Category Archives: Monthly Society News

Seattle Genealogical Society June 2026

by Charles Hansen

image of a family where the father's face is obscured with the words Finding a Father: A DNA Case Studay 19th CENTURY CASE STUDY WILL SHOW HOW DNA HELPED FIND A FATHERSecond Saturday: June 13, 1 p.m.When no birth record exists, how can we identify a biological father? Patricia B. Coleman, Ph.D. will present a case study to SGS that follows a woman born about 1877 in Lee County, Virginia, and demonstrates how DNA evidence can resolve questions that traditional records cannot. Using tools such as Genetic Affairs, One2Tree, and BanyanDNA, this session highlights a clear, step-by-step approach to clustering DNA matches, building trees, and testing hypotheses to reach a supported conclusion. 

Patricia Coleman is a professional genealogist specializing in DNA analysis and Irish research. Much of her recent work focuses on analyzing Irish records, building DNA match family trees, and identifying shared ancestors through evidence-based methods. She is a moderator for the DNA Painter and Genetic Affairs Facebook user group and frequently presents on genetic genealogy, Irish research, and practical applications of AI in genealogy. Sign Up Membership Meeting: June 13, 2:30 p.m.Learn what is happening at SGS. Election results will be shared after the Second Saturday presentation June 13. Sign up for both the Second Saturday presentataion and membership meeting. 

SECOND SATURDAY GOES ON SUMMER BREAK: See you in September for “Which Date is Right?” with Carolyn Ladd. Sign up separately for this event held Sept. 12. 
 base image courtesy of Kateryna Hliznitsova / Unsplash

 SGS ELECTS 2026–2027 OFFICERSThe Election Committee met on May 11 to count the votes and certify the results from the recent SGS elections. The results are as follows:  President, Kathy Weber  Vice President, Lisa Oberg Secretary, Leslie Vogel Treasurer, Betsey Cotter Director of Education, Stephanie O’Connell Director of Library, Kathi M. Thanks to the membership for participating in our 2026-2027 election. We also wish to thank the Election Committee consisting of Amandalei Bennett, Bruce A Finlayson and Woods Fairbanks. 

LIBRARY NEWSSGS and Internet ArchiveIn 2021 when SGS decided to move from its location on Sand Point Way to its current location in the Good Shepherd Center, we knew we would not be able to keep our entire library of books. After making difficult decisions on what we would keep, donating hundreds of books to Seattle Public Library and a book sale, we still had approximately 3000 books remaining. Following discussions with Internet Archive, they agreed to accept our donation with the understanding the material would be digitized and made available online (subject to copyright).

More than 100 boxes of books were moved to a temporary storage space in Seattle until arrangements were completed for Internet Archive to transport the material to their storage facility. At the temporary storage facility, it was necessary to unpack the 100 boxes, catalog each book for our records and repack the books into sturdier shipping boxes. In addition to the SGS President and Director of Library a team of volunteers – Woods Fairbanks, Ellen Peterson, Allegra Andersen and Melanie Mosher – spent two days completing the necessary work.

We recently received notification that our donation to Internet Archive has been digitized and is available to access online. Internet Archive will be listing the material in a metadata field so it will be easy to locate all items associated in the Seattle Genealogical Society collection. As of eNews press time, about one-third of SGS’s donated book are displaying on the site with the correct metadata and can be accessed here. If you are interested in viewing a particular book online that is not displaying, please email library@seagensoc.org with the book’s title and we’ll provide you with a direct link to the book.

 Archion NewsHaving trouble deciphering the handwritten entries in the church books? With its new text recognition feature, researching the original document is now more convenient.

There are two ways to use text recognition:

Search and use transcribed church books

Church books that have already been transcribed can be found specifically using the new filter function in the location search and used for research together with the original.

Use Text Recognition On-Demand for individual pages

If a church book has not yet been fully transcribed, individual relevant pages can be sent for text recognition directly from the Viewer. After just a few minutes, the recognized text is available together with the original entry.

SGS Desk Volunteers will be available to assist you with using this new feature.

 Library’s Evening Hours Change; No Evening Hours in AugustEvening Hours at the SGS library will change in June to 6 to 8 p.m. going forward. Evening hours are held every third Wednesday of the month. However, there will be no evening hours in August. 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 Monday, June 1, 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, June 3, 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.

Saturday, June 6, 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.

Saturday, June 7, 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. NOTE the change of day due to the Easter holiday.

Monday, June 8, 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.

Tuesday, June 9, 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, June 9, 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.

Saturday, June 13, 2026, 1:00 p.m-2:30 p.m., Second Saturday, “DNA Case Study: Finding a Father ” Presented by Patricia B. Coleman, Ph.D.. Register here.Saturday, June 13, 2026, 2:30 p.m-3:00 p.m., Membership Meeting, Register here. One registration works for both the Second Saturday presentation and the Membership Meeting.

Monday, June 15, 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.

Wednesday, June 17, 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.

Friday, June 19, 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, June 20 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, June 20 2026, 1:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m, German SIG (Virtual), topic: Friedrich Eiler, Building an Identity with Scant Clues. Jill Morelli will be telling you a fun story of researching a German rogue. Register on the SGS website.

Monday, June 22, 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.

Tuesday, June 23, 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.

Saturday, June 27, 2026, 10:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m., DNA SIG (Virtual), Join our quarterly meetings to discover what’s new in genetic genealogy and learn more about select, in-depth topics. Email SGSDNASIG@seagensoc.org to join.

Monday, June 29, 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.

Wednesday, July 22, 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. NOTE: New Zoom link starting this month.

Check the calendar on the SGS website for the most recent dates and times and for additional events as they are added.

CALENDAR NOTES: No Artificial Intelligence (AI) SIG meeting in June.    OUR NEIGHBORS AND BEYOND       “Exploring the Nuances of FamilySearch for Genealogical Research” with Veronica Anguiano
Jewish Genealogical Society of Washington State
Monday, June 8, 7:00 p.m. (virtual — Zoom opens at 6:30 p.m.) 

FamilySearch is one of the most powerful—and free—resources available to genealogists, yet many researchers only scratch the surface of what it offers. This presentation will provide a practical overview of FamilySearch’s key tools, including historical records, the collaborative Family Tree, and unique resources such as the catalog, full-text search, and digital image collections. Get more information and register.“Bureaucracy to the Rescue: Unlocking Family Mysteries with State Records” with Crystal Hicks
Jewish Genealogical Society of Washington State
Thursday, June 11, 7:00 p.m. (virtual — Zoom opens at 6:30 p.m.) 

Genealogists often overlook government publications, but these materials can play a key role in solving difficult research problems. The Washington State Library preserves one of the most extensive collections of state and territorial publications in the country, and many of these resources are available online even when the building is closed. This presentation introduces researchers to these often-underused sources. Case studies will show how government documents can help identify family members, trace migration patterns, and more. Get more information and register.


“Following a Civil Case Through Documents Filed in Court” with J. Mark Lowe
Eastside Genealogical Society
Thursday, June 11, 7:00 p.m. (virtual — Zoom opens at 6:30 p.m.) 

About our program: Our ancestors often utilized the judicial systems to resolve conflicts and make estate judgments. Finding court records for your family and neighbors can provide a wealth of information for your research. Understanding the arrangements of court records can help you find the right documents. Learn the basics of the legal system. Understand the process of following a case through court including dockets, orders, depositions, etc. Find the key to solving a problem using these records. For more information and to register.

 TIP OF THE WEEK — FIND THE WOMEN IN YOUR FAMILY TREEFind the names of female ancestors in the ledger in their local general store. Purchases by the family are listed by household account numbers in a day book which often mentions the various family members. There is usually a corresponding account book with additional information.Join SGS Today* to renew your membership: log in on the Members Home page
and click the green renew membership button.

 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. 
  June 1, 2026

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

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South King County Genealogical Society June to July

by Charles Hansen

June to early July with South King County Genealogical SocietySKCGS Banner.png

Happy Summer! 

SKCGS Members will find the playback access code for Steven W. Morrison’s presentation at the end of this email. *if you expected to find the code but do not see it, your SKCGS Membership has expired. Renew on our website: https://www.skcgs.org/support-skcgs/membership 

Most of our small meetings continue through summer; our Speaker Series will resume in September. Write to Education@skcgs with suggestions or even better, volunteer to join the team planning our education year, contacting possible speakers, and arranging their talks.  

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 Main 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. https://www.skcgs.org

*Members: passcode for the recording of this month’s speaker presentation is at the bottom of this email.*

JUNE to Early JULY 2026 MEETINGS & EVENTS

All meetings are Pacific Time (PT) zone

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

Tuesday, June 2, 2pm PT: SKCGS Board Meeting. All SKCGS Members invited; write to Board@skcgs.org for Zoom link. Note that the time has changed.

Friday June 5, 12:30–2:30pm PT, German Interest Group (EGS)(Online). Topic: “Striking Gold: Using Cluster Research to Identify an Unknown Father by  Dana Palmer, CG®, CGL®  Visitors welcome and more information at https://gig.eastsidegenealogicalsociety.org/. Registration is required: https://tinyurl.com/432j5fvu 

Blended ethnic families can be tough to trace. Be successful finding your German ancestor’s parents by using cluster research techniques and free online tools. This case study presentation will show how an unknown father of a German Catholic family who lived in Cincinnati was found by searching for others with the same name who were living in the same location and belonged to the same church.

Discussion will show how analyzing church records, obituaries, cemetery and other records led to the discovery of the unknown father and his origins in Germany. This is a great example of using cluster research to find elusive ancestors.

Presenter:  Dana Palmer, CG®, CGL.® Dana specializes in Midwestern research, lineage society applications, and publishing family books. In addition to her client work, she is part of the Mayflower Silver Books team, and lectures at RootsTech and the National Genealogical Society (NGS) conferences. Her book Ultimate Guide to Mastering Family Search was released in print and digitally in November 2025.

Saturday, June 6, 10–11am PT:Family Tree Maker User Group (Online). Topic: General Q&A for the Family Tree Maker Program. Subscribe to the free SKCGS FTM email list for meeting reminders and discussion: https://skcgs.groups.io/g/FTMUG

Monday, June 8, 1–2pm, PT: Genetic Genealogy/DNA Interest Group (Online). Topic: What’s New at Gedmatch? See Getting Started with GEDmatch Tier 1 Tools | One-to-Many Essentials & Match Strategies: https://youtu.be/8sgPRq_9ud0?si=3uWYnUC4U7AEOWjl. We are genealogists who use DNA data as part of their research. Join the free email group for meeting notices and discussion: ttps://skcgs.groups.io/g/Genetic-Genealogy

Wednesday, June 10, 2–3pm PT: WikiTree Users (Online). Topic: Tools to improve your WikiTree profiles and move your research forward. Wikitree Users collaborate to create the best collaborative tree on Earth. Join our free online group: https://skcgs.groups.io/g/Wikitree-SIG. 

Thursday, June 11, 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, June 15,  1-2 pm  PT: Tech User Group. Topic: Firm foundation for trees: Research notes. Strategies to create notes you will use, accessible everywhere. The Tech Users Group share knowledge and learn about technology tools, media, apps and websites. Join our free email group for meeting information and discussion: https://skcgs.groups.io/g/TUG.

Thursday June 18: 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 June 19, 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 June 20, 10 am PT: Steven W. Morrison, MPA presents “Digging Up New Dirt – Part 1: Unearthing the REAL New England Immigrant; Part 2: Finding, Proving, and Publishing.” Join at 9:30 am for social time. The presentation will be recorded for review by SKCGS Members.

Steven Waltz Morrison, MPA was an adjunct faculty for seven years, & the past-president of both the Puget Sound APG Chapter, and the Olympia Genealogical Society. He’s presented to all the genealogical societies across Western Washington. In 2022 he spoke at the NGS conference, and presented to international audiences in Canada and Ireland three times. In 2016, Steven received the Scholar Award from The American Society of Genealogists.He has coordinated genealogical institute courses on Quakers four times: at the British Institute, the Genealogical Research Institute of Pittsburgh, and at the Salt Lake Institute of Genealogy twice. In 2026, Steven will co-coordinate the first genealogical institute course focusing on the five Northwest States: Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Montana, & Wyoming. It will be presented by the Salt Lake Institute of Genealogy in February to May of 2026, as an online course. Twenty-three topics, with twelve instructors: Research in the US Northwest. 

Part 1: DIGGING UP NEW DIRT: Unearthing the REAL New England Immigrant. Do you believe that family associations know everything about their early New England ancestors? Well, guess again! While Deacon John Doane’s activities in the Plymouth Colony are well documented, his life in his mother country was a complete mystery. Learn what nuggets YOU might uncover about your elusive ancestor, by revisiting original records and adding historical context to your timeline. 

Part 2: DIGGING UP NEW DIRT: Finding, Proving, and Publishing. Follow the trials and tribulations of a small group of dedicated family researchers who set out to identify the ancestor of Deacon John Doane. Over a decades-long search, plausible theories were researched and eventually discarded as dead ends. Then the release of online records resulted in a wave of new discoveries. Comparative analysis from both sides of the pond eventually proved that a candidate from London, England was the likely youthful Deacon. A case study for the ages for anyone with a lost New England ancestor.

Monday June 22, 1-2pm PT: Genealogy Chat (Online). Meet up and chat about genealogy subjects and topics. We have no agenda; we just like one another! 

Saturday, July 4:  Independence Day. No FamilyTree Maker meeting; KCLS closed.

No July SKCGS Board Meeting. Email Board@skcgs.org with concerns.

Wednesday, July 8, 2 – 3pm PT: WikiTree Users (Online). Topic: Leveraging the FamilySearch Family Tree (FSFT) to improve Wikitree (WT) Ancestor Profiles. Begin by improving the FSFT profile and ensure that all appropriate records are linked to each family member. Merge duplicate profiles if necessary, and unlink mistaken records. Then use Sourcer to create or improve the WT profile and the FSFT Sources tab to gather all the free source-cited records for each Wikitree profile. You can also link <WT<>FSFT profiles in both so researchers can jump back and forth. Wikitree Users collaborate to create the best collaborative tree on Earth. Join our free online group:https://skcgs.groups.io/g/Wikitree-SIG. 

Thursday, July 9, 11am–1pm PT: Genealogy Help with SKCGS at Renton Main Library (In-person). 100 Mill Avenue S, Renton, WA. 

Monday, July 13, 1–2pm PT: Genetic Genealogy/DNA Interest Group (Online). email group for meeting notices and discussion: https://skcgs.groups.io/g/Genetic-Genealogy. Topic: Collaboration with DNA Matches &  Other Relatives. Bring your experiences and suggestions about where to find these groups. 

Thursday , July 16: EGS German Interest Group will celebrate its 40th Anniversary in our old LDS room in Bellevue. Remember Christmas Potlucks? Remember visiting after our in-person meetings? Can you believe we haven’t done this since 2020?  Significant others are invited. If you want more details, just send an email to GIG_Leader@eastsidegenealogicalsociety.org

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

  • 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 Part1, “Digging Up New Dirt:  Unearthing the Real New England Immigrant” AND Part 2, “Finding, Proving and Publishing”

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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

Seattle Genealogical Society May 2026

by Charles Hansen
montage of a man looking at his family tree with the words Find Your Family's Story. Beginning Genealogy classes start May 20/21 NEW BEGINNING GENEALOGY CLASSES START SOONMorning Classes Begin Wednesday, May 20
Evening Classes Begin Thursday, May 21Motivated to learn more about your family’s story? Want to learn how DNA can help? SGS will be offering a new beginning Genealogy class in May. This class fun, online and interactive will give you the tools to succeed in your research.
 
This class includes four weekly sessions online with a fifth, optional session in person at the SGS library. The class covers how to successfully conduct, organize, and record research for your genealogy. How to begin? How to evaluate evidence? What are the best sources? Where are the records–online and off? What can DNA tell us?

Start your journey on a foundation of good habits and best practices.  Participation will help you develop great genealogy skills.  The course finishes with a list of favorite sources for additional learning and an optional meet-up with a personal research session at the SGS library.

There are two options for class time, start on May 20 and 21, and both will be taught by Cecellia Rogers: Morning class, Wednesdays 10 a.m. Evening class, Thursdays 7 p.m. Weeks 1 – 4 will meet virtually and consist of lecture, discussion, and workshop for one-and-a-half-hours each session.

Week 5 (optional) includes a library tour and one-on-one research assistance.
 
There is a limit of 20 people per class. Class fee $80 (SGS members $60). Learn more. Join the Class!images courtesy of Michael Walk, Mike Tinnion, Johann Siemens, Jennie Razumnaya / Unsplash



image of an old photo album with the words: Cataloging digital images Second Saturday: May 9, 1:00 p.m.Tame your digital family photographs by adding names, dates, and other information to images to make them searchable. This presentation outlines a simple and effective process – from scanning, tagging, and saving images to organizing and backing up these image files – so you can do it once and do it right.

Nancy Loe, a professional genealogist and archivist with decades of experience, helps family historians search smart, find more, and stay organized. As a presenter, she specializes in search strategies, information management, and U.S. and European research and records, speaking at conferences and webinars in the U.S., Canada, and Australia.Sign Up Today!NEXT MONTH: DNA Case Study: Finding a Father. Sign up separately for this event held June 13. Stay after the presentation for the June membership meeting.
  photo courtesy of laura-fuhrman / Unsplash
 SGS ELECTIONS: BALLOTS DUE BY MAY 7;
RESULTS AT JUNE MEMBERSHIP MEETINGLet your voice be heard! SGS members can find an email dated April 14 which will contain a link to their ballot. Vote for SGS leaders for the coming year!

Election results will be shared at the June Membership Meeting.Membership Meeting: June 13, 2:30 p.m.Learn what is happening at SGS. Election results will be shared after the Second Saturday presentation June 13. Sign up for both the Second Saturday presentataion and membership meeting. 

 USE THE STORIED GENEALOGICAL TOOLKITVirtual Sunday, May 17Join SGS as we kick off The Genealogist’s Toolbox, a new Virtual Sunday series where we look at different tools available for genealogy, and discuss how they might fit into our own work.  

With so many programs available, it can be difficult to know what exists—or which ones might be useful. This series offers an opportunity to become more familiar with available tools together.

This session will feature Storied, a platform that combines family history research with tools designed to help bring our ancestors’ stories to life. We will watch a pre-recorded demonstration, followed by time for questions, discussion, and observations. Sign Up!LIBRARY NEWSFamilySearch AccessSome FamilySearch catalog records and details are only available to users when signed-in to their FamilySearch account.  This is due to record permissions, licensing agreements, or access restrictions set by the record custodians. These access requirements may change over time as records are updated or new agreements are established.

To ensure the highest level of website security and ensure proper access to records, beginning April 30, 2026  FamilySearch users will be required to sign in to their FamilySearch account in order to access the FamilySearch Catalog.

 Researching at the SGS LibraryBruce and Steve visited SGS library Tuesday April 7Melanie attending a SIG from the Lib and having a chance to implement what she is learning on a second screen!Above: Bruce and Steve visited the SGS Library Tuesday April 7.

Left: Melanie attending a SIG meeting from the SGS Library. She had a chance to implement what she was learning on a second screen.
courtesy Jill Morelli 

SGS VOLUNTEER OF WINTER QUARTER: HELEN SHAWCROFTHelen Shawcroft has been recognized as SGS’s Winter 2026 Volunteer of the Quarter for her valuable contributions as a Library Trustee over the past several years. She shared the following with eNews:Photo of Helen ShawcroftHelen Shawcroft My genealogy research journey started when I was a child. My father was into family history in the days before digitization of historical records. Everything came from family documents or a few census records. I was always fascinated by the family tree that he put together with his mother and the family history booklet he was given at a family reunion. He shared his love of family history with his favorite first cousin and I have continued that research with the daughter and granddaughter of that cousin.

I didn’t really start my genealogy research in earnest until I went on a business trip to the University of Iowa in my role as a senior executive at the University of Washington Medical Center. My father was born in Iowa and I took a vacation day to visit his hometown and its genealogical society. What a treasure trove I found! After that I was really hooked on genealogical research. I didn’t have much time to work on family history until I retired, although I did manage a trip to Tennessee to start my discovery of my mother’s family history. I didn’t know much detail about my mother’s family other than a few anecdotes (with no names attached) like one of my ancestors was a signer of the California State Constitution, someone fought in the Revolutionary War, some ancestors fought on both sides during the Civil War, my great-great grandfather drove 20,000 head of sheep from Chihuahua, Mexico to California, etc.

Since I retired I have visited Poland to see the area where some ancestors lived until the 1850’s. I’ve dragged my husband all over central California to see the places my mother’s ancestors lived starting in the 1840’s, including the foothills of the Sierras that the Mono Tribe calls home and the valley where my ancestors were the first white settlers, as well as records regarding my grandfather’s days as the sheriff of Madera County. And soon we will be going to Scotland to do the same. I’ve even found an ancestor in Tucson, Arizona where he was a businessman, philanthropist and governmental leader. That ancestor is related to my current brick wall. My research in Tucson didn’t provide a lot of information back in time, but I still consider it quite a success since it yielded some maps of where he lived and did business and a photo of my great great great grandmother.

While I have found lots of records on line and in the SGS Library and learned much about my ancestors that way, I have found that traveling to the places where my ancestors lived to be far more rewarding. Not only did I find new records from those travels, but I gained a greater understanding of their lives. I hope that SGS engenders in its members and visitors to our great library the same interest I have. There are so many resources there and our members are an even greater resource.

I found my time as a Library Trustee to be a way to give back to the wider Puget Sound community. I spent my career in health care, the last 35 years as a hospital administrator at the University of Washington. I always looked at my professional career as a way to help people in my community, however broadly one wanted to define it. In my retirement I knew I couldn’t sit still and knew I needed to give back to my community. The SGS gave me one more way to do that. 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 

Saturday, May 2, 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, May 3, 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, May 4, 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, May 4, 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, May 6, 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.

Thursday, May 7, 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.

Saturday, May 9, 2026, 1:00 p.m-2:30 p.m., Second Saturday, “Cataloging Digital Images” Presented by Nancy Loe. Register here.

Monday, May 11, 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. 

Tuesday, May 12, 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, May 12, 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. 
Wednesday, May 13, 2026, 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, May 14, 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.

Friday, May 15, 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, May 16 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, May 16 2026, 1:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m, German SIG (Virtual), topic: Friedrich Eiler, Building an Identity with Scant Clues. Jill Morelli will be telling you a fun story of researching a German rogue. Register on the SGS website.

Monday, May 20, 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.
Sunday, May 17, 2026, 1:00 p.m-2:00 p.m., Virtual Sunday, “Genealogist Toolkit: Storied.” Register here.

Monday, May 18, 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, May 18, 2026, 1:00 p.m.-2:30 p.m., SGS Board of Directors Meeting (in-person at SGS Library this month), All SGS members are welcome to attend. SGS is an all volunteer organization. Please be involved. NOTE: New date and venue this month only!

Wednesday, May 20, 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.

Monday, May 25, 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. 

Tuesday, May 26, 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, May. 28, 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.

Monday, June 1, 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, June 1, 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, June 3, 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.

Saturday, June 6, 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.

Saturday, June 7, 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. NOTE the change of day due to the Easter holiday.

Monday, June 8, 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.

Tuesday, June 9, 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, June 9, 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.

Saturday, June 13, 2026, 1:00 p.m-2:30 p.m., Second Saturday, “DNA Case Study: Finding a Father ” Presented by Patricia B. Coleman, Ph.D.. Register here.

Saturday, June 13, 2026, 2:30 p.m-3:00 p.m., Membership Meeting, Register here. One registration works for both the Second Saturday presentation and the Membership Meeting.

Monday, June 15, 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.

    OUR NEIGHBORS AND BEYOND       Fiske Genealogical Library Various Wednesdays, 10:00 a.m. (virtual)

May 6: Is it True? Using Manuscripts and Family Records for Genealogical Proof 
Speaker: Steven W. Morrison 

May 13: Moonshine & Coal Mines: Unraveling Stories & Secrets to Reconstruct a Family through Oral History documents and DNA 
Speaker: Lisa Vogele 

May 20: From Territory to State: Records you Might Miss 
Speaker: Sylvia Doolos 

May 27: Mapping your Migrating Ancestors 
Speaker: Tina Beaird

For more information and to register.


“Reading Bubbe’s Letters Using AI. Unlocking Jewish Historical Documents: AI-Powered Transcription of Yiddish and Beyond” with Edna Kalka Grossman, Hatte Rubenstein Blejer and Jan Gronski
Jewish Genealogical Society of Washington State
Monday, May 11, 7:00 p.m. (virtual)

The speakers showcase the power of AI-driven transcription and translation for handwritten Jewish historical documents, focusing on Yiddish as a primary example. Get more information.


“Just Because It Can Be Wrong Doesn’t Mean It Is,” with Paula Williams
Eastside Genealogical Society
Thursday, May 14, 6:30 p.m. (virtual)

Online trees, record hints, DNA predictions, and ethnicity estimates are often shunned, but can still provide valuable clues for our research and lead us to newly available record sets. We’ll discuss ways to evaluate the hints and determine which to use and which to lose! For more information and to register.

 TIP OF THE WEEK – SPRING IS CEMETERY SEASON
By Kate Penney HowardSpring is cemetery season for genealogists. Here are the field notes I wish someone had given me when I started.

Bring a kit, but keep it reasonable. You don’t need a backpack full of equipment you won’t use. My kit includes a wide-brim hat, water, sunscreen, and a soft natural-bristle brush. I also carry a spray bottle with distilled water, a rigid notebook, two pens, a small mirror, and a phone with a fully charged battery. I’ve stopped carrying chalk, shaving cream, and flour. Preservation professionals have been clear for over a decade: these substances damage stone.

Document the whole plot, not just the one stone. Family burials cluster. A single ancestor might share a plot with a sibling who died in childhood, a first wife you didn’t know existed, or a cousin whose name appears on no other record. Take a wide photograph of the plot before you zoom in. Note the stones on either side. Note the section and row if the cemetery is mapped.

Read light, not stone. A weathered inscription often reads better at dawn or late afternoon, when the sun strikes the surface at a shallow angle. If you can’t wait for the right time of day, bring a mirror. Stand with your back to the sun, hold the mirror at roughly 45 degrees, and bounce the light across the stone. The shadows in the carved letters will deepen. This costs nothing and harms nothing.

Photograph with care. Shoot straight on, not at an angle. Fill the frame with the stone and not much else. Take one shot for the dates and names, then take a wider shot that shows context, material, and condition. If the inscription is hard to read, take the same photo three times at different exposures. Modern phones do this automatically in HDR mode.

Record as you go. Memory is the least reliable field tool. Before you leave the cemetery, open your notebook. Write the cemetery name, the date of your visit, the weather, and the section if known. Sketch a rough map of where each photographed stone sits. Skip this step, and you’ll return to your desk with thirty-seven images of granite and no idea which one is your great-grandmother.

Respect the living, too. Small rural cemeteries often sit on private land or are maintained by township trustees. Check before you visit. FindAGrave and BillionGraves both list cemetery types and sometimes contact information. A phone call ahead is rarely refused and often rewarded; the person with the key frequently knows more about the cemetery’s history than anything written down.

Upload afterwards. If you photograph a stone that isn’t yet on FindAGrave or BillionGraves, consider adding it. Your picture becomes a permanent record accessible to researchers who may never visit the site. Stones weather. Cemeteries are lost to neglect, development, and flooding. Your image today may be the only image in fifty years.

One last thought. Cemeteries are not laboratories. The people buried there had names and faces and people who loved them. Walk gently. Leave nothing except footprints, and take nothing except photographs and field notes.  Join SGS Today* to renew your membership: log in on the Members Home page
and click the green renew membership button.

 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. 
 
May 1, 2026

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Heritage Quest Research Library Military Appreciation Month

by Charles Hansen
May Happenings 2026 National Military Appreciation Month American 250 Patriot Celebration Our major fund-raising event of the year is coming up on June 9th! There are many different tasks that need to be done with varying degrees of time and/or money commitment involved.
For the next six weeks we are putting all our effort into selling tickets to this event and soliciting items for the auctions (i.e. live, silent, dessert), as well as themed baskets and/or items for a raffle.
We need everyone to become involved in helping to ensure our success. Please ask your family, friends and the businesses you frequent if they would be willing to buy a ticket and/or donate an item or a basket for the auctions. I hope you see the need and will get involved.
You can purchase tickets online using the QR code on the image above, in person at the library. Our librarians can also process ticket purchases over the phone. You will need to give them your credit card information and email address to complete the transaction. Purchase tickets early to to reserve a place for this event as the price for tickets will go up after May 24. All tickets must be pre-purchased and cannot be purchased at the door. If you want to sit with family or friends, please note their names when you purchase your ticket.  You are the key to our success and the future of HQRL! Here’s How You Can Help Outreach Distributing Flyers and Posters Contacting potential donors Solicit local businesses for sponsorship opportunities Invitations to family and friends Donations Auction Items for live auction Baskets Theme basket for auction Items for theme baskets Gift Tickets Event Day Decorating Welcome table coverage Auction spotters Sell raffle tickets Setup and take down Upcoming Events Thursday, May 7 Beginning Your Family History   11:00 am to 12:00 pm Heritage Quest Research Library (Classroom & Zoom) This FREE class will be taught by our research librarians. Learn how the library can help you and how to start. Sign up in the HQRL Store so we know you are coming and we can send you handouts/or a zoom link.
Attend in-person at the HQRL classroom (limit of 8 persons), or via Zoom. A Zoom link will be sent to your email 1-2 days before the class along with any handouts. —– Wednesday May 20 HQRL Management Team Meeting HQRL Classroom 12 noon – 2 pm
Thursday, May 21 Unusual Places to Find Irish Births & Naturalizations in American Records   11:00 am to 12:00 pm Heritage Quest Research Library (Classroom & Zoom)
Debra M. Dudek explains how and where to widen your search for your Irish ancestors birth date, place of origin, and their American naturalization details from a variety of underutilized resources! In this lecture, you’ll learn how to utilize a combination of research methodologies and combine them with military rosters, sailing registers, professional registrations, and much more!
Register online using the HQRL Store link on the library website or in-person at the Library
Attend in-person at the HQRL classroom (limit of 8 persons), or via Zoom. A Zoom link will be sent to your email 1-2 days before the class along with any handouts. 
Sunday May 24 America 250 Patriot Celebration early ticket sales ends. Tribute to Carmen If you haven’t met Carmen McIntyre yet, you as missing out. Carmen’s friendly, energetic enthusiasm, and marketing skills makes her an excellent Promotions Coordinator.
Carmen is also very talented in creating graphics for posters. flyers and handouts. She is quick to offer help to others learn new skills.

Working with her is a pleasurable and worthwhile experience. Carmen McIntyre Promotions Coordinator Thank you Carmen for all you do and are!  Tips to Trace Your Roots Through American Independence The Legacy Tree Genealogists Blog Legacy Tree Genealogists, Inc. Rachel Whiting, Genealogist
The American Revolutionary War (1775–1783) was a turning point in the lives of countless families across the United States, Canada, and further abroad. If you’ve ever wondered whether your ancestors were involved in the fight for (or against) American independence, Revolutionary War genealogy can be an exciting journey! Tracing your roots back to the American Revolution requires a bit of creativity and an understanding of what records are available (and where to find them). This blog offers several resources to help you discover if your lineage includes Patriots or Loyalists who fought in the American Revolution.

#1: Start With What You Know: Family Lore and Documents As with other genealogical journeys, it is important to begin with your immediate family knowledge. Does your family have an old family bible, letters, or military relics? Have you heard your grandparents talk about an ancestor who “fought in the war” or received land from a military grant?
Participants in the Revolutionary War were often young men, typically born between 1730 and 1760. Women also played a role in the conflict (often as nurses, spies, or supporters); however, their contributions may be harder to identify in the surviving documentary record.
Continue to trace your lineage backward through the 1790 United States Federal Census. Can you identify an ancestor who was of military age between 1775 and 1783?

#2: Where to Find Revolutionary War Records Once you have identified a potential ancestor, the next step is to dig into the records that can confirm their involvement in the Revolutionary War. A number of lineage societies and online databases provide access to documents from this period. These resources can help you verify and explore your connection to the American Revolution: ·      Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR): The DAR maintains the Genealogical Research System (GRS), which includes verified lineages of Revolutionary War patriots, along with documents supporting each claim. The GRS is searchable online and offers an excellent starting point for discovering whether your ancestor has already been documented. ·      Sons of the American Revolution (SAR): The SAR also collects lineage records and maintains the Patriot Research System (PRS), which includes service information, applications, and source documentation. This database is also searchable online. ·     

 National Archives (NARA): NARA houses comprehensive Revolutionary War records, including pension and bounty-land warrant applications, compiled military service records, and muster rolls. Many of these collections are also available online via FamilySearch and Fold3. ·      Museum of the American Revolution: The Museum of the American Revolution houses the Patriots of Color Archive (available for free via Ancestry), which documents African American and Native American soldiers who served with the Continental Army. ·      Library of Virginia: The Library of Virginia offers online access to land grant files, public claims, and county court records that document military service and civilian contributions to the war effort. Other state archives may also house unique collections related to their local militia and war efforts. When searching these online databases, be mindful of spelling variations. Names were often written phonetically. First names may be abbreviated (e.g., “Wm.” rather than “William”) or may be anglicized versions of foreign names. Boundaries and place names also changed during this era—use the FamilySearch Wiki to determine the establishment year for individual counties.

#3: Where to Find Loyalist Records Not all residents of the American colonies fought for independence. It is estimated that approximately one third of the population was loyal to the Crown, and thousands of these early American families relocated to Canada’s eastern provinces following the Revolutionary War. If you believe your ancestor supported the Crown during the American Revolution, these resources can help you verify and explore your Loyalist connection:

United Empire Loyalists’ Association of Canada (UELAC): UELAC is the leading organization dedicated to preserving the history and legacy of the Loyalists. They also maintain the Loyalist Directory, which includes biographical details, military service records, and settlement information for over 15,000 Loyalists in Canada.
Library and Archives Canada (LAC): LAC maintains several collections of primary documents related to Loyalist history, including land grant petitions, muster rolls, and military service records. Researchers can also access claims submitted by Loyalists for losses sustained during the American Revolution. Many of these records have been digitized and are freely accessible through the LAC website.
Ancestry: Several Loyalist collections are also available from Ancestry, including biographical sketches for early settlers, regimental service records for the British Army, and other documents pertaining to Loyalists who fled to England. Many of these collections are also freely available via Family Search.

#4: Digging Deeper: Adding a Historical Context Military service records, pension files, or bounty land applications often list enlistment dates, unit designations, or even detailed accounts of service. If you are able to identify your ancestor’s regiment, you may be able to trace the unit’s movements using regimental histories, muster rolls, or regimental war diaries! By cross-referencing dates and locations with known Revolutionary War battles, you can piece together where your ancestor might have been during pivotal moments of the American Revolution. https://www.legacytree.com/blog/4-tips-to-trace-your-roots-through-american-independence?_gl=1*137fu55*_up*MQ..*_gs*MQ..&gclid=CjwKCAjwqazPBhALEiwAOuXqdF-N-SuFrWcqifj5BmQ2hWjAPHfyr6ry0E9lxEKhweabl9tI_S15YRoCiVUQAvD_BwE&gbraid=0AAAAADimC595rHGw4VALgWZ40lDqXJVOa
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South King County Genealogical Society May 2026

by Charles Hansen

Happy Summer! 

SKCGS Members will find the playback access code for [Elizabeth Swanay O’Neal’s presentation at the end of this email. *if you expected to find the code but do not see it, your SKCGS Membership has expired. Renew on our website: https://www.skcgs.org/support-skcgs/membership 

David Spangler has offered to take on the role of President, and the Board will officially appoint him at the May board meeting to finish out the current term. We’re grateful for his willingness to lead.

Since no one was nominated for Vice President or Secretary before nominations closed, the Board plans to appoint Valorie Zimmerman as Vice President and Tracy Arnold as Secretary beginning June 1, 2026. Thanks to all our new and continuing leadership.

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 Main 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. https://www.skcgs.org

MAY to Early JUNE 2026 MEETINGS & EVENTS

All meetings are Pacific Time (PT) zone

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

Friday, May 1, 12:30–2:30pm PT: German Interest Group (EGS)(Online). Topic: “Locating Records from Poland Online” by  Julie Roberts Szczepankiewicz. Visitors welcome and more information at https://gig.eastsidegenealogicalsociety.org/. Registration required:  https://tinyurl.com/rp2zubuw. 

Finding records from Poland for genealogical research is a critical step in exploring our Polish ancestry but Poland’s complex history and the language barrier can be confusing. After a brief overview of Poland’s changing borders and their impact on the languages in which historical records were created, Julie will explain the process of identifying one’s ancestral village and illustrate the use of gazetteers to determine the parish and civil registry offices. She will introduce key websites for locating historical records online and offline, with an emphasis on sites that offer indexed records and digital images. Julie will suggest strategies to help you get around the language barrier, and demonstrate how you can trace your Polish ancestry from the comfort of your own home. Julie Roberts Szczepankiewicz is a genealogist, writer, and speaker with nearly 30 years of experience in researching her family’s origins in Poland, Germany, the U.S., and Canada

Saturday, May 2, 10–11am PT: Family Tree Maker User Group (Online). Topic: General Q&A for the Family Tree Maker Program. Join our free SKCGS FTM email list for meeting reminders and discussion: https://skcgs.groups.io/g/FTMUG

Tuesday, May 5, 2pm PT: SKCGS Board Meeting. All interested Members are invited to; write Board@skcgs.org for the Zoom link. Note the new meeting time.

Monday, May 11, 1–2pm PT: Genetic Genealogy/DNA Interest Group (Online).Topic: Proving your Family Tree with DNA Evidence. See DNA in Action 1 of 6: Proving Your Pedigree with DNA: https://familytreewebinars.com/webinar/dna-in-action-1-of-6-proving-your-pedigree-with-dna.We are 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, May 13, 2–3pm PT: WikiTree Users (Online). Topic: Powering Wikitree with your DNA data, easily & safely. Start here: https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Help:DNA. Wikitree Users collaborate to create the best collaborative tree on Earth. Join our free online group: https://skcgs.groups.io/g/Wikitree-SIG. 

Thursday, May 14, 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. 

Friday, May 15, 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, May 16, 10–11:15am PT: SKCGS Speaker Series (Online):  Elizabeth Swanay O’Neal “Research at the library…without leaving home!”

Looking for books about your family history? You may be able to find them without leaving the comfort of home! Millions of books have already been digitized and are free to use and download to your personal library. Learn where to find the best digital book collections, how to search them strategically, and how to save your finds for later reference.

Elizabeth Swanay O’Neal, Certified Genealogist®, is a researcher, writer, educator, and national genealogical speaker. Her specialties include methodology, technology, and online research resources. Since 1987, Elizabeth has made it her goal to research, share, and preserve her family stories. She is a co-host of the Branching Out Genealogy Podcast (https://branchingout.show) and the author of the family history lifestyle website Heart of the Family™ (https://www.thefamilyheart.com). Her mission is to help others make the past part of their present.

Meeting opens at 9:30 am PT for social time.

Monday, May 18, 1–2:pm PT: Tech User Group (Online).Topic: What’s the Process? Analyzing  & improving work flows. Are you using new tools, new sites, AI, or some nifty gadgets to make your research more fun, accurate, or more foolproof? The Tech User Group share knowledge and learn about technology tools, media, apps and websites. Join our free email group for meeting information and discussion: https://skcgs.groups.io/g/TUG.

Thursday, May 21: 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: Federal Way Main Library, 34200 1st Way S, Federal Way, WA

Tuesday, June 2, 2pm PT: SKCGS Board Meeting. All SKCGS Members invited; write to Board@skcgs.org for Zoom link. Note that the time has changed.

Friday June 5, 12:30–2:30pm PT, German Interest Group (EGS)(Online). Topic: “Striking Gold: Using Cluster Research to Identify an Unknown Father by  Dana Palmer, CG®, CGL®  Visitors welcome and more information at https://gig.eastsidegenealogicalsociety.org/. Registration is required:   https://tinyurl.com/432j5fvu 

Blended ethnic families can be tough to trace. Be successful finding your German ancestor’s parents by using cluster research techniques and free online tools. This case study presentation will show how an unknown father of a German Catholic family who lived in Cincinnati was found by searching for others with the same name who were living in the same location and belonged to the same church.

Discussion will show how analyzing church records, obituaries, cemetery and other records led to the discovery of the unknown father and his origins in Germany. This is a great example of using cluster research to find elusive ancestors.

Presenter:  Dana Palmer, CG®, CGL.® Dana specializes in Midwestern research, lineage society applications, and publishing family books. In addition to her client work, she is part of the Mayflower Silver Books team, and lectures at RootsTech and the National Genealogical Society (NGS) conferences. Her book Ultimate Guide to Mastering Family Search was released in print and digitally in November 2025.

Saturday, June 6, 10–11am PT:Family Tree Maker User Group (Online). Topic: General Q&A for the Family Tree Maker Program. Subscribe to the free SKCGS FTM email list for meeting reminders and discussion: https://skcgs.groups.io/g/FTMUG

Monday, June 8, 1–2pm, PT: Genetic Genealogy/DNA Interest Group (Online). Topic: What’s New at Gedmatch? See Getting Started with GEDmatch Tier 1 Tools | One-to-Many Essentials & Match Strategies: https://youtu.be/8sgPRq_9ud0?si=3uWYnUC4U7AEOWjl. We are genealogists who use DNA data as part of their research. Join the free email group for meeting notices and discussion: ttps://skcgs.groups.io/g/Genetic-Genealogy

Wednesday, June 10, 2–3pm: WikiTree Users (Online). Topic: Tools to improve your WikiTree profiles and move your research forward. Wikitree Users collaborate to create the best collaborative tree on Earth. Join our free online group: https://skcgs.groups.io/g/Wikitree-SIG. 

Thursday, June 11, 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, June 15, PT: Tech User Group. Topic: Firm foundation for trees: Research notes. Strategies to create notes you will use, accessible everywhere. The Tech Users Group share knowledge and learn about technology tools, media, apps and websites. Join our free email group for meeting information and discussion: https://skcgs.groups.io/g/TUG.

June 20, 2026: Steven W. Morrison, MPA presents “Digging Up New Dirt – Part 1: Unearthing the REAL New England Immigrant; Part 2: Finding, Proving, and Publishing“

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

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

  • 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 Part1, “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

South King County Genealogical Society April 2026

by Charles Hansen

Happy Spring! 

SKCGS Members will find the playback access code for Robbie Johnson’s presentation at the end of this email. *if you expected to find the code but do not see it, your SKCGS Membership has expired. Renew on our website: https://www.skcgs.org/support-skcgs/membership 

Are you passionate about SKCGS’s mission and looking for a meaningful way to volunteer your skills? We NEED you. In fact, without officers we cannot survive. Legally we will cease to exist at the end of May.

We’re searching for a leader to move into the role of President and 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. Write to Board@skcgs.org to volunteer. We also need a Vice-President and critically, a secretary. See Step Up and Make a Difference   from our outgoing Secretary. 

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 Main 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. https://www.skcgs.org

APRIL to Early MAY 2026 MEETINGS & EVENTS

All meetings are Pacific Time (PT) zone

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

Friday, April 3, 12:30–2:30pm PT: German Interest Group (EGS)(Online)Topic: “Using Hansen’s Map Guides To Locate YourAncestor’s German ParishRecords” by Bernard N Meisner. Visitors welcome. https://gig.eastsidegenealogicalsociety.org/ . Registration required:  https://tinyurl.com/24meu744 

The Map Guides contain detailed information about Catholic and Lutheran jurisdictions for locations within the former German Empire (including areas now in Poland,Lithuania, Russia, Denmark, and France), Switzerland and Luxembourg, and also some information about Jewish congregations in those areas.  Given your ancestor’s hometown, learn how to identify the most likely parish(es) with their records, then check the online availability of the registers on FamilySearch, Archion and/or Matricula.

Presenter Bernard N. Meisner is a genealogist and lecturer based in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. He began researching his family over 35 years ago and enjoys sharing lessons learned from that experience, including his mistakes. 

Saturday, April 4, 10-11am PT: Family Treemaker User Group (Online). Topic: General Q&A for the Family Tree Maker Program. Join our free SKCGS FTM email list for meeting reminders and discussion: https://skcgs.groups.io/g/FTMUG

Tuesday, April 7, 6:30–7:30pm PT: SKCGS Board Meeting (Online). ALL Interested Members write to Board@skcgs.org for the Zoom link.

Wednesday, April 8, 2–3 pm PT: WikiTree Users (Online). Topic: Wikitree FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions. Bring your most pressing questions, and we’ll help one another get over the bumps. From login to leadership, Wikitree needs YOU, and you need Wikitree! Wikitree Users collaborate to create the best collaborative tree on Earth. Subscribe to our free online group: https://skcgs.groups.io/g/Wikitree-SIG.

Thursday, April 9,11am–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.

Monday, April 13, 1–2pm PT: Genetic Genealogy/DNA Interest Group (Online). Topic: Is 23 AndMe back?  We’ll take a look at how it fits into the “DNA  for genealogy” ecosystem, including the new clusters. See  https://throughthetreesblog.tumblr.com/post/810909158988709888/23andme-an-unfortunate-update, and Super Clustering DNA matches from Ancestry with FTDNA and 23andMe! https://youtu.be/BGMUVEXzuAY?si=7P1mvgZ9iu3JZgyQ

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

Thursday, April 16: Genealogy Help with SKCGS  (In-person)

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

* 2–4pm: Federal Way Main Library, 34200 1st Way S, Federal Way, WA

Friday, 17 April, 1–3pm PT: Research Workshop (in person).  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, April 18, 10–11:15am PT. SKCGS Speaker Series (Online) Login at 9:30 for social time. Robbie Johnson will present at 10 after a brief announcement and introduction. Her presentation will be recorded for playback by SKCGS Members. 

You’ve spent decades collecting documents and family artifacts, researching ancestors, and tracking down that mysterious woman in an old photograph you inherited. Now what? How do you take a jumble of information and share it with the people you love? Robbie Johnson will share some of her favorite strategies on writing up your findings for the most important audience: Your family and yourself. This talk will cover approaches to organizing material, prioritizing writing projects, overcoming writer’s block, staying motivated, and tips and tricks for getting words down on paper.

Robbie Johnson holds the credential of Certified Genealogist®. Her research and writing focuses on England, Canada, the Pacific Northwest, Native-Indigenous ancestry, and genetic genealogy. She has presented lectures/workshops for the BCGEducation Fund’s Putting Skills To Work, the SLIG Advanced Analysis Practicum course, Family History Academy, the Denver Library, and several genealogical societies. She’s served as a coordinator and secretary for the ProGen Study Groups, and as a mentor for the GenProof Study Groups and the Certification Discussion Group. Robbie worked for over 40 years as an editor and writer before becoming a professional genealogist. She lives in Skagit County, Washington.

Monday, April 20, 1–2pm PT: Tech Users Group (Online). Topic: Google Drive, Docs, Sheets, Notebook LM, Photos, for Genealogy. We’ve not discussed these tools since 2004. What has changed, and what are good alternatives?

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.

Monday, April 27, 1–2pm PT: Genealogy Chat (Online). Meet up and chat about genealogy subjects and topics. We have no agenda; we just like one another! https://skcgs.groups.io

Friday, May1,12:30–2:30pm PT: German Interest Group. (EGS)(Online) Topic: “Locating Records from Poland Online” by  Julie Roberts Szczepankiewicz. Visitors welcome and more information at https://gig.eastsidegenealogicalsociety.org/ 

Registration is required:  https://tinyurl.com/rp2zubuw

Finding records from Poland for genealogical research is a critical step in exploring our Polish ancestry but Poland’s complex history and the language barrier can be confusing.

After a brief overview of Poland’s changing borders and their impact on the languages in which historical records were created, Julie will explain the process of identifying one’s ancestral village and illustrate the use of gazetteers to determine the parish and civil registry offices. She will introduce key websites for locating historical records online and offline, with an emphasis on sites that offer indexed records and digital images. Julie will suggest strategies to help you get around the language barrier, and demonstrate how you can trace your Polish ancestry from the comfort of your own home.

Julie Roberts Szczepankiewicz is a genealogist, writer, and speaker with nearly 30 years of experience in researching her family’s origins in Poland, Germany, the U.S., and Canada. She holds a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences from the State University of New York in Buffalo and a master’s degree in endocrinology from the University of California, Berkeley. 

Her passion for genealogical research started when she was a graduate student, after she was given a copy of her great-grandparents’ marriage record as a gift. After reading the names of a previously unknown generation of ancestors on that document, she was hooked.

 She currently serves as President of the Polish Genealogical Society of New York State (PGSNYS) and has previously served as Vice-President for the New England Regional Genealogical Consortium, Inc, and Secretary of the Polish Genealogical Society of Massachusetts (PGSMA). She administers several genealogy-related Facebook groups. Her articles have been published in the newsletters of the PGSNYS, the PGSMA, the Polish Genealogical Society of America, the Western New York Genealogical Society, and the Irish Genealogical Society International, and she is the author of a genealogy blog, From Shepherds and Shoemakers.

Saturday May 2, 10–11am: Family Tree Maker User Group (Online). Topic: General Q&A for the Family Tree Maker Program. Join our free SKCGS FTM email list for meeting reminders and discussion: https://skcgs.groups.io/g/FTMUG

Tuesday, May 5, 6:30–7:30pm PT: SKCGS Board Meeting (online). All SKCGS Members welcome; write to Board@skcgs.org for the Zoom link.

Monday,May 11 May, 1–2pm PT: Genetic Genealogy/DNA Interest Group (Online). Topic: Proving your Family Tree with DNA. See DNA in Action 1 of 6: Proving Your Pedigree with DNA: https://familytreewebinars.com/webinar/dna-in-action-1-of-6-proving-your-pedigree-with-dna.

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, May 13, 2–3pm PT, WikiTree Users (online). Topic: Powering Wikitree with your DNA data, easily & safely. Start here: https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Help:DNA. Wikitree Users collaborate to create the best collaborative tree on Earth. Join our free online group: https://skcgs.groups.io/g/Wikitree-SIG. 

Thursday, May 14, 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. 

Friday, May 15, 1–3pm, Research Workshop (in-person). 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, May 16, 10–11:15am PT: SKCGS Speaker Series (Online) Elizabeth Swanay O’Neal:”Research at the library…without leaving home!”

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

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

  • 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 Part1, “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 April 2026

by Charles Hansen
April Happenings 2026 Happy National Volunteer Month!
At Heritage Quest Research Library, we are forever grateful for the dedicated volunteers who show up week after week. Your commitment keeps our doors open six days a week and our collections up to date.
We also extend a huge thank you to the members who step forward whenever called upon to assist with outreach and fundraising.  We couldn’t do this without you!!
A major fundraiser like the America 250 Patriot Celebration has many moving parts—from planning and coordinating different types of “events within the event” to managing volunteers. It takes little imagination to realize that many hands are needed to ensure a successful outcome.   Your consistent willingness to step forward in support of our mission has always been a cornerstone of our success. We are confident that our upcoming Celebration will be no exception. To ensure this milestone event is truly unforgettable, we ask all our members and patrons to participate.
American 250 Patriot Celebration Getting involved Watch for details in May Happenings
Upcoming Events

Wednesday April 1
America 250 Patriot Celebration Tickets Go on Sale HQRL is excited to announce that purchasing tickets for this event has never been easier. The QR code above will immediately connect the buyer to a screen that is easy to navigate, and a receipt will automatically be sent when the transaction is finished. —–

Thursday, April 2
Introduction to WikiTree  11:00 am to 12:00 pm Heritage Quest Research Library (Classroom & Zoom) Join Shonda Feather to learn about WikiTree, which has a live chat so you can ask questions of genealogists all over the world. (WikiTree a shared tree like Family Search). Register online using the HQRL Store link on the library website or in-person at the Library $20+tax for members, $25+tax for non-members
Attend in-person at the HQRL classroom (limit of 8 persons), or via Zoom. A Zoom link will be sent to your email 1-2 days before the class along with any handouts. —–

Tuesday, April 14
America 250 Patriot Celebration Planning Meeting HQRL Library Classroom 1pm – 3 pm —–

Wednesday, April 15 Management Team Meeting Heritage Quest Research Library 12-2 pm —–

Thursday, April 16
Exploring the Community: Researching Beyond Your Ancestor 11:00 am to 12:00 pm Heritage Quest Research Library (Classroom & Zoom) Learn about cluster research and explore resources with Julia A. Anderson to help you better understand the jurisdictions and history of areas where your ancestors lived. Register online using the HQRL Store link on the library website or in-person at the Library $20+tax for members, $25+tax for non-members
Attend in-person at the HQRL classroom (limit of 8 persons), or via Zoom. A Zoom link will be sent to your email 1-2 days before the class along with any handouts. —–

Thursday, May 7
Beginning Your Family History   11:00 am to 12:00 pm Heritage Quest Research Library (Classroom & Zoom) This FREE class will be taught by our research librarians. Learn how the library can help you and how to start. Sign up in the HQRL Store so we know you are coming and we can send you handouts/or a zoom link. —–

Thursday, May 21
Unusual Places to Find Irish Births & Naturalizations in American Records  
11:00 am to 12:00 pm Heritage Quest Research Library (Classroom & Zoom)

Debra M. Dudek explains how and where to widen your search for your Irish ancestors birth date, place of origin, and their American naturalization details from a variety of underutilized resources! In this lecture, you’ll learn how to utilize a combination of research methodologies and combine them with military rosters, sailing registers, professional registrations, and much more! Register online using the HQRL Store link on the library website or in-person at the Library $20+tax for members, $25+tax for non-members
Attend in-person at the HQRL classroom (limit of 8 persons), or via Zoom. A Zoom link will be sent to your email 1-2 days before the class along with any handouts..  

Tribute to Heidi!
Heidi Geise has a long history as an educator and her expertise serves us well in her role as Education Coordinator. She excels in bringing us quality presentations on a variety of topics month after month. Arranging for first class speakers twice a month is no little undertaking, and Heidi seems to do it seamlessly.
Whether a beginner or a seasoned veteran, attendees always find valuable take-aways. Additionally, those who attend in-person find the added benefit of visiting with fellow researchers. There is something special about that “after-class” energy—often, the most breakthroughs happen over a casual conversation or a shared research hurdle.

Many, Many Thanks Heidi!

The Management Team Managing “On the Shelf” Research To avoid the “out of sight, out of mind” trap when life gets busy, you need a “re-entry” system. Research is often a long game. In a packed schedule, research must be “chunked” into manageable parts rather than treated as one giant task. When you have to pause your research use these techniques to ensure you don’t lose your momentum:
The “Breadcrumb” Note: End every session by writing exactly one sentence on what you were about to do next (e.g., “Check the 1920 census for John Smith next”).
A Research Log: Maintain a research log or spreadsheet to track which databases you’ve already searched and which keywords you used, so you don’t repeat work.
Recycling Files: If you delete or set aside sections of writing, move them to a “recycling file” instead of the trash—you might need those ideas or quotes later.
Citation Managers: Use the organizing feature in your genealogy software, or tools like One Note to save papers and data, ensuring you never ask “who was I researching?”.
The One-Hour Research Plan
If you only have one hour, focus on these high-impact, discrete tasks.
First 10 mins: Review your previous “breadcrumb” note to re-orient yourself.
Next 40 mins: Execute one specific search or read one key source.
Last 10 mins: Update your notes and write the next “breadcrumb” for your future self.
Selective Reading
Instead of reading full manuscripts, quickly scan abstracts, discussions, and conclusions to decide if a source is worth a deeper dive.
Successful Micro-Researching
Set a timer to stay on task and maintain a research log to pick up where you left off. Enjoy your Quest

Seattle Genealogical Society April-May 2026

by Charles Hansen
various images showing citizenship, Civil War veterans, New Deal works programs and a railroad land grant map with the words SGS Spring Seminar: Pivotal Moments. Door Prizes: Ancestry DNA test kits, Family Tree Maker software, My Heritage (one year) and Ancestry (on year) TWO-DAY SEMINAR COVERS KEY POINTS OF AMERICAN HISTORYSaturday-Sunday, April 11-12Join Seattle Genealogical Society this spring for a two-day virtual seminar exploring turning points in American history, the records created, and how they can transform your genealogical research.

Presented online via Zoom
Saturday, April 11, 2026,  9:00 AM – 12:00 Noon (PT)
Sunday, April 12, 2026, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM (PT)

Program includes:Great Expectations: Union Pacific Land Grants & East-West Expansion
Presented by Annette Burke Lyttle, CG

Hidden Narratives: Reconstructing Families Through Civil War Pension Records
Presented by Mica L. Anders

U.S. Citizenship: The Law and Records of Naturalization
Presented by Rich Venezia

The New Deal: Putting your Ancestors to Work
Presented by Michael Strauss, MA, AG®, AGL™There will be Door Prizes including: Ancestry DNA test kits Family Tree Maker software My Heritage membership (one year) Ancestry membership (one year) Registration fee: $60.00 (SGS Members – $45.00). Join the Seminar!images courtesy of Library of Congress and National Archives

 image of an old photo album with the words: Cataloging digital images Second Saturday: May 9, 1:00 p.m.Tame your digital family photographs by adding names, dates, and other information to images to make them searchable. This presentation outlines a simple and effective process – from scanning, tagging, and saving images to organizing and backing up these image files – so you can do it once and do it right.

Nancy Loe, a professional genealogist and archivist with decades of experience, helps family historians search smart, find more, and stay organized. As a presenter, she specializes in search strategies, information management, and U.S. and European research and records, speaking at conferences and webinars in the U.S., Canada, and Australia.Sign Up Today!NO SECOND SATURDAY THIS MONTH: SGS will be offering our Spring Seminar: Pivotal Moments: Records that Changed Lives, Families, and History. Learn more and sign up. photo courtesy of laura-fuhrman / Unsplash 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, April 1, 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.

Thursday, April 2, 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.

Saturday, April 4, 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.

Saturday, April 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. NOTE the change of day due to the Easter holiday.

Monday, April 6, 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, April 6, 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. 

Thursday, April 9, 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.

Saturday-Sunday, April 11-12, 2026, Saturday 9:00 a.m-noon, and Sunday 1:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m. SGS Spring Seminar, “Pivotal Moments: Records that Changed Lives, Families, and History” Presented by Annette Burke Lyttle​​, Mica Anders, Rich Venezia, and Michael Strauss. Register here.

Monday, April 13, 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, April 13, 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, April 14, 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, April 14, 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.

Wednesday, April 15, 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, April 15, 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.

Saturday, April 18 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, April 18 2026, 1:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m, German SIG (Virtual), Using FamilySearch’s Full Text Search function. Allyn Brosz will be sharing his experiences using this feature to research his German families in the U.S.. Register on the SGS website.

Monday, April 20, 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.

Friday, April 24, 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.

Monday, April 27, 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.

Tuesday, April 28, 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, April. 29, 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. NOTE: New Zoom link starting this month.

Saturday, May 2, 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, May 3, 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, May 4, 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, May 4, 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, May 6, 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.

Thursday, May 7, 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.

Saturday, May 9, 2026, 1:00 p.m-2:30 p.m., Second Saturday, “Cataloging Digital Images” Presented by Nancy Loe. Register here.

Monday, May 11, 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, May 11, 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, May 12, 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, May 12, 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, May 13, 2026, 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, May 14, 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.   

OUR NEIGHBORS AND BEYOND      
Fiske Genealogical Library Various Wednesdays, 10:00 a.m. (virtual)

April 1: Are you really my Ancestor? 
Speaker: Claire Smith 

April 8: Unlock the 1926 Census of Ireland for Irish Family Research 
Speaker: Susan McKee 

April 15: Women of Letters: Voices from the Frontier
Speaker: Sylvia Doolos

April 22: Tracing Female Ancestors Through Everyday Records 
Speaker: Sylvia Doolos 

April 29: Back to School: Making the most of School Records 
Speaker: Tina Beaird 

May 6: Is it True? Using Manuscripts and Family Records for Genealogical Proof 
Speaker: Steven W. Morrison 

May 13: Moonshine & Coal Mines: Unraveling Stories & Secrets to Reconstruct a Family through Oral History documents and DNA 
Speaker: Lisa Vogele 

May 20: From Territory to State: Records you Might Miss 
Speaker: Sylvia Doolos 

May 27: Mapping your Migrating Ancestors 
Speaker: Tina Beaird

For more information and to register.


“What Could Have Happened? Creating and Proving Hypotheses to Solve Tough Problems,” with Kory Meyerink
Eastside Genealogical Society
Thursday, April 9, 6:30 p.m. (virtual)

One tool of advanced researchers is the well-developed hypothesis, which serves as a starting point for detailed research that can often prove relationships not apparent in standard sources. Learn how to effectively use this approach for your “brick-wall” problems. For more information and to register.

Lower Columbia Genealogical Society
Various Thursdays, 10:00 a.m. (virtual)

April 9: Researching Newspapers Outside of Newspapers.com  
Speaker: Amber Oldenburg

May 14: Subject TBA 
Speaker: Maggie Cogswell

June 11: Missing: Reward! Locating Widows, Spinsters, and Bachelors 
Speaker: Sara Cochran

Learn more and register here.  

“It’s What They Answered To: Understanding Ashkenazic Jewish Names” with Emily Garber
Jewish Genealogical Society of Washington State
Monday, April 13, 7:30 p.m. (virtual)

Name changes, both in adopted countries and in the old world, make determining Ashkenazic (central and eastern European) Jewish names a genealogical puzzle. This presentation will provide some of the basic clues for a researcher to recognize the same person recorded under a variety of names.. Get more information.

 TIP OF THE WEEK – 10 ROOTSTECH REVELATIONSBy Kate Penney HowardRootsTech 2026 wrapped up on March 7. The theme was “Together,” but the unofficial theme was clearly artificial intelligence. AI crashed the party at every forum, every expo booth, and most of the talks. Here are the ten announcements and moments that had people excited.

1. FamilyTreeDNA Rewrote the Rules on Autosomal Testing
FamilyTreeDNA launched new Family Finder tests that analyze over 400 times the genetic data of their previous version — roughly 9% of your genome compared to just 0.02% before. The best news? Upcoming Family Finder Discover reports will be available to all Family Finder test takers, whether they tested recently or years ago.  

2. GEDmatch is Getting a Complete Overhaul
GEDmatch has been the scrappy workhorse of the genetic genealogy world for years. The company previewed a major redesign planned for later in 2026, incorporating AI-powered tools to help users interpret DNA matches and make organizing, filtering, tagging, and analyzing notes far easier. This has been a long time coming.

3. FamilySearch Released Its AI Tools from the Lab
For months, genealogists have been testing FamilySearch AI features in beta. At RootsTech, the AI Research Assistant and AI Hints officially came out of Labs and are now available to all users. Full-Text Search also graduated from Labs, and users can now attach search results directly to the family tree.  

4. FamilySearch Is Testing Natural Language Search
If you have ever wished you could just talk to a database like a person, this one is for you. Simple Search, currently in Labs, is being tested to allow users to search records using natural language. Ask it a question the way you would ask a librarian. See what it tells you!

5. All Revolutionary War Pension Files Are Now Fully Searchable
Ancestry announced that its Fold3 collection of Revolutionary War pension files are now fully searchable thanks to optical character recognition. Researchers can now search for veterans and their next of kin by name, rather than relying on a limited index. For those of us working on pre-1800 American genealogy, this is a genuine breakthrough. They also announced new AI features, including a record and document transcription tool where AI transcribes, summarizes, and provides source citations for documents and photos uploaded to your Gallery.

6. Ancestry Introduced “AI Stories” — And It’s Exactly What It Sounds Like
A new tool called AI Stories narrates a brief story about a document in a shareable, podcast-style audio file. The possibilities here for people who struggle to write about their ancestors are significant. It could be a meaningful bridge for beginners. It raises questions about voice and accuracy that researchers will need to monitor carefully, but the concept is compelling.

7. LifeWeaver Crashed the Party as a Platinum Sponsor
No one saw this one coming. Newcomer LifeWeaver made a significant splash as platinum sponsor of RootsTech 2026. The tool archives and searches through text messages, emails and other digital communication files to create a story from those pieces. LifeWeaver also allows users to add older phones, computers, hard drives, and scanned handwritten journals, digitizing their contents while preserving images of the originals so they can be shared with family. And critically, users’ data is private. The company does not sell data or use it to train AI models.  

8. MyHeritage Unveiled Scribe AI
MyHeritage announced Scribe AI at the RootsTech Innovation Forum, demonstrating how the feature analyzes historical documents and photos to uncover genealogical insights.  The tool provides record suggestions, photo descriptions, and transcriptions. The MyHeritage team also announced Country Coding, a feature that helps sort and organize international records and visualize your ancestors by country.

9. Ancestry Preserve Wants to Digitize Your Shoeboxes
The new Ancestry Preserve service, heavily featured in the Expo Hall, aims to help customers preserve and digitize their old media, including photographs, slides, film tapes, and more. For genealogists who have inherited closets full of analog memories, this fills a real need. The long-term implications for family history are significant. Your grandmother’s slides deserve better than a dark box in a garage.

10. Marlee Matlin and Tara Roberts Reminded Us What This Is All For
The technology announcements were remarkable. But these two keynotes stopped the room. Marlee Matlin, Academy Award-winning actress, shared her inspiring journey of overcoming obstacles and connecting personal triumphs to family history. As a deaf actor, she did not utter a word, but her facial expressions, animated signing, and story had audiences listening with their eyes and hearts. Tara Roberts, National Geographic explorer, shared her extraordinary work documenting slave ship wrecks and reconnecting descendants with their ancestral past.  

RootsTech 2026 made one thing clear. The technology is accelerating faster than most of us can keep up. The challenge for our community is to stay human in the middle of all of it. The records are the beginning. The stories are the point.Join SGS Today* to renew your membership: log in on the Members Home page
and click the green renew membership button.

 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. 
 
April 1, 2026

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Fiske Genealogical Library March April & May Classes

by Charles Hansen

Wednesday, March 18

10:00 am to 11:15 am Pacific Time – Fiske Genealogical Library, Seattle (Virtual Class)

Women of Letters: Voices from the Frontier

Presented by Sylvia Doolos

For links to join the meeting and get class notes, select https://fiskelibrary.org

Women wrote in diaries, newspapers, magazines, and letters to family and friends. Learn about the joy, heartbreak, and determination it took to be a frontier woman.

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, March 25      

10:00 am to 11:15 am Pacific Time – Fiske Genealogical Library, Seattle (Virtual Class)

Internet Archive for the Family Historian

Presented by Tina Beaird

For links to join the meeting and get class notes, select https://fiskelibrary.org

The Internet Archive website has become a must-visit site for genealogy and history, but how do you know you’re getting the most out of your search? Tina will help you navigate Internet Archive by showing you how to effectively use their advanced search features, featured collections and the WayBack Machine and to get the most out of your user experience.

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, April 1  

10:00 am to 11:15 am Pacific Time – Fiske Genealogical Library, Seattle (Virtual Class)

Are You Really My Ancestor?

Presented by Claire Smith

For links to join the meeting and get class notes, select https://fiskelibrary.org

When you find a name match for an ancestor, it’s tempting to believe you’re related. A name isn’t enough to prove the relationship, especially if you have a common surname – like mine! In this session you’ll learn what it takes to prove a lineage, and how to handle conflicting information or multiple potential matches. I will share examples that illustrate how to deal with these issues.

Claire Smith has more than 25 years of experience in genealogy research, specializing in  New England, Ireland, Atlantic Canada, and England. As a former tech executive, she also brings expertise to areas such as DNA, AI, Technology, and Organization. She is Past Director, Seminar Program Chair for the Massachusetts Genealogical Council, and Past president, of the Bainbridge Island (WA) Genealogical Society.

Wednesday, April 8  

10:00 am to 11:15 am Pacific Time – Fiske Genealogical Library, Seattle (Virtual Class)

Unlock the 1926 Census of Ireland for Irish Family Research

Presented by Susan McKee

For links to join the meeting and get class notes, select https://fiskelibrary.org

The 1926 Census of Ireland will be released on 18 April 2026. Discover the background and details contained in this long-awaited census. Enumerated 15 years after the previous census in 1911, it provides a snapshot of Ireland after years of conflict and enormous political and social change in the country. Learn how to make the most of its contents for your Irish family research.

Susan McKee, M.A., is a genealogist specializing in Irish family research. Born and raised in Dublin, Ireland, she is now a U.S. citizen and longtime resident of Seattle, WA, where she facilitates the monthly Irish Special Interest Group for the Seattle Genealogical Society, and makes presentations for genealogical societies across the U.S.

Wednesday, April 22

10:00 am to 11:15 am Pacific Time – Fiske Genealogical Library, Seattle (Virtual Class)

Tracing Female Ancestors Through Everyday Records

Presented by Sylvia Doolos

For links to join the meeting and get class notes, select https://fiskelibrary.org

American women in the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries left records, none unique to women. However, these records can provide unique insights when looked at through a historical lens as American women’s lives changed.

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, April 29

10:00 am to 11:15 am Pacific Time – Fiske Genealogical Library, Seattle (Virtual Class)

Back to School; Making the most of School Records

Presented by Tina Beaird

For links to join the meeting and get class notes, select https://fiskelibrary.org

Learn about the many ways you can access cool details about your ancestors by using school records like yearbooks, school schedules, teacher’s registers, school newspapers, alumni directories and much more. This is one class you won’t want to ditch.

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, May 6   

10:00 am to 11:15 am Pacific Time – Fiske Genealogical Library, Seattle (Virtual Class)

IS IT TRUE? Using Manuscripts and Family Records for Genealogical Proof

Presented by Steven W. Morrison

For links to join the meeting and get class notes, select https://fiskelibrary.org

To some, family records – including diaries, letters, and personal photographs – may be seen as having little genealogical value. Nothing could be further from the truth! Explore how original information from the Oregon trail can shine new light on undiscovered facts or family relationships.

Steven W. Morrison is past president for both the Puget Sound chapter of the Association of Professional Genealogists, and the Olympia Genealogical Society (WA). He has been a professional genealogist since 2006 and has advanced his genealogical education by attending twenty genealogical institutes including the Institute of Genealogy and Historical Research (IGHR),  and the Salt Lake Institute of Genealogy (SLIG. He’s authored multiple articles and books reviews, especially regarding Quakers (Religious Society of Friends), and has presented to all the genealogical societies in Western Washington either in-person or virtually. 

Wednesday, May 13 

10:00 am to 11:15 am Pacific Time – Fiske Genealogical Library, Seattle (Virtual Class)

Moonshine & Coal Mines: Unraveling Stories & Secrets to Reconstruct a Family Through Oral History Documents and DNA

Presented by Lisa Vogele

For links to join the meeting and get class notes, select https://fiskelibrary.org

This case study pieces together the elusive origins of a 19th-century Polish immigrant family. Through DNA analysis, historical records, and myth-busting research, we’ll uncover a tale of poor Pennsylvania coal miners, lost homes, hidden siblings, and even an arrest for an illicit still in the woods. Learn how to navigate surname variations, reconstruct migration timelines, and use modern genealogy methods to bring the past 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, May 20 

10:00 am to 11:15 am Pacific Time – Fiske Genealogical Library, Seattle (Virtual Class)

From Territory to State: Records You Might Miss

Presented by Sylvia Doolos

For links to join the meeting and get class notes, select https://fiskelibrary.org

As our nation grew, territories began keeping records to achieve statehood. Let’s look at records and research strategies that can help you.

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, May 27 

10:00 am to 11:15 am Pacific Time – Fiske Genealogical Library, Seattle (Virtual Class)

Mapping Your Migrating Ancestors

Presented by Tina Beaird

For links to join the meeting and get class notes, select https://fiskelibrary.org

Tina will discuss the usefulness of different types of maps including aerial and birdseye maps as well as cadastral, enumeration, and fire insurance maps. She will give suggestions on how to trace your ancestors using land records available through multiple government agencies such as local and county tax assessors, county clerks, circuit court offices, and land use departments. Tina will also provide suggestions on how to track resources using non-governmental sources like libraries, archives and historical societies.

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.

Seattle Genealogical Society March 2026

by Charles Hansen
various images showing citizenship, Civil War veterans, New Deal works programs and a railroad land grant map with the words SGS Spring Seminar: Pivial Moments SGS SPRING SEMINAR TO LOOK AT TURNING POINTS IN U.S. HISTORYSaturday-Sunday, April 11-12Join Seattle Genealogical Society this spring for a two-day virtual seminar exploring turning points in American history, the records created, and how they can transform your genealogical research.

Presented online via Zoom
Saturday, April 11, 2026,  9:00 AM – 12:00 Noon (PT)
Sunday, April 12, 2026, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM (PT)

Program includes:Great Expectations: Union Pacific Land Grants & East-West Expansion
Presented by Annette Burke Lyttle, CG

Hidden Narratives: Reconstructing Families Through Civil War Pension Records
Presented by Mica L. Anders

U.S. Citizenship: The Law and Records of Naturalization
Presented by Rich Venezia

The New Deal: Putting your Ancestors to Work
Presented by Michael Strauss, MA, AG®, AGL™There will be Door Prizes!Registration fee: $60.00 (SGS Members – $45.00). Join the Seminar!images courtesy of Library of Congress and National Archives


Go on a Heritage Quest TourSGS to Tour Puyallup Research Library, Tuesday, March 24Join us for a visit to the Heritage Quest Research Library, the nonprofit genealogy library in Puyallup, managed and staffed entirely by volunteers. HQRL’s collection includes books (over 16,000 titles), and microfiche. The facility also houses a bookstore where you can purchase genealogy books, family tree forms/charts, software and supplies.

Upon arrival, the group will gather in one of the library’s large rooms and receive an orientation and tour of the library. There is a computer room with five computers. Researchers who bring laptops can connect to the library’s database while on the premises.

The library’s catalog is available online for searching prior to the trip:
https://hqrl.com/libraryRecords.php

Fee
$10 (SGS members) / $15 (non-members).

Limit:
24 people

Lunch
Let us know your preference for bringing a sack lunch to eat in the library or a dining out option. We’ll be in touch with further details as the day draws near.

Coffee
There is a Wanna Cupcake? next to the library for coffee and sweet treats that visitors can bring into the library classroom.

Getting there
Drive: The library has plenty of free parking..Sign Up for the Tour images courtesy of The New York Public Library, Max Harlynking and Trnava University / Unsplash


 TURN YOUR RESEARCH INTO A BOOKJoin a Hands-On Self-Publishing WorkshopJill Morelli Join 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 Workshopimage of green hills of Ireland, clovers and an old book with the words: Unlock the Irish 1926 Census Second Saturday: March 14, 1:00 p.m.In April 2026, the long-anticipated release of the 1926 Irish census will occur. Taken on April 18, 1926, this record set captures the first detailed portrait of life in Ireland following the establishment of the Irish Free State.

Join Irish genealogist Susan McKee as she introduces the 21 datasets included in this census and explains how they can transform your family history research.  

Born in Dublin, Susan McKee is a member of the Seattle Genealogical Society, where she facilitates the monthly Irish Special Interest Group. She presents regularly on researching Irish ancestors, including seminars for the Seattle Irish Festival and genealogical societies across the U.S.Sign Up Today!NO SECOND SATURDAY NEXT MONTH: SGS will be offering our Spring Seminar: Pivotal Moments: Records that Changed Lives, Families, and History. Learn more and sign up. photos courtesy of Ulrike R. Donohue and K Mitch Hodge / Unsplash
book image courtesy of Library of Congress  ‘ANCESTORING’ AUTHOR PUTS RECORDS IN HISTORICAL CONTEXTVirtual Sunday: March 22, 1:00 p.m.In her book Ancestoring: Understanding Records, Family, and Ourselves, Darcie Hind Posz invites genealogists and family historians to look more deeply at the records they use—and at themselves as researchers.Understanding Records affirms the importance of placing records in their historical context.

Understanding Family encourages researchers to ask “why,” and to remain objective and nonjudgmental as they uncover ancestors’ decisions and actions.

Understanding Ourselves challenges genealogists to recognize their own assumptions and biases when analyzing records and interpreting ancestors’ lives.This Virtual Sunday program offers a unique opportunity to hear directly from the author and explore how a more reflective and contextual approach can strengthen both research and writing.

Darcie Hind Posz is an author, genealogist, and researcher. She has been a board-certified genealogist since 2013 and was elected a Fellow of the American Society of Genealogists in 2023. A widely published genealogical writer, her work has appeared in several scholarly quarterlies, and her full bibliography is available at darciehindposz.com.Register now WHY I VOLUNTEER WITH SGSLisa ObergBy Jim Secan,
Vice President,
SGS As the newest person on the SGS Board I’ve been asked to write a short note as to why I chose to volunteer for this position. The main reason is the concept of “pay it forward” as applied to genealogy. I have been able to research my family, none of whom were ever anywhere near the Pacific Northwest, by accessing information collected by volunteer organizations like SGS all over the country, with the information they collected made available either by contacting the organization or through an on-line database. No travel necessary. A lot of key information for my family has come not from Ancestry.com, but from local genealogical society holdings such as these. I see volunteering for SGS, particularly for a Board position, as a way of both paying back these out-of-state volunteers and paying forward to other out-of-state researchers who are tracking ancestors who moved out West and to future genealogists both out-of-state and local.

If you have benefited from the help of an individual at the SGS or at any other GS, consider volunteering at SGS. We have Board positions that need a dedicated volunteer, and various ad hoc positions are open as well. Pay back and pay forward!SGS LIBRARY NEWSExercise Your Research Skills. Help Patrons in 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. 

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, March 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.
Thursday, March 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.
Saturday, March 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.

Monday, March 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, March 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, March 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, March 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, March 11, 2026, 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, March 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, March 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, March 14, 2026, 1:00 p.m-2:30 p.m., Second Saturday, “Unlocking the 1926 Irish Census.” Presented by Susan McKee. Register here.

Monday, March 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 for January – June.
Friday, March 18, 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.

Wednesday, March 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, March 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.

Saturday, March 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, March 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.

Sunday, March 22, 2026, 1:00 p.m-2:00 p.m., Virtual Sunday, “Ancestoring: Understanding Records, Family, and Ourselves” Presented by Darcie Hind Posz. Register here.

Monday, March 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.
Tuesday, March 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.
Wednesday, March 25, 2026, 6:00 p.m-8:00 p.m., Your Story, Your Book: Hands-On Self-Publishing, Jill Morelli shares what she learned self-publishing. She will walk through the major steps of the process and discuss practical considerations to help genealogists move from research to a finished book. Register here.

Saturday, March 28, 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, March 30, 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. 

Wednesday, April 1, 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.Thursday, April 2, 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.
Saturday, April 4, 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
Saturday, April 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. NOTE the change of day due to the Easter holiday.
Monday, April 6, 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, April 6, 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. 
Thursday, April 9, 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.
Saturday-Sunday, April 11-12, 2026, Saturday 9:00 a.m-noon, and Sunday 1:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m. SGS Spring Seminar, “Pivotal Moments: Records that Changed Lives, Families, and History” Presented by Annette Burke Lyttle​​, Mica Anders, Rich Venezia, and Michael Strauss. Register here.

Monday, April 13, 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, April 13, 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, April 14, 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, April 14, 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. 
OUR NEIGHBORS AND BEYOND  
 Fiske Genealogical LibraryVarious Wednesdays, 10 a.m. (virtual)

March 4 The Black Experience in the Revolutionary War
Speaker: Janice Lovelace

March 11 A Genealogist’s Guide to Lesser Known Research Tools  
Speaker: Claire Smith

For more information and to register.

 
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.Lower Columbia Genealogical Society
Various Thursdays, 10 a.m. (virtual)

March 12: Did Your Ancestor Work on the Railroad?  
Speaker: James Tanner

April 9: Researching Newspapers Outside of Newspapers.com  
Speaker: Amber Oldenburg

May 14: Subject TBA 
Speaker:  Maggie Cogswell

June 11: Missing: Reward! Locating Widows, Spinsters, and Bachelors 
Speaker: Sara Cochran

Learn more and register here. 

“How to Write a Family History Book,” with Rebecca Shamblin
Eastside Genealogical Society
Thursday, March 12, 6:30 p.m. (virtual)

Maybe it has always been a secret dream of yours to create a book out of your research. We will talk about the research process, what to include, how to turn facts into stories, how to organize your book, how to get it printed, and finally how to share it. For more information and to register.

TIP OF THE WEEK – NEW FEATURES ON ANCESTRYAncestry has been adding new features that are available to all subscribers. While many of the new features on Ancestry are only accessible to users who purchase the protools package, these tools are being rolled out to everyone. Some users may not have access yet, but will soon.

Ideas
This feature uses AI to generate research tasks for an ancestor. It can accessed using the “Ideas” button on an ancestor’s profile page.

Stickies
Just like a Post-It note, this feature is a handy way to save your to-do list on a profile. They are found in the notes section under each ancestor profile (Tools > View Notes). One stickie can be saved to multiple ancestors.

 Join SGS Today* to renew your membership: log in on the Members Home page
and click the green renew membership button.

 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. 
 
March 4, 2026

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

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