1980 during Mt.St.Helens. I certainly will tell them how my sister-in-law called from Kansas City at 5:00am on that fateful 9-11 day (before we were up) to scream “turn on the TV, we’re at war!” 

See how simple writing YOUR stories, YOUR memories can be? Hope I’ve tweaked your beak a bit. Tomorrow I turn 83; how old will you be tomorrow? Isn’t it time you sharing your life’s memories???

Seattle Genealogical Society February 2026

by Charles Hansen
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image of an old map with the words: Lost in Translation  DECIPHERING FOREIGN NAMES, PLACES, AND DOCUMENTS
Second Saturday: Feb. 14, 1:00 p.m.Researching ancestors from another country can be daunting, especially when names, locations, and records appear in an unfamiliar language. This presentation explores practical tools, strategies, and resources to break through these barriers and turn a foreign-language brick wall into a path forward. 
 
Margaret R. Fortier focuses on immigration to New England and dual citizenship with Italy. She specializes in Italian, Portuguese, and French-Canadian research, is fluent in French, and serves on the APG board and the 2021 NERGC Program Committee.  Sign Up Today!NEXT MONTH’S SECOND SATURDAY: “1926 Irish Census.” Presented by Susan McKee. Sign up separately for this event held Mar. 14. Arrive early for the membership meeting at 12:30 p.m. Only one sign up is necessary for both events.
  image of letters courtesy of Ling App / Unsplash
map image courtesy David Rumsey Map CollectionSave the Date: March Membership Meeting, March 14, 12:30 p.m. - 1 p.m., online
Sign UpSigning up here will also get you into the March Second Saturday presentation Write Your Family's Story of Westward Movement


image courtesy of Library of CongressSGS Journal Seeks Writers For Spring IssueThe Seattle Genealogical Society publishes a semiannual journal that is distributed through our significant membership along with fourteen different libraries. Our journal is indexed at PERSI in the Allen County Public Library, providing national recognition for authors. We would love to publish your work in our scholarly publication that documents cross-generational family research with a specific focus on families in the northwest. In anticipation of America 250 our spring theme is Westward Movement, articles should demonstrate the path families took to move westward, not necessarily all the way to the northwest. The deadline for spring article submissions is 1 March 2026. We would love to see your article in print, so submit them to journal@seagensoc.org. Please review our Writing Guidelines for more information. Additional questions can be submitted to publications@seagensoc.org.
 Get a Ticket to Ride: SGS Tour to Washington State History Museum



 LET’S TAKE THE TRAIN TO THE WASHINGTON STATE HISTORY MUSEUMLearn more about Washington history with us. We will visit the Washington State History Museum in Tacoma together. This day trip is on Saturday, Feb. 28, making it a good opportunity to bring family or friends!  

We’ll take the Amtrak train to Tacoma and spend a day immersed in the Washington state history as well as have time to investigate the temporary exhibits.  

Purchase your Amtrak train ticket on the 8:55 a.m. train from Seattle to Tacoma and the 4:45 p.m. train from Tacoma to Seattle. Cost is $12 each way.

From the Tacoma Amtrak station we will walk together 15 minutes to the museum. 

You will purchase your own museum ticket for $17 (with a discount to $14 for seniors, free for their members). This can be done in advance online or at the door.

Let us know you are coming. SGS group registration $10 per person and we’ll be in touch with further details as the day draws near. For anyone who prefers to drive themself, we will have a meet-up spot at 10:30 a.m.. Let us know your preference for a sack lunch picnic or a dining out option.Sign Up for the TourItinerary
Saturday, February 28, 2026
Ride the Amtrak train with the SGS Hosts (reserve your tickets here): 
– From Seattle to Tacoma depart 8:55 a.m.
– From Tacoma to Seattle depart 4:45 p.m.
or Drive to meet up with the SGS Hosts at 10:30 a.m. (directions to museum here)
 train image courtesy of Stephen Mease / Unsplash



 TURN YOUR RESEARCH INTO A BOOKJoin a Hands-On Self-Publishing WorkshopJoin Jill Morelli, CG, CGL, Wednesday, March 25 at 6 p.m. as she shares what she learned self-publishing Journeys of the Forgotten: The Orphans of Hamilton County, Iowa. Morelli will walk through the major steps of the process and discuss practical considerations to help genealogists move from research to a finished book.

Bring a laptop. Morelli more direct attendees in publishing a document. A document will be provided to those who don’t have something to publish. Everyone will publish something!

In person only at the SGS Library. 
Limited to 25 participants
Class Fee: $30 (SGS members $25)

Any questions contact registrar@seagensoc.org. 
 Sign Up for the WorkshopOrganizing for Genealogy class starts February 3
  SLOTS STILL AVAILABLE FOR GET ORGANIZED CLASSSGS’s “Organizing for Genealogy” class still has openings. This course will help
participants create a system of organization or adapt their current system to
meet their specific research needs. The class will be offered over four weeks in
February on Tuesday afternoons (4:00 to 6:00 p.m.).
  Session 1: Organizing Our Self – Our thoughts, actions, time, and space Session 2: Organizing Our System – Paper systems and Digital Systems Session 3: Organizing Our Workflow – Research, Records, and Resources Session 4: Pulling it all together – Developing a tailored organization system
Online via Zoom
Limited to 20 participants
Class Fee: $100 (SGS members $80)Sign Up for the Class  ANNOUNCING 2025 SGS VOLUNTEER OF FALL QUARTER  Melinda McRae Developing a New SGS WebsiteLisa ObergMelinda McRae Melinda McRae is SGS’s Fall 2025 Volunteer of the Quarter for SGS. Melinda is working with a small team to redevelop our SGS website, upgrading the backend and adding functionality. She has spent countless hours for more than six months to bring our website to its next generation!  

Melinda’s background in web development and website maintenance has been a gift to SGS.  She spent the last 19 years of her career at University of Washington, where she worked in at least three departments’ websites: Social Work, Global Health and Nursing. She was a member SGS 1970’s and rejoined again a few years ago. She serves as a volunteer on the committee that advises the Board about the needs in the SGS Library, as a Library Trustee.  She participates in SGS field trips and SIGs.

She grew up in Burien, Washington, the daughter of a mother from Pierce County and a father from Portland, Oregon.  Three of her four grandparents were immigrants.  She traces her ancestry from Scotland, via Canada, and from Germany with some Swiss heritage. She is the mother of daughter who recently relocated to Washington State.  Seasonally, she enjoys flower gardening.  

Melinda is the author of sixteen historical romance novels published by Penguin. Her era of focus is English Regency period–early 1800’s. After she is done building the new website for SGS, she plans to bring her out-of-print novels to Kindle. She also plans to write more. Her genealogy experience helps her research for writing, and she has lectured aspiring authors on using genealogical research techniques to create characters.

What Melinda is most proud of about the new website is that it will be so much easier for both users and the volunteers who maintain it; and new research databases will be available for SGS members online from anywhere.SGS LIBRARY NEWSMore Volunteers Needed for the Drop-In Sessions at SPL Branches Based on the success of the drop-in sessions during the pilot project, the SGS Board and SPL agreed to continue the program through December 2026. Ideally, we would like at least 3 volunteers at each branch – Ballard, Magnolia and Northeast. Many of the people we’ve assisted simply want to know how to get started on their own genealogy.

Others may need help with where and how to find available resources. The 1 ½ hour sessions are held once a month and there is no long-term commitment – just whatever fits your schedule. Please consider signing up for one of the drop-in sessions so that we can continue this successful program. Email splvolunteers@seagensoc.org if you have questions or need additional information on this joint SPL/SGS program.

 What Are The Image Restrictions on FamilySearchHave you ever come across this message when searching FS historical records?

message from FamilySearch that states imaes may be available to view by visiting one of FamilySearch's partner sites or the legal record custodian (fees may apply).

Although the image isn’t available at a FS center or affiliate library, such as SGS, you may still be able to view the image through another website. Regardless of the location, the research wiki has links to the online resources for each location. When one clicks on the Online Resource button, there are links to all the available online resources whether it’s FamilySearch, Ancestry, MyHeritage, or some other genealogy website. The list will indicate whether the third-party website is free or requires a subscription. When you click on the link, it will take you to that third-party website. 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 a.m .- 3:00 p.m. **  Always check the SGS Website Calendar of Events for the meeting links, registration, or for last minute updates or changes to the schedule. Be advised you may need to register in advance to join a meeting. Meeting content is for personal genealogy learning and may not be recorded or transcribed.   All times listed are Pacific Time unless otherwise noted 
Sunday, Feb. 1, 2026,  1:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m., 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@seagensoc.org to join. 
Monday, Feb. 2, 2026, 10:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m., Brags & Bricks Social Interest Group (Virtual), Join us for an informal social gathering. Share your recent genealogical successes and challenges, or just come to hang out with other genealogists. See SGS Calendar for more information. NOTE: New Zoom link for January – June.
Monday, Feb. 2, 2026, 7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m., Organizing for Genealogy SIG, Share information and discuss organization tips, techniques, and habits to enhance your genealogical journey. Contact Susan McKee at sgsOrganizingsig@seagensoc.org to join. 
Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026, 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m.,  Pacific Northwest Interest Group (Virtual), Share information and discuss Pacific Northwest genealogical research. Register on the SGS website. NOTE: New Zoom link for the rest of 2026.
Thursday, Feb. 5, 2026, 6:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m., Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Genealogy SIG (Virtual), explore the intersection of artificial intelligence and genealogical research Email SGSAISIG@seagensoc.org. NOTE: New Zoom link for 2026.
Saturday, Feb. 7, 2026, 10:00 a.m.- 12:30 p.m., FamilySearch SIG, Discover the many ways to use the FamilySearch website in your research. Meeting includes instruction and time for Q&A. Email SGSFamilySearchSIG@seagensoc.org to join the mailing list. NOTE: New starting time!

Monday, Feb. 9, 2026, 10:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m., Brags & Bricks Social Interest Group (Virtual), Join us for an informal social gathering. Share your recent genealogical successes and challenges, or just come to hang out with other genealogists. See SGS Calendar for more information.

Monday, Feb. 9, 2026, 1:00 p.m.-2:30 p.m., SGS Board of Directors Meeting (Virtual), All SGS members are welcome to attend. SGS is an all volunteer organization. Please be involved. Members must sign in to website to see Zoom link.

Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2026, 10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m., Tech Tuesday (Virtual), informal consultation time on DNA, genealogy software, or genealogy-related technical issues. All are welcome. No appointment necessary. Bring us your problem; we’ll try to help. NOTE: Zoom link alternates between 2nd and 4th Tuesday.
Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2026, 6:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m., Ancestry Users SIG (Virtual), The Ancestry Users Special Interest Group is for people who use Ancestry.com (and AncestryDNA) to research their family histories. Email SGSAncestrySIG@seagensoc.org. NOTE: New Zoom link for 2026.
Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026, 7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m., Publishing SIG, Participate in writing and publishing the SGS Journal twice a year. Email SGSPubSIG@seagensoc.org. NOTE: New Zoom link for 2026.
Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026, 1:00 p.m-2:30 p.m., Second Saturday, “Lost in Translation: Deciphering Foreign Names, Places, & Documents” Presented by Margaret Fortier. Register here.

Monday, Feb. 16, 2026, 10:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m., Brags & Bricks Social Interest Group (Virtual), Join us for an informal social gathering. Share your recent genealogical successes and challenges, or just come to hang out with other genealogists. See SGS Calendar for more information. NOTE: New Zoom link starting this month.

Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2026, 6:00 p.m.-7:30 p.m., Transcription SIG, Want to strengthen your ability to read, transcribe, and analyze original records? This SIG is ideal for anyone looking to practice, build confidence, and sharpen their research skills in a collaborative setting. The group meets at the SGS Library. Send questions to Betsey Cotter at sgstranscription@seagensoc.org.

Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2026, 7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m., Write It Up! SIG (Virtual), Join this group to share and discuss writing projects, resources, and ideas. To join or learn more, contact Sheyna Watkins at sgsWriteItUpSIG@seagensoc.org. NOTE: New Zoom link starting this month.

Thursday, Feb. 19, 2026, 7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m., SGS Quarterly Program Planning (Virtual), be a part of SGS’s strategic planning effort, collaborate with the leaders of our education programs (e.g., SIGs, field trips, classes, seminars, discussion groups). Register here.

Friday, Feb. 20, 2026, 10:30 p.m.–12:30 p.m. Family Tree Maker SIG, 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.

Saturday, Feb. 21 2026, 10:00 a.m.-noon, Irish SIG (Virtual), with Susan McKee. Share information and discuss Irish ancestral research. View SGS calendar for details on joining this group.

Saturday, Feb. 21 2026, 1:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m, German SIG (Virtual), Share what you know OR get help with problems in your own research. Register on the SGS website.

Monday, Feb. 23, 2026, 10:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m., Brags & Bricks Social Interest Group (Virtual), Join us for an informal social gathering. Share your recent genealogical successes and challenges, or just come to hang out with other genealogists. See SGS Calendar for more information. NOTE: New Zoom link starting this month.

Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2026, 10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m., Tech Tuesday (Virtual), informal consultation time on DNA, genealogy software, or genealogy-related technical issues. All are welcome. No appointment necessary. Bring us your problem; we’ll try to help. NOTE: Zoom link alternates between 2nd and 4th Tuesday.
Thursday, Feb. 26, 2026, 7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m.,Eastern European SIG, Learn about researching family history from the Balkans to the Baltics and in between. For more information email sgseasterneuropesig@seagensoc.org.

Sunday, Mar. 1, 2026,  1:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m., 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@seagensoc.org to join. 
Monday, Mar. 2, 2026, 10:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m., Brags & Bricks Social Interest Group (Virtual), Join us for an informal social gathering. Share your recent genealogical successes and challenges, or just come to hang out with other genealogists. See SGS Calendar for more information. NOTE: New Zoom link for January – June.
Monday, Mar. 2, 2026, 7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m., Organizing for Genealogy SIG, Share information and discuss organization tips, techniques, and habits to enhance your genealogical journey. Contact Susan McKee at sgsOrganizingsig@seagensoc.org to join. 
Wednesday, Mar. 4, 2026, 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m.,  Pacific Northwest Interest Group (Virtual), Share information and discuss Pacific Northwest genealogical research. Register on the SGS website. NOTE: New Zoom link for the rest of 2026.
Thursday, Mar. 5, 2026, 6:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m., Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Genealogy SIG (Virtual), explore the intersection of artificial intelligence and genealogical research Email SGSAISIG@seagensoc.org. NOTE: New Zoom link for 2026.
Saturday, Mar. 7, 2026, 10:00 a.m.- 12:30 p.m., FamilySearch SIG, Discover the many ways to use the FamilySearch website in your research. Meeting includes instruction and time for Q&A. Email SGSFamilySearchSIG@seagensoc.org to join the mailing list. NOTE: New starting time!

Monday, Mar. 9, 2026, 10:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m., Brags & Bricks Social Interest Group (Virtual), Join us for an informal social gathering. Share your recent genealogical successes and challenges, or just come to hang out with other genealogists. See SGS Calendar for more information.

Monday, Mar. 9, 2026, 1:00 p.m.-2:30 p.m., SGS Board of Directors Meeting (Virtual), All SGS members are welcome to attend. SGS is an all volunteer organization. Please be involved. Members must sign in to website to see Zoom link.

Tuesday, Mar. 10, 2026, 10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m., Tech Tuesday (Virtual), informal consultation time on DNA, genealogy software, or genealogy-related technical issues. All are welcome. No appointment necessary. Bring us your problem; we’ll try to help. NOTE: Zoom link alternates between 2nd and 4th Tuesday.
Tuesday, Mar. 10, 2026, 6:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m., Ancestry Users SIG (Virtual), The Ancestry Users Special Interest Group is for people who use Ancestry.com (and AncestryDNA) to research their family histories. Email SGSAncestrySIG@seagensoc.org. NOTE: New Zoom link for 2026.
Wednesday, Mar. 11, 2025, 7:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m., MAC Computer SIG, Jointly sponsored by SGS and Fiske. Meetings address topics and resources for Macintosh (Apple) computers and the Reunion genealogy software program. A link to login will be sent to the MAC SIG email list. If you would like to join, send an email to macusersig@seagensoc.org to be added to the email list. 

Thursday, Mar. 12, 2026, 7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m., Publishing SIG, Participate in writing and publishing the SGS Journal twice a year. Email SGSPubSIG@seagensoc.org. NOTE: New Zoom link for 2026.Saturday, Mar. 14, 2026, 12:30 p.m-1:00 p.m., General Membership Meeting, Update on SGS activities and slate of board candidates for upcoming election. The meeting will be followed by a Second Saturday presentation. (See below.). Register here. Only one registration is needed for both the membership meeting and the Second Saturday presentation.
Saturday, Mar. 14, 2026, 1:00 p.m-2:30 p.m., Second Saturday, “1926 Irish Census.” Presented by Susan McKee. Register here.  OUR NEIGHBORS AND BEYOND    “Finding Females in Naturalization Records, 1790-1952,” with Nancy LoeEastside Genealogical Society
Thursday, Feb. 12, 7:00 p.m. (virtual) (Zoom open at 6:30 p.m.)

Female ancestors — both foreign-born and birthright — gained, lost, or regained citizenship in the United States between 1790 and 1952. US citizenship and attendant rights for women could be fragile, depending on marital status, prevailing laws, social norms, and other shifting factors. Examples of US naturalization and citizenship records, and search strategies for finding these records are featured in this presentation. Learn more and register.GRIP Registration for 2026 Opens
Genealogical Research Institute of Pittsburgh
Tuesday, Feb. 3

This year the GRIP offers two sessions of classes: June 22-26, 2026, on Zoom and July 12-17, 2026, in-person! Learn more and here.“Decoding Your Ancestors: The Tech Edition” with Cyndi Ingle Olympia Genealogical Society
Saturday, Feb. 7, 8:50 a.m. — 2:30 p.m. (virtual)

Four one-hour presentations focused on technology tools for genealogy. Learn more and register.“Family Tree Maker’s New Tools for Collaborative Family History” with Duff WilsonJewish Genealogical Society of Washington State
Monday, Feb. 9, 7:00 p.m. (virtual) (Zoom open at 6:30 p.m.)

Explore how Family Tree Maker 2024—together with its TreeVault® Cloud Services—can become the central hub of a truly collaborative family history experience. You’ll see how to share your tree in ways that are secure, effortless, and engaging, inviting your relatives to participate with you in building your family story. Learn more and register.Lower Columbia Genealogical Society
Various Fridays, 9:45 a.m. (virtual)

February 13: The 1890 Census
Speaker: Sara Cochran

March 13: Your Ancestor’s Occupation: Exploring the 1821 Irish Census.  
Speaker: Steven Morrison

April 10: Jumping the Pond: Connecting Immigrants to Their Homeland.  
Speaker: Mary Kircher Roddy

Learn more and register here.   
RootsTech 2026
Thursday, Mar. 5 – Saturday, Mar. 7 (virtual)

A family history conference. An on-demand learning library. A way to grow closer to the people, places, and stories that matter most. RootsTech is all that and so much more. Join us as we celebrate together the joy of connection. Get more information.

TIPS OF THE WEEK –
BE S.M.A.R.T. ABOUT RESEARCH
 bethsteury@gmail.com | www.bethsteury.com
By Beth Steury
My part of the world is especially dreary in January and February creating the perfect time to delve deeply into all things relating to family history. Truth is, I rarely/never need incentive to peruse old family photos, dive into archived documents and records and memorabilia, OR pore over DNA results. Still, the arrival of a new year encourages me to reflect upon my genealogy agenda for 2026. Because I know that the more intentional the researching/digging/detecting/piecing together of clues, the more effective and successful said researching will be. And intentional pursuits require targets and objectives and strategies. You know, goals.

Whether you’re the “must set goals” type or a soul who flees from the very notion, the flip of the calendar can—if you allow it—create an urge to consider your genealogically-inclined pursuits.

SO, let’s look at how to be genealogically intentional in 2026. Begin with a mental review of 2025. Consider both PURSUITS—the goals you worked toward and activities you engaged in sans goals—and ACCOMPLISHMENTS—goals achieved, tasks completed, mysteries solved. Next, accept that facts are facts. Whether this review reveals an awesome A+ and you’re now doing a happy dance OR you’re staring at a dismal F and hanging your head in shame, it is what it is. Celebrate where appropriate, for sure, but choose not to sweat what didn’t get done. Consider that reflection’s purpose is to inform future progress, NOT to create a pit in which to wallow sorrowfully. Then, acknowledge that only YOU know if targets for 2026 should extend what took place, or failed to take place, in 2025. Maybe, yes. Maybe, no. It’s a different year, one that likely finds you in a different place, either in minor or major ways.
Now, on to the agenda for 2026. The S.M.A.R.T. goal-setting model offers a simple, practical approach for genealogy enthusiasts to strategize effective goals. Even for folks who shy away from the notion of goals. I promise.

SPECIFIC

Generic objectives such as “research more” aren’t specific enough to be effective. But “research Grandpa Mullins parents” directs a specific course of action.

MEASURABLE

Hone the specific goal into something tangible. Such as, challenge yourself to find confirmation of Grandpa Mullins parents’ names, children’s names, birth and marriage dates. OR, record all info you can gather in an hour/afternoon/day of focused online research.

ACHIEVABLE

Think realistic, based on your available time and resources. If an hour of research fits into your schedule while an afternoon would strain your calendar and a day would leave you stressed out about what else wasn’t getting done, then an hour it is.

RELEVANT

What person/question/mystery interests you most? Did Grandma have a husband before Grandpa as has been rumored for decades? What challenges split your maternal relatives when they set out for the Missouri Territory? The thing you most want to know—that’s where you begin in 2026.

TIME-BASED

Time and again it’s been proven that deadlines work. An expressed timeline produces a sense of urgency that encourages structure which boosts focus and . . . voilà! You’re on the road to goal-completion success when your S.M.A.R.T. goals include a timeline.

If you’ve not tested your DNA, consider joining the 50 million people who’ve completed a DNA test. A wealth of information, answers, and potential connections are waiting to be discovered in the details of your DNA results.
 Join SGS Today* to renew your membership: log in on the Members Home page
and click the green renew membership button.

 DONATE TO SGS Your donations represent a significant part of the SGS budget. Your continued generosity helps us increase our financial security and expand our services for everyone. We make it easy for you to contribute appreciated stock from your portfolio. We have a brokerage account established and ready to receive your donation from any firm. For details, write treasurer@seagensoc.org. For questions about our needs and our vision, write president@seagensoc.org. 
  February 1, 2026

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

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Stillaguamish Valley Genealogical Society Using Someone Else’s Genealogy Research

by Charles Hansen

Stillaquamish Valley Genealogical Society

Monthly Business Newsletter Meeting & Presentation

What’s Been Done: Using Someone Else’s Genealogy Research

Tuesday, February 10th

1:00 pm

SVGS Library

6111 188 PL NE, Arlington, WA

This month we will be watching a pre-recorded webinar at the SVGS Library presented by Thomas MacEntee.

Thomas’s topic: What’s Been Done: Using Someone Else’s Research

Many of us as genealogists have inherited research from a relative and we are not always sure whether the content is reliable. What’s the best way to incorporate the research of others into your own research without leading to dead ends, roadblocks and unnecessary detours? Here is a road map on the best way to handle “outside research” and benefit from it as you combine the content with your own research.

Bio: 

Thomas MacEntee is a Baby Boomer guy with a love of punk rock music but also art history who somehow “fell” into the technology industry almost 40 years ago and then left a lucrative IT career to pursue his love of family history and genealogy. Technology and historical research are opposites, but “tech people” like Thomas are needed to guide today’s genealogists through the maze of options so they can deploy the best apps and devices to break down research brick walls. Thomas MacEntee: author, educator, advocate, entrepreneur, and that “genealogy guy” who helps you accomplish your family history goals.

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

South King County Genealogical Society February 2026 Happenings

by Charles Hansen

February 2026 to early March 2026 with South King County Genealogical Society
SKCGS Banner.png

Greetings. 

SKCGS Members will find the playback access code for Robyn Smith’s “Cluster Research: Using Other People to Find Your People” presentation at the end of this email. *If you expected to find the code but did not, your SKCGS Membership has expired. Renew on our website: https://www.skcgs.org/support-skcgs/membership 

We’re searching for leaders to help keep our small but mighty nonprofit running smoothly! The best part? You won’t be doing it alone! You’ll be supported by a dedicated, hands-on board and fantastic volunteers who are ready to help. Email Board@skcgs.org to help.

Stay connected! Get updates on our virtual and in-person events, plus the latest genealogy news and tips, by subscribing (free) to the online group at https://skcgs.groups.io

Skcgs.groups.io is the SKCGS online platform for discussion and information sharing:

  • we communicate and share information with each other
  • other than your email, you are not required to provide personal information
  • you can unsubscribe or change your email format at any time

PROGRAM UPDATES

All meetings are online except the in-person Research Group and Genealogy Help at KCLS Auburn, Federal Way, and Renton Highland library branches. 

Live transcription (captioning) is available during our Zoom meetings by request

Online meeting participants need to register for SKCGS Zoom meetings. Upon registration, Zoom will send a confirmation email with instructions on joining the meeting. 

FEBRUARY TO EARLY MARCH 2026 MEETINGS & EVENTS

All meetings are Pacific Time (PT) zone

Register at https://www.skcgs.org for all meetings unless otherwise stated 

Tuesday, February 3, 6:30–7:30pm PT: SKCGS Board Meeting. Interested Members are invited; write Board@skcgs.org for the zoom link.

Friday, February 6, 12:30–2:30pm PT: German Interest Group (EGS)(Online). Topic: “Swiss Essentials: Locating Church Records & Understanding the Impact of Citizenship” by Charlotte Noelle Champenois, AG®, AGL™. Visitors are welcome. More information at https://gig.eastsidegenealogicalsociety.org/ Registration required: https://tinyurl.com/yfyrt6yw  

Saturday, February 7, 10–11am PT: Family Tree Maker User Group (Online). Topic: Question and Answer for the Family Tree Maker program. Join our free online group: https://skcgs.groups.io/g/FTMUG. 

Monday, February 9,  1–2pm PT: Genetic Genealogy/DNA Interest Group (Online). Topic:  DNA Research Plan: How to Focus, and Choosing Best Matches. See: Selecting DNA Tools for a Research Plan: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s8eOuMnE_yU. Read: https://www.yourdnaguide.com/ydgblog/finding-your-best-dna-matches . This group is for genealogists who use DNA data as part of their research. Join our free email group for meeting notices and discussion: https://skcgs.groups.io/g/Genetic-Genealogy

Wednesday, February 11, 2–3pm PT. WikiTree Users  (Online). Topic: Wikitree browser extensions & Apps; when and how to use them.See: https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:WikiTree_Sourcer_User_Guide (copies profiles, creates source citations) :: https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:WikiTree_Browser_Extension (WikiTree browsing, reading, and editing) :: https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/ Space:WikiTree_BEE#Options (more options) : https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Category:WikiTree_Tools_and_Apps. Wikitree Users create the best collaborative tree on Earth. Join our free online group: https://skcgs.groups.io/g/Wikitree-SIG.

Thursday, February 12, 11am–1pm PT: Genealogy Help with SKCGS at Renton Main Library (In-person) Genealogy questions? SKCGS offers one-on-one help with a volunteer. 100 Mill Avenue S, Renton, WA.

Monday, February 16, 1–2pm PT: Tech Users Group (Online). Topic: Using  GoldieMay for research projects. See “Goldie May as a Newspaper Finding Aid https://youtu.be/FcRWWrth0JM?si=tzRWht2f5ngt831d 45 mins. The Tech Users Group is for sharing knowledge and learning about technology tools, media, apps and websites. Please join our free email group for meeting information and discussion: https://skcgs.groups.io/g/TUG.

Thursday, February 19: Genealogy Help with SKCGS (In-person). Genealogy questions? SKCGS offers one-on-one help with a volunteer.

  11am–1pm PT: Auburn Library, 1102 Auburn Way S, Auburn WA.

  2-4pm PT: Federal Way Main Library, 34200 1st Way S, Federal Way WA.

Friday, February 20, 1–3pm PT: Research Workshop. SKCGS Members only. In-person research at the Kent FamilySearch Center, 12817 SE 256th St, Kent, WA. RSVP in advance to Winona Laird (206-818-7610).

Saturday, February 21, 10–11:15am PT: SKCGS Speaker Series (Online). Doors open at 9:30 for social time; after a brief announcement and introduction, we’ll learn about “Cluster Research: Using Other People to Find Your People.” The presentation will be recorded for review by SKCGS Members; everyone is invited to join the meeting and download the handout, which is Robyn’s work product; do not share it without her permission.

Our ancestors did not live in a vacuum. They lived, worked, socialized, and married amid a larger group of people. Robyn demonstrates how studying this larger group of people often increases our success in breaking through stubborn brick walls and finding our family.

Robyn Smith has been researching her family and the families of others for almost thirty years. She specializes in court and land records, genealogy skill-building, and slavery research. 

A respected speaker in the field, Robyn has taught widely at genealogy conferences, for genealogical societies across the U.S., and for institutions such as the Maryland State Archives, the National Archives and the Smithsonian Institution. She taught at the Genealogical Research Institute of Pittsburgh (GRIP) in 2023 and worked with the Georgetown Memory Project in 2022. She also taught a genealogical workshop for Maryland Public Television. 

Her lectures on Legacy Family Tree Webinars have garnered thousands of views. Robyn writes extensively and has published articles in Family Tree Magazine, and in the peer-reviewed Maryland Genealogical Society Journal and the National Genealogical Society Quarterly Journal. Rooted in her passion for family research, writing and teaching remain the heartbeat of Robyn’s work. For more than fifteen years, she has authored a popular genealogy teaching blog called Reclaiming Kin (www.reclaimingkin.com). Her blog focuses on strengthening genealogical research skills for all genealogists and addressing the unique challenges of researching American slavery. Posts at Reclaiming Kin have been referenced by The Washington Post, The New York Times, Ancestry, and the Library of Virginia among others.

Monday, February 23,1–2pm PT: Genealogy Chat (Online) Meet up and chat about genealogy subjects and topics. We have no agenda; we just like one another!

Tuesday, March 3, 6:30–7:30 pm PT: SKCGS Board Meeting. Interested Members are invited; write Board@skcgs.org for the zoom link.

Friday, March 6, 12:30–2:30pm PT: German Interest Group (EGS)(Online). Topic: “Using Genealogy.net/Compgen.de” by  Fritz Juengling Ph.D., AG®, AGL™. Visitors welcome; https://gig.eastsidegenealogicalsociety.org/. Registration is required:  https://tinyurl.com/mry7k3kn

Saturday, March 7: the usual Family Tree Maker User Group is cancelled this month. Join our free online group: https://skcgs.groups.io/g/FTMUG; ask questions in the group.

Monday, March 9, 1–2 pm PT, Genetic Genealogy/DNA Interest Group (Online). Topic: New Tools for our DNA Research. Rootstech, MyHeritage WGS and more. This group is for genealogists who use DNA data as part of their research. Join the free email group for meeting notices and discussion: https://skcgs.groups.io/g/Genetic-Genealogy

Wednesday, March 11, 2–3 pm PT: WikiTree Users (Online). Topic: How Wikitree Projects can move your research forward. See: https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Help:Projects. Wikitree Users collaborate to create the best collaborative tree on Earth. Join our free online group: https://skcgs.groups.io/g/Wikitree-SIG. 

Thursday, March 12, 11am–1pm: Genealogy Help with SKCGS at Renton Main Library (In-person) Genealogy questions? SKCGS offers one-on-one help with a volunteer. 100 Mill Avenue S, Renton, WA.

*************

SKCGS Speaker Series: Monthly on the third Saturday, 10am. 

  • September 20 2025: Roxanne Lowe “Write Your Own Obituary”
  • October 18 2025: Craig K Gowens “The Border Reivers: The Beginnings of America’s Scotch-Irish”
  • November 15 2025: Mags Gaulden “WikiTree’s DNA Features, With A Splash of mitoYDNA.org”
  • January 17 2026: Mary Kircher Roddy “Putting Your Learning to Work: Getting the Most From an Educational Opportunity”
  • February 21 2026: Robyn N. Smith “Cluster Research: Using Other People to Find Your People“
  • March 21 2026: Winona Laird “Publish Your Story using AI and Kindle Direct Publishing”
  • April 18 2026: Robbie Johnson “Writing for Relatives 101-–From Research to Family History” 
  • May 16 2026 Elizabeth Swanay O’Neal “Research at the library…without leaving home!”
  • June 20 2026:  Steven Morrison Part 1, “Digging Up New Dirt:  Unearthing the Real New England Immigrant” AND Part 2, “Finding, Proving and Publishing”

*************

MEMBERSHIP:  We welcome guests to our meetings and special interest groups, which are free. Naturally we hope that visitors will want to become members. Support like yours helps us to educate and engage with our community to foster interest in family and local history. You can find more information about membership at our website at https://www.skcgs.org/support-skcgs/membership.

You are receiving this email because you have attended a SKCGS meeting and indicated you would like to receive periodic notice of events. If you would like to be removed from our list and stop receiving emails from us, send an email to skcgsfriends+unsubscribe@skcgs.org.

Like – Facebook :: Blog :: Website – SKCGS.org :: Member support – info@skcgs.org

SOUTH KING COUNTY GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY

Heritage Quest Research Library February Happenings 2026

by Charles Hansen

February Happenings 2026 No matter how much you already know about your heritage there is always more you can learn General Membership Meeting Jan 17, 2026
2025 was a successful year at HQRL! Through the combined efforts of our Volunteers and Management Team new outreach events increased community awareness of HQRL, its mission, and extensive holdings. Our membership increased by 135 members bringing our total membership to 302. Our Digitalization Project is moving forward under the guidance of Dale Loseth, who is currently training volunteers to help with digitalizing. Dale is also our Grant Coordinator and has applied for a grant which will expand the digitalization project.
The results of the yearly Board of Trustees election were announced. Congratulations to returning Board members Monty Euston, Mike Bartlett and Lauren Orheim. Angie Burslem was elected to fill the vacant position. Monty Euston is the new Board Chair and Mike Bartlett continues as Board Secretary.
~~~Our members voted overwhelming to increase the membership dues~~~ The new rates will begin April 1, 2026.
ASpecial Thanksto our Management Team who provided the tasty refreshments. UPCOMING EVENTS
Thursday, February 5 The Genealogy Roll-up: Essential Shortcuts Every Genealogist Needs  11:00 am to 12:00 pm Heritage Quest Research Library Classroom (limit of 8) or Zoom Jennifer Patterson Dondero will share her shortcuts for great genealogy success. Register on the website at HQRL STORE or at the library. $20+tax for members $25+tax for non-members A Zoom link will be sent to your email 1-2 days before the class along with any handouts. ************
Wednesday February 18 Management Team Meeting 12 noon – 2 pm Heritage Quest Research Library Classroom or Zoom Members in good standing are welcome to attend ************
Thursday, February 19 Midwest Genealogy Center (MGC)   11:00 am to 12:00 pm Heritage Quest Research Library Classroom (limit of 8) or Zoom The Midwest Genealogy Center is one of the United States’ preeminent resources for family history, providing access to almost three-quarters of a million on-site materials. Register on the website at HQRL STORE or at the library. $20+tax for members $25+tax for non-members A Zoom link will be sent to your email 1-2 days before the class along with any handouts.
Coming Soon!!! Research Sunday March 8, 2026 Heritage Quest Research Library 10 am to 4 pm MANAGEMENT TEAM OPPORTUNITIES  Management Team Secretary Bookstore Manager Newsletter Editor Information Tech (IT) Unique Creative Opportunity HQRL Needs Your Skills: Volunteer Today! The HQRL Management Team is looking for an individual to produce a YouTube video featuring HQRL! We need an experienced, enthusiastic, talented individual to lead on content, presentation, filming, and editing. Have a great idea? Want to showcase your skills? Please reach out to the Management Team to get involved. Let’s do this!!! FEBRUARY BOOKSTORE SPECIALS
Featured this month The National Genealogical Society’s (NGR) Research in the Statesseries. Prices vary, but they’re all 50% off during the month of February!
The key to locating records for your ancestors is knowing what records exist and which repositories hold these records for the geographic area you are researching.
The National Genealogical Society’s Research in the States series typically gives an overview of a state’s history and shifting demographics. These booklets help guide you quickly to the records you need. They also include: A description and location, phone number, and website address of major and lesser-known archives, libraries, societies, and federal repositories
Research resources such as atlases, gazetteers, and maps; business, probate, and court records; colonial enumerations and state and federal censuses; city and county directories; and religious and military records
State specific records such as California’s mission system and movie industry; probate law in Texas under Spanish and Mexican governments; Missouri records created by the Spanish and French governments prior to the Louisiana Purchase; and even various states’ cattle brands
Ethnic resources on European immigrants as well as Native Americans, African Americans, and Hispanic and Asian Americans
You will find the National Genealogical Society (NGS) Research in the States series displayed in our Bookstore on the left wall by the front door.
Heritage Quest Research Library | 2102 East Main Ave Suite 105 | Puyallup, WA 98372 US

Tacoma Pierce County Genealogical Society Monthly Education Meeting February 2026

by Charles Hansen

Tacoma Pierce County Genealogical Society Monthly Educational Meeting
Tuesday, February 10, 2026, starting at 6:00 pm

This month’s presentation: TBD

This month’s presentation: is by Crystal Hicks, Head of Collections for the Washington State Library. Her presentation is:
Bureaucracy to the Rescue: The Hidden Value of State Library Collections.

Bureaucracy rarely gets top billing, but this presentation makes the case for its quiet heroics. “Bureaucracy to the Rescue” explores how the Washington State Library’s unique collections (state publications, reference, and special collections) become indispensable tools in moments of research and discovery. Through real-world examples, the session highlights how careful collecting, description, and preservation of bureaucratic materials support transparency, accountability, genealogy, legal research, and unexpected human stories hiding in plain sight.

This month’s meeting will be Zoom Only until we can find a new physical location to meet in person.

Please download and import the following iCalendar (.ics) files to your calendar system.
Monthly: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/tZIqduGpqjgsHtBNs9zc8CGna6R-KHlcz5so/ics?icsToken=98tyKuGuqToiG9CWth2DRpwAB4j4WevwiHZdgrd_sgy8GSMLQST4N7Rwf5lXHNvK

Join Zoom Meeting
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Meeting ID: 867 1814 3644
Passcode: 630507

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