Washington State Genealogical Society Make AI Your Personal Genealogy Assistant
Author Archives: Charles Hansen
Tacoma Pierce County Genealogical Society Chat September 2026
Tacoma-Pierce County Genealogical Society Genealogy Chat
Tuesday, September 15, 2026, starting at 7:00 PM via Zoom
Please join us and let’s chat!
This is a monthly opportunity to connect with others and talk about anything and everything genealogical. The value of this meeting increases with the participation of each person that attends and contributes to the conversations. This is your chance to celebrate the breaking down of a brick wall in your research or ask questions of others that can help you find records or relatives. Everyone, members, and guests are welcome and encouraged to attend and participate.
Date & Time: Every month on the Third Tue, from 7:00 PM until 8:30 PM Pacific Time
Please download and import the following iCalendar (.ics) files to your calendar system.
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Fiske Genealogical Library Fall 2026 Free Virtual Classes
Here is the list of Fall 2026 Free Virtual Classes at Fiske Genealogical Library
Kenneth V. Peterson
Education Coordinator
Fiske Genealogical Library
Wednesday, September 16
10:00 am to 11:15 am Pacific Time – Fiske Genealogical Library, Seattle (Free Virtual Class)
Presented by Sara Cochran
For links to join the meeting and get class notes, select https://fiskelibrary.org
How much does spelling matter when we’re dealing with historical records? Why are there so many variations, anyway? Have you ever wondered if that record for Abraham Miller is really for your Abram Meuller, or why you can’t find an ancestor in the Springfield marriage records? This presentation takes a deeper look at how relying too much on spelling has the potential to trip up our research.
Sara Cochran is a full-time professional genealogist with over thirty years of research experience. She especially enjoys breaking down brick walls, discovering the stories of black sheep ancestors, and helping individuals preserve their photographic legacy. Sara holds a Boston University Genealogical Research Certificate, a Bachelor’s Degree in Library Science, and is an alum of the ProGen Study Group. She is a member of DAR and other lineage societies, the Association of Professional Genealogists, and the Genealogical Speakers Guild. You can find her online at TheSkeletonWhisperer.com.
Wednesday, September 23
10:00 am to 11:15 am Pacific Time – Fiske Genealogical Library, Seattle (Free Virtual Class)
19th Century America: Cultural Changes and Their Effect on Records
Presented by Sylvia Tracy Doolos
For links to join the meeting and get class notes, select https://fiskelibrary.org
America in the 19th century underwent geographic, cultural, and historical shifts that influenced recordkeeping, especially for women, African Americans, and immigrants. We will explore the century broadly to understand these changes.
Sylvia Tracy Doolos, owner of New Leaf Genealogy, is the President of the Wales, Ireland, Scotland, England Family History Society (WISE-FHS), and Past-President of the Colorado Chapter of the Association of Professional Genealogists, and the International Society for British Genealogy and Family History (ISBGFH).
Wednesday, September 30
10:00 am to 11:15 am Pacific Time – Fiske Genealogical Library, Seattle (Free Virtual Class)
Grandma Nellie’s Scrapbook: Identifying and Interpreting Historic Photographs Presented by Tina Beaird
For links to join the meeting and get class notes, select https://fiskelibrary.org
Many people become heirs to a box of unidentified family photos and have no clue what to do with them. Tina Beaird will offer solutions for identifying these ‘lost’ family members by demonstrating how to use genealogy sources in conjunction with observational techniques.
Tina Beaird, owner of Tamarack Genealogy, is the genealogy & local history librarian at a mid-sized Chicagoland public library. She holds a Masters of Library and Information Science degree with a specialization in Archives/Preservation, and is the First Vice-President of the Illinois State Genealogical Society, and board director for the Oswegoland Heritage Association.
Wednesday, October 7
10:00 am to 11:15 am Pacific Time – Fiske Genealogical Library, Seattle (Free Virtual Class)
The Art of Self-Editing for Genealogists
Presented by Pam Anderson
For links to join the meeting and get class notes, select https://fiskelibrary.org
This presentation focuses on editing genealogical manuscripts. Elizabeth Shown Mills first wrote in Evidence! Citation and Analysis for the Family Historian, 1997, “Effective source citation is an art, not a science. No formula can cover all situations.” The same applies to the skill of self-editing, which must be honed. This presentation begins with assessing our genealogical writing as a whole, progressing to paragraph development and organization, then to sentence structure, and finally to word choice, using Evidence Explained and The Chicago Manual of Style as our guides.
Pam Anderson owns Anderson CoGen in Franklin County, Pennsylvania. She began studying her family history in 2010, went professional in 2014, and obtained her Certification in 2018. Pam mentored ProGen 47 and GenProof 95; and taught self-editing classes for the Applied Genealogy Institute (2023, 2024) and the Association of Professional Genealogists (2024, 2025, 2026). She is a member of the Association of Professional Genealogists, National Genealogical Society (NGS), and genealogical societies of New England, New York, Maryland, New Jersey, and Utah. Pam has written articles for and presented to these and many other local organizations. She received the NGS “2025 Family History Writing Competition” award and “2024 Award of Merit.”
Wednesday, October 14
10:00 am to 11:15 am Pacific Time – Fiske Genealogical Library, Seattle (Free Virtual Class)
Google for Genealogists
Presented by Tina Beaird
For links to join the meeting and get class notes, select https://fiskelibrary.org
Google can be a useful tool for genealogical research. Utilizing services like google maps, google news and google books can make you feel like Indiana Jones. But be wary, google has some traps and pitfalls as well! Tina will discuss ways to get the most out of google so you can find your holy grail. This webinar will not cover specific uses of Google’s AI tool, Gemini.
Tina Beaird, owner of Tamarack Genealogy, is the genealogy & local history librarian at a mid-sized Chicagoland public library. She holds a Masters of Library and Information Science degree with a specialization in Archives/Preservation, and is the First Vice-President of the Illinois State Genealogical Society, and board director for the Oswegoland Heritage Association.
Wednesday, October 21
10:00 am to 11:15 am Pacific Time – Fiske Genealogical Library, Seattle (Free Virtual Class)
Prior to Departure: Uncovering Overseas Emigration Information
Presented by Lisa Vogele
For links to join the meeting and get class notes, select https://fiskelibrary.org
Most genealogists focus on arrival records, but valuable clues often exist before an immigrant boarded a ship. Explore passports, emigration permissions, military clearances, police registrations, health certificates, parish records, censuses, departure lists, and other pre-departure sources that document the decision to leave. Through examples from Germany, Italy, Scandinavia, Ireland, and beyond, learn effective strategies for locating and interpreting these records to uncover ancestral origins, migration stories, and clues that may help solve genealogical brick walls.
Lisa Vogele is a professional genealogist and certified travel advisor (CTA). She is the Chief Tree Climber at Travel Your Tree: Where Ancestry Meets Adventure, a full-service family history research, travel planning and tour operator. In 2016, Lisa authored Food & Folklore: A Year of Italian Festivals, a guide book to assist travelers with incorporating festivals into their itineraries and experience local culture through food and historic events. Her travel tips have been featured in the Huffington Post, 1000traveltips.com and her travel blog, LisaLovesToTravel.com.
Wednesday, October 28
10:00 am to 11:15 am Pacific Time – Fiske Genealogical Library, Seattle (Free Virtual Class)
Faith and Founding Fathers: Religion’s Role in America’s Story
Presented by Sylvia Tracy Doolos
For links to join the meeting and get class notes, select https://fiskelibrary.org
Beginning with the American Revolution, religion has shaped our ancestors’ lives. Discover faith-driven events that can help unlock your family’s story.
Sylvia Tracy Doolos, owner of New Leaf Genealogy, is the President of the Wales, Ireland, Scotland, England Family History Society (WISE-FHS), and Past-President of the Colorado Chapter of the Association of Professional Genealogists, and the International Society for British Genealogy and Family History (ISBGFH).
Wednesday, November 4
10:00 am to 11:15 am Pacific Time – Fiske Genealogical Library, Seattle (Free Virtual Class)
FREE LAND: Homesteading on the Frontier
Presented by Tina Beaird
For links to join the meeting and get class notes, select https://fiskelibrary.org
The Homestead Act of 1862 allowed any qualified individual to claim up to 160 acres of free land. Over 1.6 million people rose to the challenge and claimed 270 million acres of land of which an estimated 17 million Americans are descendants. Original homestead claims are a fantastic collection of documents, including applications, land descriptions, citizenship affidavits and more. Learn how to access these great records and how they can fill in the gaps to your research.
Tina Beaird, owner of Tamarack Genealogy, is the genealogy & local history librarian at a mid-sized Chicagoland public library. She holds a Masters of Library and Information Science degree with a specialization in Archives/Preservation, and is the First Vice-President of the Illinois State Genealogical Society, and board director for the Oswegoland Heritage Association.
Wednesday, November 11
10:00 am to 11:15 am Pacific Time – Fiske Genealogical Library, Seattle (Free Virtual Class)
Navigating Ancestral Arrivals: A Genealogist’s Treasure Map to Immigration Records
Presented by Lisa Vogele
For links to join the meeting and get class notes, select https://fiskelibrary.org
Your ancestors’ arrival in the U.S. is a key chapter in your family’s story—are you searching in the right places? This session will guide you through the intricacies of immigration records, helping you decode passenger manifests, interpret cryptic notations, and uncover the stories of those “Held for Inquiry.” With research tools, proven strategies, and real-life case studies, you’ll gain skills to track down elusive ancestors and bring their immigration journey to life.
Lisa Vogele is a professional genealogist and certified travel advisor (CTA). She is the Chief Tree Climber at Travel Your Tree: Where Ancestry Meets Adventure, a full-service family history research, travel planning and tour operator. In 2016, Lisa authored Food & Folklore: A Year of Italian Festivals, a guide book to assist travelers with incorporating festivals into their itineraries and experience local culture through food and historic events. Her travel tips have been featured in the Huffington Post, 1000traveltips.com and her travel blog, LisaLovesToTravel.com.
Wednesday, November 18
10:00 am to 11:15 am Pacific Time – Fiske Genealogical Library, Seattle (Free Virtual Class)
Shaky Leaf Syndrome: Using Website Generated Hints More Effectively
Presented by Sara Cochran
For links to join the meeting and get class notes, select https://fiskelibrary.org
Indexing, optical character recognition, and computer algorithms make finding obscure records about our families easier than ever! Unfortunately, computers can’t distinguish between people of the same name who lived in different places or at different times. Using real examples, we’ll practice evaluating hints and attaching the keepers to our trees.
Sara Cochran is a full-time professional genealogist with over thirty years of research experience. She especially enjoys breaking down brick walls, discovering the stories of black sheep ancestors, and helping individuals preserve their photographic legacy. Sara holds a Boston University Genealogical Research Certificate, a Bachelor’s Degree in Library Science, and is an alum of the ProGen Study Group. She is a member of DAR and other lineage societies, the Association of Professional Genealogists, and the Genealogical Speakers Guild. You can find her online at TheSkeletonWhisperer.com.
Tacoma Pierce County Genealogical Society Mystery Book Club
Tacoma-Pierce County Genealogical Society Mystery Book Club Meeting
Saturday, September 19, 3:30 pm
Please join us as we discuss a fictional genealogical book, A Quiet Inheritiance, the first book in the Marblehead Genealogy Mystery series, by Matthew Schmidt.
More information at:
Amazon: A Quiet Inheritiance
This book may also be available in print from various book stores or libraries.
Every month on the Third Sat beginning at 3:30 PM Pacific
Please download and import the following iCalendar (.ics) files to your calendar system.
Join Zoom Meeting
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Meeting ID: 819 9921 3610
Passcode: 479394
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+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
Meeting ID: 819 9921 3610
Passcode: 479394
Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/keibNHDdyf
Lower Columbia Genealogical Society Finding Your Female Ancestors
Genealogist and Lecturer
Her topic is
Finding your Female Ancestors
The speaker at the Lower Columbia Genealogical Society’s
Sept 10th , 2026 zoom meeting will be Amber Oldenburg. Her topic is Finding Your Female Ancestor
Virtual meeting doors will open at 9:30 am.
Speaker’s program will begin at 10:00 am
The public is invited to attend
Please consider joining our society for $20/yr.
For a link to join the meeting or to join the society contact lcgsgen@yahoo.com 24hrs prior to the event
Wenatchee Area Genealogical Society Roots and Roots Tracing How Families Came to Wenatchee
Seattle Genealogical Society Tip of the Week Let AI Build a Timeline
TIP OF THE WEEK — LET AI BUILD A TIMELINE
By Susan Aumaier
When records pile up, it can be difficult to see how all the pieces fit together. A timeline can reveal problems that are easy to miss when examining records individually.
AI can organize your evidence chronologically and help you spot conflicts, gaps, and events that need further investigation.
Instead of asking:
“Make a timeline of John Smith’s life.”
Try:
“Using only the evidence I provide, create a chronological timeline for John Smith. For each event, list the date, place, event, and source. Do not add facts or fill gaps with assumptions. Flag conflicting dates or locations, events that appear chronologically impossible, and significant gaps that may need further research.”
Attach your records or paste your research notes into the AI along with the prompt.
Review the completed timeline yourself. Pay particular attention to overlapping residences, children born when a parent was unusually young or old, events occurring in distant places within a short period, and long unexplained gaps.
A timeline does more than organize information. It can show you where the evidence does not fit together and help identify your next research question.
Remember, AI is a research assistant, not a genealogical source. Verify the timeline against the records you provided.
Seattle Genealogical Society September 2026
 base image courtesy of Kari Shea / Unsplash, montage by Sheyna Watkins NEW SITE A NEEDED UPGRADEThe Seattle Genealogical Society’s long-awaited website redesign is finally here.”We wanted a new, more modern look, with capabilities for mobile and tablet use,” webmaster Melinda McRae stated. “We also wanted a site that would streamline processes, be user friendly, and not need a lot of hands-on maintenance.”The site is available for patrons to access now at dev.seattlegenealogicalsociety.org, but will soon be available to view at the seagensoc URL.The WordPress platform was chosen for the project because of the large number of design and software options. McRae’s previous experience in web development led her to take on a leading role. “I had been through the design and build process with several websites,” she observed.  New Site Changes Event Registration ProcessTo register for a SIG, go to SGS Calendar/Upcoming Events and click on the SIG meeting you want. Use the Register button on that page to sign up for a meeting.How to Set Up Your Member AccountIf you had an account on the previous site you do not need to create a new account. To move your account to the new site go to member login and enter the username you used on the old site. Then click lost password. Click to open the form and enter your email or username. Hit send. You will then receive an email with a link to reset your password. You can reuse your old password or create a new one. The new site handles several functions without additional work from SGS volunteers.”In the past, many SIG leaders were responsible for handing out links and sending reminders to members,” McRae explained. “This is now handled entirely by our calendar system. Attendees register on our site, get the link to zoom registration, and then sign up there for the meeting link. Our website sends out reminders before every meeting. This saves work for everyone and adds an extra layer of security for the zoom meetings.”The news site will also be able to handle paid events — seminars and classes — through the calendar.SGS’s databases will also have a new robust searching platform.”We have been able to add more member-restricted databases to the site and more will be on the way,” McRae stated. “Members can now search across all the databases at once, or just the one they need. This was a great improvement.”The site is currently live while final testing is completed.”We are still operating in tandem with the old site as we iron out unexpected kinks, but we are well on our way to making the full switchover soon,” McRae observed.  base image Walls.io / Unsplash, montage by Sheyna WatkinsNARROWING DATES WHEN VITAL RECORDS ARE NOT AVAILABLESecond Saturday, September 12, 1 p.m.What is a genealogist to do with a research subject, born before the era of vital records, who left a lifetime of documents indicating a year of birth that varied by as much as 15 years? In this case study of an African American woman from South Carolina born in the late 19th Century, the Genealogy Standards for evidence correlation and resolving evidence inconsistencies led to one likely date of birth. Chronological tables and visual charts generated by AI helped identify patterns across sources. Her sibling’s birth dates and probable dates of conception helped narrow down a possible date of birth. Carolyn holds a Certified Genealogist® credential from the Board for Certification of Genealogists® and serves on the Board of Trustees for BCG. She is also an accredited genealogist professional in African American genealogy from the International Commission for the Accreditation of Professional Genealogists (ICAPGen™). She is passionate about identifying ancestors, learning their stories, and preserving them for future generations.Sign Up NEXT MONTH: Diana Elder Presents “AI in Genealogical Research: A Practical Approach.” Sign up for this event held October 10.  The Seattle Genealogical Society Library is located inside the Good Shepherd Center EXPLORE THE SGS LIBRARYDiscover What Your SGS Library Has to Offer Friday, September 18, 10:30 a.m.Have you wondered what resources are available at the Seattle Genealogical Society Library—or perhaps it has been a while since you visited? Join the SGS Field Trip team for a tour of our own research library at the historic Good Shepherd Center in Seattle’s Wallingford neighborhood. We’ll begin at 10:30 a.m. with a tour and orientation to the library and its resources. The collection includes books and maps covering every U.S. state and many countries, along with access to subscription genealogy databases and unique SGS resources. As a FamilySearch Affiliate Library, SGS also provides access to some FamilySearch record images that cannot be viewed from home. Following the tour, there will be time to browse the collection, ask questions, and become familiar with the library. Bring a sack lunch or head out locally for lunch. Those who wish to stay are welcome to spend the afternoon at the library. Where Seattle Genealogical Society Library Good Shepherd Center, Suite 302 4649 Sunnyside Ave N Seattle, WA 98103 Research Bring a research project and your laptop if you wish. Library computers are available with access to subscription genealogy databases. You can also bring a small scanning project to take advantage of the library’s scanning equipment. Fee Free for both SGS members and nonmembers Limit 15 people Getting there Free parking is available at the Good Shepherd Center. Metro routes 62 and 44 also serve the surrounding area.Sign Up for the TourWSGS NAMES SHEYNA WATKINS AS VOLUNTEER OF THE YEARBy Greer GrenleyThe Washington State Genealogical Society (WSGS) has proudly named Sheyna Watkins as one of their 2026 Volunteers of the Year. Watkins oversees the WSGS monthly e-newsletter, managing everything from finding stories and maintaining the content calendar to editing, formatting and preparing each issue. With 1,316 subscribers, the newsletter serves as the society’s primary communication tool.  SheynaWatkins She also leads the writing group, where she sends out reminder emails and helps new members get comfortable with the writing process. “We are so grateful for Sheyna’s ongoing contribution to keeping everyone informed about people and events in our SGS community,” says Kathy Weber, Board President of SGS. Watkins’ interest in genealogy dates back to elementary school when she created her first family tree. About eight years ago she decided to take a deeper dive into her family history and began writing about her grandfather. “I started telling his story and expanded looking into his ancestors and what shaped his life, and what that meant for the world, the church, and the family,” she says. Watkins’ background in technology, graphic design and journalism has helped her thrive as a volunteer. She says she likes having solid deadlines, particularly with an e-newsletter that goes out every month. Looking ahead, Watkins is eager to see how the organization continues finding new ways to serve the community through its library program and can reach more people. “I’m excited to continue eNews and dive deeper into the content,” she says. She also hopes to one day publish her grandfather’s story. ADD NEW TOOLS TO YOUR TOOLBOX: SGS DATABASESVirtual Sunday, September 20, 1 p.m.What might the Seattle Genealogical Society’s databases hold for your research? With the launch of the new SGS website, members now have online access to an expanded collection of SGS databases and indexes. Join us for a tour of these resources, what they contain, how to search them, and—most importantly—what they might uncover for your family history. We’ll also look at how an index entry can be just the beginning—pointing you toward court files, membership applications, cremation information, and other original sources that may add new details to your research.Register for the Presentation  image Sheyna Watkins Watch this space for news about SGS’s Fall Seminar held November 7.  base image courtesy of Thought Catalog / Unsplash additional material courtesy Christina Forst and Archive.org, montage by Sheyna Watkins SGS CLASS DEMYSTIFIES THE BCG PORTFOLIO PROCESSAre you considering certification through the Board for Certification of Genealogists, or would you simply like to understand the certification process more fully? The Certification Discussion Group offers an opportunity to learn about the requirements, standards, and portfolio elements involved in becoming a certified genealogist. The next series begins on 2 November 2026 and includes seven virtual sessions, meeting on Mondays and Thursdays. Participants will explore the certification process in a supportive setting and gain a clearer understanding of what is expected in a successful portfolio. All classes are held online, making the program accessible from anywhere. Go to the website for more information and sign up for our registration email (coming in this month). SGS CALENDAR OF EVENTS Good Shepherd Center, Suite 302 4649 Sunnyside Ave N Seattle, WA 98103 206 522-8658Hours : 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 Wednesday, Sept. 2, 2026, 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m., Pacific Northwest Interest Group (Virtual), Share information and discuss Pacific Northwest genealogical research. Register on the SGS website. Thursday, Sept. 3, 2026, 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m., Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Genealogy SIG (Virtual), explore the intersection of artificial intelligence and genealogical research Email SGSAISIG@seagensoc.org. Saturday, Sept. 5, 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. Sunday, Sept 6, 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, Sept. 7, 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. NEW Zoom link starting in July! Thursday, Sept. 7, 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. Tuesday, Sept. 8, 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, Sept. 8, 2026, 6:30 p.m.-8:30 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. Thursday, Sept. 10, 2026, 7:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m., Publishing SGS Journal, Participate in writing and publishing the SGS Journal twice a year. Email SGSPubSIG@seagensoc.org. Saturday, Sept. 12, 2026, 1:00 p.m-2:30 p.m., Second Saturday, “Which Date is Right?” presented by Carolyn Ladd. Register here. Monday, Sept. 14, 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. NEW Zoom link starting in July! Wednesday, Sept. 16, 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. Thursday, Sept. 17, 2026, 1:00 p.m.-2:00 p.m., NEW! SIG Interest Meeting: Legacy Family Tree (Virtual), We are exploring the formation of a new Legacy Family Tree Software SIG. If there is sufficient interest, the SIG will meet on the third Thursday of each month, with Siri Nelson as the group leader. See calendar for more information. Sunday, Sept. 18, 2026, 10:30 a.m-noon., Field Trip – Explore the SGS Library, Join the SGS Field Trip team for a tour of our own research library at the historic Good Shepherd Center in Seattle’s Wallingford neighborhood. Register here. Saturday, Sept. 19 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, Sept. 19 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. Sunday, Sept. 20, 2026, 1:00 p.m-2:00 p.m., Virtual Sunday, Genealogist’s Toolbox: SGS Databases. Register here. Monday, Sept. 21, 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. NEW Zoom link starting in July! Tuesday, Sept. 22, 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. Wednesday, Sept. 23, 2026, 7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m., Mexican SIG (Virtual), Share information and discuss Indigenous North American, Spanish, Cuban, and Hispanic genealogical research. Email Diane Hughes-Hart at SGSMexSIG@seagensoc.org to join. Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026, 10:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m., DNA SIG, Join our quarterly meetings to discover what’s new in genetic genealogy and learn more about select, in-depth topics. To participate you need to be on the SGS DNA Interest Group email list. Contact Cary Bright at sgsdnasig@seagensoc.org to join. Monday, Sept. 28, 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. NEW Zoom link starting in July! Thursday, Oct. 3, 2026, 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m., Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Genealogy SIG (Virtual), explore the intersection of artificial intelligence and genealogical research Email SGSAISIG@seagensoc.org. Saturday, Oct. 3, 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. Sunday, Oct 4, 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, Oct. 5, 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. NEW Zoom link starting in July! Thursday, Sept. 5, 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, Oct. 7, 2026, 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m., Pacific Northwest Interest Group (Virtual), Share information and discuss Pacific Northwest genealogical research. Register on the SGS website. Thursday, Oct. 8, 2026, 7:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m., Publishing SGS Journal, Participate in writing and publishing the SGS Journal twice a year. Email SGSPubSIG@seagensoc.org. Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026, 1:00 p.m-2:30 p.m., Second Saturday, “AI in Genealogical Research: A Practical Approach” presented by Diana Elder. Register here. Check the calendar on the SGS website for the most recent dates and times and for additional events as they are added. OUR NEIGHBORS AND BEYOND “Finding Your Female Ancestors” with Amber Oldenburg Lower Columbia Genealogical Society Thursday, Sept 10, 9:45 a.m. From maps, to archival inventories, and to databases galore, Miriam Weiner’s Routes to Roots Foundation website is a treasure trove of resources to help you find your Jewish ancestors! Come learn about how to use this important tool in your genealogical research. Learn more and register. “Using Autosomal DNA for 18th and 19th Century Mysteries” with Blaine Bettinger Eastside Genealogical Society Thursday, Sept 10, 6:30 p.m., program at 7 p.m Even though our 18th and 19th century ancestors have been dead for decades, their DNA still survives in their descendants. Learn how to use autosomal DNA to attack and potentially solve genealogical mysteries and brick walls for ancestors who were born or lived in the 1800’s, 1700’s, and beyond. Learn more and register. “Finding your Family with Miriam Weiner’s Routes to Roots: Utilizing The RTR Foundation Resources in your Research” with Ellie Vance Christensen Jewish Genealogical Society of Washington State Monday, Sept 14, 6:30 p.m., program at 7 p.m From maps, to archival inventories, and to databases galore, Miriam Weiner’s Routes to Roots Foundation website is a treasure trove of resources to help you find your Jewish ancestors! Come learn about how to use this important tool in your genealogical research. Learn more and register. TIP OF THE WEEK — LET AI BUILD A TIMELINEBy Susan Aumaier When records pile up, it can be difficult to see how all the pieces fit together. A timeline can reveal problems that are easy to miss when examining records individually.AI can organize your evidence chronologically and help you spot conflicts, gaps, and events that need further investigation.Instead of asking:“Make a timeline of John Smith’s life.”Try:“Using only the evidence I provide, create a chronological timeline for John Smith. For each event, list the date, place, event, and source. Do not add facts or fill gaps with assumptions. Flag conflicting dates or locations, events that appear chronologically impossible, and significant gaps that may need further research.”Attach your records or paste your research notes into the AI along with the prompt.Review the completed timeline yourself. Pay particular attention to overlapping residences, children born when a parent was unusually young or old, events occurring in distant places within a short period, and long unexplained gaps.A timeline does more than organize information. It can show you where the evidence does not fit together and help identify your next research question.Remember, AI is a research assistant, not a genealogical source. Verify the timeline against the records you provided. Join SGS Today* to renew your membership: log in on the Members Home page. DONATE TO SGSYour 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. | |
| September 2, 2026 SGS eNews! comes out the first of every month. contact eNews! forward this email to a friend | |
Olympia Genealogical Society School Censuses What, When, and Where
Billie Stone Fogarty will present “School Censuses: What, When, and Where” at the OGS monthly general meeting on September 10, 2026. The Zoom meeting starts at 6:30 pm for social time, with the speaker starting around 7:00 pm. The meeting information (including the Zoom meeting link) is on the OGS website at https://olygensoc.org/events/september-2026-meeting. Send an email to info@olygensoc.org if you have questions.
Program: Discover one of genealogy’s most overlooked resources – the school census. These records, often taken long before vital records existed, can fill critical gaps in family research, reveal the answers to family mysteries, confirm family migrations, and give a rare glimpse into daily family life and local history. Learn what they covered, when they were made, and where to find those that still exist. Bring your ancestors’ early years to life – one classroom at a time.
Speaker: Billie Stone Fogarty, a professional genealogist since 1979, has taught genealogical skills to audiences of all ages on all levels from local through national and international both in person and virtually. She is founder and co-creator with Matt McCormack of a learning retreat for professional genealogists called Gen-Stock. She also, along with Dr. David McDonald, created the Genealogy Symposium, an intensive, state library & archives-based genealogy methods program based on the theme “Thinking Genealogically”. The inaugural Genealogy Symposium was hosted by the Oklahoma State Archives and the Oklahoma Historical Society of which Billie has been a statewide-elected Board member since 2007. She is the founder and principal of the family history research firm, HeritageTrackers, based in Oklahoma City, OK.
Stillaquamish Valley Genealogical Society The Washington State Library
Stillaquamish Valley Genealogical Society
Monthly Business Meeting & Presentation
The Washington State Library: Bureaucracy to the Rescue
Tuesday, September 8th
1:00 pm
SVGS Library
6111 188 PL NE, Arlington, WA
Our speaker this month will be, Crystal Hicks.
This event will be a live Zoom presentation shown only at the SVGS library. Everyone is welcome to attend this free presentation.
Crystal’s topic: The Washington State Library: Bureaucracy to the Rescue
Crystal will speak about the collections available and how to access the variety of resources at the Washington State Library that may help you with your family research.
Crystal’s Bio:
Crystal Hicks brings a rich background in reference and genealogy services to her current role. Before relocating to Washington from Texas eighteen months ago, she served as Assistant Director of a public library, where she supported patrons with local and family history research and oversaw public-facing reference services
She is now Head of Collections at the Washington State Library’s Central Library in Tumwater, where she manages a broad and varied portfolio; special collections including manuscripts and rare books, newspapers, journals, the Northwest book collection, maps, government publications, and genealogy materials. Her work centers on building, preserving, and expanding access to collections that serve historical research, public accountability, and community memory.
There will be a short break with refreshments.
The monthly meeting will follow.
For more information visit stillygen.org