Final Class of 2025Thursday, November 6Inspiring the Next Generation of Genealogists (Classroom & Zoom)11:00 am to 12:00 pmMembers $20/ Non-members $25Presenter: Sue Schlichting, professional Genealogistand webmaster of Pursuing your Past.com Who’s going to take over the family history quest when you’re no longer able? Getting young people interested in their family history is important work. Learn creative ways to get youth involved in their own history search.
Sue Schlichting is a native Nebraskan who has over 30 years of research experience. She has expertise in Midwestern research with an emphasis in German and Swedish records and working with youth. Sue got her start in genealogy as a 4-H member. She enjoys sharing her passion for family history with young people through interactive experiences and tours. The “Family History Detective Roadtrip” was a popular workshop shared with teens across Kansas.
Sign-up and Payment: ZOOM Go to hqrl.com and go to HQRL Store (sign-in as member to get discount) In Person (8 only) Call HQRL – 253 863 1806 Or come to the library 2102 E Main St., Suite 105 Puyallup WA 98372
!!!! IMPORTANT NOTICE !!!! Washington State has expanded its retail sales tax to include in-person classes, seminars, workshops, and other “live presentations”. This means HQRL classes will cost a bit more in 2026.
Can’t find fime to do genealogy research during our regular open days – Monday through Saturday?Then here is something just for you!Heritage Quest Research Library will be openSunday, November 910 am – 4 pmExperienced volunteers will be on hand in a friendly,stress-free atmosphere toAnswer your questionsHelp you get your family history organized or back on trackWork with you to solve those difficult research challengesShare common interests or stories Looking forward to seeing on Sunday, November 9 ** It is always helpful to make a research plan before starting to get the most from your efforts.
Donate a Treasure!Support the Heritage Quest Research Library Holiday Fundraiser.Heritage Quest Research Library is gearing up for our Holiday Bazaar December 1 through December 15,2025, to raise vital funds for our non-profit genealogy resources, services and community classes. To make this event a success, we are seeking donation of items to be offered for our holiday fundraiser. What We Are Seeking: Handmade crafts & creations Vintage items Holiday decor or collector’s items Fun & unique items for holiday gift giving What you need to know: We will be accepting items beginning November 1 through November 29. A box and instructions will be placed at the reception desk to receive donations each day. Items should be self-priced. However, we reserve the right to adjust prices and reject any items for donation. Unsold items are to be picked up by the donor by December 20. Unsold items will be donated to senior facilities. How Your Donation Helps: HQRL is an all-volunteer library dedicated to helping people in the community and beyond discover and preserve their family history. Your contribution ensures we can provide genealogy databases, offer personal assistance to help others discover their family story, maintain our extensive collection of books and resources, and keep our doors open. Please contact Terry Vaughan at tvaughan4775@outlook.comif you have any questions. Bring your donation to the library between the hours of 10 am-4 pm, Monday through Saturday NOVEMBER 1 – NOVEMBER 29.Thank you for helping us preserve the past for future generations! Sincerely, The HQRL TeamNovember Bookstore Specials (These Books 50% Off) Unofficial Guide to Ancestry.comHow to Find Your Family History on the #1 Genealogy Website By Nancy Hendrickson $16.50/Now $8.25Master the world’s #1 genealogy website Discover the secrets to Ancestry.com success! This book shows you how to find answers to your genealogy questions within its billions of records and millions of AncestryDNA profiles. A section on AncestryDNA will also help you understand and analyze your DNA test results. The Beginners Guide to Using Tax Lists By Cornelius Carroll $17.25/Now $8.62A primer for using historical tax records in genealogical research This book provides a guide on how to interpret various types of colonial and early American tax lists to help trace family histories. It explains the differences between tax lists, tithables, quit rents, and other colonial records, and details the laws governing them. Because tax lists place individuals in a specific place at a particular time, they can help trace migration routes. The Ultimate Search BookWorldwide Adoption, Genealogy & Other Search Secrets2015 Edition By Lori Carangelo $16.75/Now $8.37A wealth of hard-to-find data. You will learn 1. How search experts get past the wall of secrecy and roadblocks to their loved ones, 2. How, in the case of adoptees, they find someone without a prior knowledge of the name, and, 3. The trade secrets of both professional investigators and amateur sleuths for legally circumventing roadblocks to accessing information.
TOUR TO EXPLORE THE GENEALOGY DEPARTMENT OF THE SEATTLE PUBLIC LIBRARY Thursday, Nov. 13, 10:30 a.m.Tour of the Genealogy Department at the Seattle Public Library (with optional research time in the Seattle Room)
Join SGS on Thursday, Nov. 13, at Seattle Public Library’s Central branch for a tour of the Genealogy Department and an optional opportunity to research in the library’s Seattle Room.
SPL genealogical librarian and SGS Board member Mahina Oshie, will guide the tour through SPL’s Genealogy Collection and provide an overview of their resources. SGS and SPL have a long history of collaboration starting 102 years ago.
The Hugh and Jane Ferguson Seattle Room Collection comprises over 50,000 items documenting and exploring the culture and history of Seattle and the Pacific Northwest. The room is open to researchers by appointment only. This tour will have access for 10 researchers in the afternoon. Attendees wishing to research in the Seattle Room should indicate their interest when registering for the tour and have a pre-planned research focus. Those who do not get a reserved research space in the afternoon (if demand exceeds 10 people) will be given guidance to arrange for a return visit.
The tour begins at 10:30 a.m. at the library, afterward there will be an optional lunch gathering at a nearby food court (a two-block walk).
Pre-registration required. $20 nonmembers ($15 for SGS members).
Library tour limited to 20 people.
Researching in the Seattle Room is limited to 10 people (places allocated on first come, first served basis). Join the Tour photo courtesy Sylvia Yang / Unsplash Second Saturday: Nov. 8, NoonJoin Dr. Janet Few for an exploration of historical occupations—especially those of women—both paid and unpaid. From lacemaking and straw plaiting to other female-dominated roles, she’ll discuss working conditions, tools, and hazards. Though examples are drawn from England, the insights apply broadly to researching women’s work in the past.
Note: This presentation will begin one hour earlier than usual to accommodate Dr. Janet Few, who will be joining us from England.
Dr. Janet Few earned her Ph.D. in Community History and is an experienced family, social and community historian. She has written several books of interest to genealogists and contributes to family history journals. Janet is currently serving as the president of the Family History Federation. She is heavily involved in the work of family history societies and was awarded the Society of Genealogists certificate of recognition in 2020 for her work. Sign Up Today!NEXT MONTH’S SECOND SATURDAY: “Cataloging Digital Images,” presented by Nancy Loe. Sign up separately for this event held Dec. 13. photo of women making lace in Ireland, courtesy Library of Congress FAMILY STORIES COME TO LIFE THROUGH PRESENTATIONSVirtual Sunday: November 16, 1 p.m. Have you ever worried that your family members won’t read your written family history? Giving a presentation can be captivating way to share your research with relatives and gain support of those who can help you!
Join SGS President and family historian, Kathy Weber, Sunday, Nov. 16, as she shares how she transformed her Irish family history research into an engaging presentation for her relatives during a trip to Ireland. She will outline her approach — structuring the talk, incorporating findings, and share their reactions.Register HereANNOUNCING 2025 SGS VOLUNTEER OF SUMMER QUARTER
Molly Tarlofsky, SGS Eastern European SIG Leader and Volunteer The Board of Directors is delighted to recognize Molly Tarlofsky as Volunteer of the Quarter. Tarlofsky joined SGS in late 2024 and has been quick to make an impact. When asked how she got involved so early in her membership, her dynamism was evident. Tarlofsky shared that Eastern European research is a passion for her, and she wasn’t seeing a lot of genealogical discussion happening locally. Upon joining SGS, Tarlofsky became aware of vacancies for a number of special interest groups (SIGs). She wasn’t sure exactly what successful SIG leadership required, but rather than wait on the sidelines, Tarlofsky took the opportunity to head up the Eastern European SIG. She also volunteers with the SGS publicity team and recently joined her first field trip to MOHAI. Molly Tarlofsky Tarlofsky shared her enthusiasm for SGS, its people and work. Her tip – especially to those who may be new to genealogy or the Society, or those who have not yet gotten actively involved: “You don’t need to be a pro. It’s an amazingly accomplished group with experts who are welcoming and helpful regardless of your experience. And if you look, you’ll definitely find someone who shares your interests.”
A self-described learner who truly enjoys digging into problems, Tarlofsky started to look into her ancestors in elementary school, but realized how little immediate family members knew and also how much of Eastern European life had been left behind. Finding time on her hands during the pandemic, she became more seriously involved in her personal genealogical research, reaching out to distant cousins and recognizing how helpful a hands-on approach can be.
Tarlofsky lives in West Seattle with her husband and dog. She relocated to the area about 10 years ago from the East Coast and, not surprisingly, has enjoyed finding new places to explore around the Northwest.
Learn more about volunteer opportunities with SGS. WELCOME OUR NEW VOLUNTEER CHAIR: SCOTT LAING Scott Laing Scott Laing was appointed by the SGS Board to serve as our new Volunteer Chair. Laing has been involved in genealogical research for the past few years and is looking forward to getting more involved with our Society’s activities and connecting with the members. He plans to attend our Beginning Genealogy series to improve his research methodology. His research has led to active participation in the Seattle Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution.
Outside of family history work, Laing has had a long career in market research, working for startups as well as larger firms. He has participated as an elected officer on several boards in the Puget Sound Community. He is looking forward to using his skills of strategic planning, program development and effective communications in coordinating our volunteer program.
As a lover of travel and food, Laing is looking forward to combining those interests with his genealogical discoveries. BEHIND THE BOOKS: A CONVERSATION WITH SGS AUTHORS Join us Wednesday, Dec. 10 for an evening of stories, discoveries, and inspiration. Three SGS authors, Susan McKee, Jill Morelli and Carolyn Schott will share their research adventures, writing choices, and creative sparks that shaped their books. Susan McKee (An Irish Life: Selected Poems of William Thomas Brennan) Jill Morelli (Journeys of the Forgotten: The Orphans of Hamilton County, Iowa) Carolyn Schott (Visiting Your Ancestral Town: Walk in the Footsteps of Your Ancestors) Enjoy refreshments, conversation, and time to connect with fellow researchers and writers. This event will be held in-person at the SGS Library, Dec. 10, at 6 p.m.
Questions? Contact education@seagensoc.org JOIN THE NEW TRANSCRIPTION GROUP Do you want to improve your transcription skills? A new special interest group is forming to help you do just that.
The group’s focus will be on transcribing and tagging historical documents, rotating through various federal, state, and local records. The first project will focus on Revolutionary War Pension Records, one of the National Archives’ largest Citizen Archivist missions.
Come learn more about the group and ask questions at the meeting on Nov. 19, at 6 p.m. The group will meet the third Wednesday of each month at the SGS Library. Help shape this new SIG. Contact Betsey Cotter at cotterbetsey@gmail.com to sign up and ask questions
SAVE THE DATE: HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE AT THE SGS LIBRARYSaturday, Jan. 10, 10 a.m. Join us for our annual in-person holiday celebration in the SGS library at the Good Shepherd Center. This year’s celebration will be Saturday, Jan. 10, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the SGS Library. Bring cookies to share and celebrate the close of the holiday season.SGS LIBRARY NEWSAdopt a Book at the Surplus Book Sale The library has a number of surplus books that are looking for new homes. Come to the SGS Library to peruse the books and name your price. This is a first come-first served opportunity to provide a new home to one of these surplus books.
Lots to Do at Wednesday Evening HoursThe Library is open the third Wednesday of the month from 6 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Collaborate with SGS members, join the new Transcription SIG which meets in the library during evening hours, peruse the book and map collection or use the Library’s subscription websites — Ancestry, Newspapers.com, Fold 3, Archion, ArkivDigital, FindMyPast or Historygeo. While in the Library, you can also use FamilySearch to images on some of FamilySearch’s locked records.
The Library’s Wednesday evening hours will continue through June 2026. Learn More From a Library TourInterested in learning more about SGS Research Library? Contact the Director of Library (library@seagensoc.org) to schedule a tour. HELP SPL PATRONS RESEARCH THEIR FAMILIES Members Sought for SGS-SPL Pilot ProjectThe SGS Board and the Seattle Public Library have agreed to a pilot project bringing genealogy volunteers to branch libraries. This not only shares our genealogy skills with the public who visit their neighborhood library but also introduces more people to SGS and our Special Interest Groups, classes and Library resources. We need 10-15 volunteers to sit in one of three SPL branch libraries and answer genealogy questions from library patrons. SGS members will work in teams of two people on specific weekday afternoons. You should have at least intermediate level research skills. Training will be provide by SPL staff. Email splvolunteers@seagensoc.org. SGS CALENDAR OF EVENTSGood Shepherd Center, Suite 302 4649 Sunnyside Ave N Seattle, WA 98103 206 522-8658 Hours : Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday ** 10:00 a.m .- 3:00 p.m. ** Always check the SGS Website Calendar of Events for the meeting links, registration, or for last minute updates or changes to the schedule. Be advised you may need to register in advance to join a meeting. All times listed are Pacific Time unless otherwise noted Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025, 10:00 a.m.- 12:30 p.m., FamilySearch SIG, Discover the many ways to use the FamilySearch website in your research. Meeting includes instruction and time for Q&A. Email SGSFamilySearchSIG@seagensoc.org to join the mailing list. NOTE: New starting time!
Sunday, Nov. 2, 2025, 2:00 p.m.-4:00 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: Change of time, this month only.
Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, 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, Nov. 3, 2025, 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, Nov. 5, 2025, 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, Nov. 6, 2025, 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, Nov. 8,2025, noon-1:30 p.m., Second Saturday, “Women at Work” Presented by Dr. Janet Few. Register here. NOTE: Change of time, this month only.
Monday, Nov. 10, 2025, 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, Nov. 10, 2025, 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, Nov. 11, 2025, 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.
Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2025, 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, Nov. 12, 2025, 7:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m., MAC Computer SIG, Jointly sponsored by SGS and Fiske. Meetings address topics and resources for Macintosh (Apple) computers and the Reunion genealogy software program. A link to login will be sent to the MAC SIG email list. If you would like to join, send an email to macusersig@seagensoc.org to be added to the email list.
Thursday, Nov. 13, 2025, 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, Nov. 15, 2025, 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, Nov. 15, 2025,1:00 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, Nov. 16, 2025, 1:00 pm- 2:00 pm, Virtual Sunday: Bringing Family History to Life through Presentations (Virtual), Join SGS President Kathy Weber as she helps you find ways to share your research with relatives. Register here.
Monday, Nov. 17, 2025, 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, Nov. 19, 2025, 6:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m., Transcription SIG, Join this group will be on transcribing and tagging historical documents. To join or learn more, contact Betsey Cotter, at cotterbetsey@gmail.com.
Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2025, 7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m., NEW! Write It Up! SIG (Virtual), Join this group to share and discuss writing projects, resources, and ideas. To join or learn more, contact Sheyna Watkins at sgsWriteItUpSIG@seagensoc.org.
Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025, 7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m., SGS Quarterly Program Planning (Virtual), be a part of SGS’s strategic planning effort, collaborate with the leaders of our education programs (e.g., SIGs, field trips, classes, seminars, discussion groups). Register here.
Friday, Nov. 21, 2025, 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, Nov. 24, 2025, 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, Nov. 25, 2025, 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.
Monday, Dec. 1, 2025, 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, Dec. 1, 2025, 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, Dec. 3, 2025, 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, Dec. 4, 2025, 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, Dec. 6, 2025, 10:00 a.m.- 12:30 p.m., FamilySearch SIG, Discover the many ways to use the FamilySearch website in your research. Meeting includes instruction and time for Q&A. Email SGSFamilySearchSIG@seagensoc.org to join the mailing list. NOTE: New starting time!
Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, 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, Dec. 8, 2025, 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, Dec. 8, 2025, 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, Dec. 9, 2025, 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.
Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2025, 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, Dec. 10, 2025, 6:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m., Behind the Books: A Conversation with SGS Authors (in person), Join us for an evening of stories, discoveries, and inspiration as SGS authors Susan McKee, Jill Morelli and Carolyn Schott share their research adventures, writing choices, and creative sparks that shaped their books.
Thursday, Dec. 11, 2025, 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, Nov. 8,2025, 1:00 p.m-2:30 p.m., Second Saturday, “Cataloging Digital Images” Presented by Nancy Loe. Register here.
OUR NEIGHBORS AND BEYOND Fiske Library Classes, Wednesdays, 10 a.m. Nov. 5: What the Law Put Asunder: Divorce in America with Sara Cochran Nov. 12: Point of Origin: How to Find Your Ancestral Village with Lisa Vogele Nov. 19: What’s New in Genetic Genealogy with Karin Borgerson Learn more and register “Transcribing My Father-in-law’s Journals,” presented by Helen Edwards Olympia Genealogical Society Thursday, Nov. 13, 6:30 p.m. (virtual)
Helen Edward’s first book, “Dutchy’s Diaries,” is a transcription of journals her father-in-law kept daily up to 1929, providing a compelling first-person perspective on life as a young naval officer and offering valuable insights into naval operations of that era. Learn more and register.
“Translating and Transcribing Documents for Jewish Genealogical Research Using AI,” presented by Thomas MacEntee Jewish Genealogical Society of Washington State Monday, Nov. 10, 7 p.m. (virtual)
Learn how to harness the power of artificial intelligence to assist in translating and transcribing a variety of records used for Jewish genealogical research. Learn more and register.
DONATE TO SGS Your donations represent a significant part of the SGS budget. Your continued generosity helps us increase our financial security and expand our services for everyone. We make it easy for you to contribute appreciated stock from your portfolio. Perhaps you’d like a tax write-off before year end? 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.
November 1, 2025
SGS eNews! comes out the first of every month. contact eNews!
November to Early December 2025 with South King County Genealogical Society
Be in the know! Receive notices for our virtual meetings, as well as 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 discussion and collaboration arena where:
we communicate and share information with each other
other than your email, you are not required to provide personal information
you can unsubscribe at any time
PROGRAM UPDATES
All meetings are online except the in-person Research Group and Genealogy Help at the Auburn, Federal Way, and Renton Highland Libraries
Live transcription (captioning) is available during our Zoom meetings by request
Online meeting participants need to register for SKCGS Zoom meetings. Register at our website skcgs.org. Upon registration, Zoom will send a confirmation email with instructions on joining the meeting.
NOVEMBER – EARLY DECEMBER 2024 MEETINGS & EVENTS
Saturday 1 November, 10–2am: Family Tree Maker Users Group (Online). Topic: Question & Answer.
Tuesday 4 November, 6:30pm: SKCGS Board Meeting (Online). All SKCGS Members are invited; write to Board@skcgs.org for the Zoom link.
Friday 7 November, 12:30–2:30pm: German Interest Group (Online, EGS).
Topic: Civil Marriage in Germany in the 19th Century.
Presenter Roland Geiger discusses civil marriages in Germany using examples to illustrate the content of the records and the information that can be gleaned from them. Register: https://gig.eastsidegenealogicalsociety.org/meetings
Monday 10 November,⋅1–2pm: Genetic Genealogy/DNA Interest Group (Online).
Topic: Analyzing Your DNA Matches when the Site Tools Aren’t Helping. Let’s share tactics and ideas.
Thursday 13 November,11am–1pm: Genealogy Help with SKCGS at Renton Highlands Library (In-person). No registration required.
Genealogy questions? SKCGS offers one-on-one help with a volunteer: 2801 NE 10th Street, Renton WA
Saturday 15 November,10am: SKCGS Speaker Series (Online). 9:30am– 10am: Social time;sign in early to chat. 10am: Featured speaker presentation: Mags Gaulden presents “WikiTree’s DNA Features, With A Splash of mitoYDNA.org“
Mags co-leads the DNA integrators team at WikiTree, a collaborative global family tree. Working to improve DNA functionality on WikiTree and integrations with outside sites, she has helped to make WikiTree and its DNA features accessible and available to all collaborative genealogists.
As a sought-after international speaker and workshop coordinator, Mags continues to share her expertise on various topics related to genetic genealogy and family history research. Her talks are known for their easy flow of technical terminology and knowledge, combined with a down-home, relaxed, humorous style that connects with audiences.
She is a member of the International Society of Genetic Genealogy, among other organizations. Her passion for family history and her expertise in genetics and genealogy have helped many people uncover their family histories and connect with their roots.
Mags Gaulden is a genetic genealogist based in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. She has dedicated decades to researching family histories and exploring the role of genetics in genealogy. Born and raised in the United States, Mags developed an early interest in family history and genealogy. She started researching her family tree, which led her to discover the power of genetic testing in genealogy.
Mags is the founder of Grandma’s Genes in Ottawa and mitoYDNA.org, a free and accessible Y and mitochondrial DNA database for the genealogy community. The non-profit organization is a 501(c) 3 based in Maryland.
Monday 17 November, 1–2pm: Tech Users Group (Online).
Topic: How to add & use browser extensions for genealogy.
Thursday 20 November, 11am–1pm: Genealogy Help with SKCGS at the Auburn Library (In-person). No registration required.
Genealogy questions? SKCGS offers one-on-one help with a volunteer: 1102 Auburn Way S, Auburn, WA.
Thursday 20 November, 2–4pm. Genealogy Help with SKCGS at the Federal Way Main Library (In-person). No registration required.
Genealogy questions? SKCGS offers one-on-one help with a volunteer: 34200 1st Way S, Federal Way, WA
Monday 24 November, 1–2pm: Genealogy Chat (Online). Meet up and chat about genealogy subjects and topics.
We have no agenda; we just like one another!
Tuesday 2 December, 6:30pm (Online) SKCGS Board Meeting if necessary. All SKCGS Members are invited; write to Board@skcgs.org for the Zoom link.
Friday 5 December, 12:30–2:30: German Interest Group (Online, EGS). Anette Isaacs presents “Frohe Weihnachten: Unwrapping the Charms of German Christmas Traditions.” Discover the rich history and cultural significance of Christmas customs and holiday treats.
SKCGS Speaker Series: Monthly on the third Saturday, 10am. Featured speakers:
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!”
20 June 2026: Steven Morrison “Digging Up New Dirt: Part 1 Unearthing the Real New England Immigrant” AND Part 2 “Finding, Proving and Publishing”
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Stay connected! Get updates on our virtual and in-person events, plus the latest genealogy news and tips, by subscribing (free) to the online group at https://skcgs.groups.io
Skcgs.groups.io is the SKCGS online platform for discussion and information sharing:
we communicate and share information with each other
other than your email, you are not required to provide personal information
you can unsubscribe or change your email format at any time
PROGRAM UPDATES
All meetings are online except the in-person Research Group and Genealogy Help at KCLS Auburn, Federal Way, and Renton Highland library branches.
Live transcription (captioning) is available during our Zoom meetings by request
Online meeting participants need to register for SKCGS Zoom meetings. Upon registration, Zoom will send a confirmation email with instructions on joining the meeting.
Topic:Germans to America’s Midwest, 1848-1900. Presenter Scott Norrick examines why so many Germans were leaving their homeland during this period and why so many settled in America’s Midwest.Additional information can be found on our Meetings page.
Saturday 4 October 10–11am (online)
Family Tree Maker Users Group
Topic: Question & Answer. Each month, we learn about using the features of FTM.
Thursday 9 October, 11am–1pm: Genealogy Help with SKCGS at Renton Highlands Library (In-person). Genealogy questions? SKCGS offers one-on-one help with a volunteer: 2801 NE 10th Street, Renton WA. Registration not required. In-person event. More information at King County Library: email jwooten@kcls.org
Monday 13 October, 1–2pm
Genetic Genealogy/DNA Interest Group (Online).
Topic: What’s New at MyHeritage DNA; Cousin Finder and more.
Thursday 16 October, 11am–1pm: Genealogy Help with SKCGS at the Auburn Library (In-person) Genealogy questions? SKCGS offers one-on-one help with a volunteer. 1102 Auburn Way S, Auburn, WA. Registration not required. In-person event. Safety guidelines and current protocols followed. More information at King County Library, email kcls-auburn@kcls.org
Thursday 16 October, 2–4pm: Genealogy Help with SKCGS at the Federal Way Main Library (In-person). Genealogy questions? SKCGS offers one-on-one help with a volunteer. 34200 1st Way S, Federal Way, WA. Registration not required. In-person event. Safety guidelines and current protocols followed. More information at King County Library: https://kcls.org/locations/federal-way, or phone: (253) 838-3668.
Friday 17 October, 1–3pm: Research Workshop. For SKCGS Members only: In-person research at the Kent FamilySearch Center, 12817 SE 256th St, Kent, WA. RSVP in advance to Winona Laird (253) 631-3252
Saturday, 18 October, 9:30 am social time; 10am (online)
SKCGS Speaker Series: Craig K Gowens presents “The Border Reivers: The Beginnings of America’s Scotch-Irish.”
One of the most influential migrations in the early settlement of America was that of the Scots who came via Ulster. Many of these migrants were descendants of the Border Reivers; families who had lived for centuries on both sides of the Anglo-Scottish frontier until many were banished to Ulster in the early 17th century for their relentless raiding. This presentation explores the history of the Borderlands, the culture of reiving, and how these people were transformed from feared raiders into reluctant settlers. In America, their descendants became known as the Scotch-Irish, carving out a distinct cultural identity in the Appalachian backcountry. They left a lasting imprint on American history, westward expansion, and national character, producing many notable figures along the way. Meanwhile, in Britain, the 19th century Romantic movement reimagined the Border Reivers through historical romances, ballads, and folklore, recasting a turbulent past into legend.
Craig got his start in genealogy in the mid 1980’s helping his father when he began researching his side of the family. They spent many hours in the library poring over census and land records, visiting cemeteries and libraries to build their tree back further. Eventually Craig started working on his mother’s side of the family. In 2014, he took his first steps into the world of DNA, testing four relatives to reveal the Y-DNA line of all four grandparents’ families. As autosomal testing became less expensive, he dove in testing as many relatives as were willing, numbering over 4 dozen testers now, some tested at multiple companies.
The Tech Users Group is for sharing knowledge and learning about technology tools, media, apps and websites. Join our free email group: https://skcgs.groups.io/g/TUG.
Monday 27 October, 1–2pm
Genealogy Chat (Online)
Meet up and chat about genealogy subjects and topics. We have no agenda; we just like one another!
Saturday 1 November, 10–2am
Family Tree Maker Users Group (Online)
Topic: Question & Answer. Each month, we learn about using the features of FTM.
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.
OCTOBER 4 – SATURDAYHQRL BoothProctor Farmers Market 9 am to 2 pm Corner of N. 27th St. &, N Proctor St, Tacoma, WA 98407
OCTOBER 11 – SATURDAYHQRL BoothCider Squeeze at Meeker Mansion 10 am to 3 pm 312 Spring Street, Puyallup, WA 98372 We can always use volunteers at our booths to share enthusiasm for ourgenealogy library – stop by!
OCTOBER 15 – WEDNESDAYManagement Team Meeting 12 noon – 1 pm Heritage Quest Research Library Classroom —– All members are invited to attend —–
October 16 – ThursdayBeginning Your Family History, Getting Started (Classroom & Zoom) FREE 11 am to 12 noon This class will be taught by our Education Coordinator, Heidi Geiss. Learn how HQRL can help you with your family research. Whether a beginning researcher or a seasoned veteran, this class is for you. Learning or reviewing the basics can help you get on track or get back on track. There are always useful take aways, even if you have been researching for years. You can attend the class in one of two ways – In Person at the HQRL Classroom or by ZOOM To sign up to attend the class in person Call the library at 253-863-1806 or stop by the library Advantages of attending this class in the classroom Additional staff will be there to provide one-on-one assistance An after-class discussion period provides attendees extra time to discuss the class It is an opportunity for sharing information, asking questions and getting feedback from other researchers Provides access to Library resources and the bookstore ORTo sign up using ZOOM Online, go to hqrl.com Scroll down the menu on the left side of the page to HQRL Store Select the box labeled “2025 classroom and ZOOM” Then select the class Beginning Your Family History, Getting Started On the right-hand side is a box labeled “add to cart” Click this box and then select “checkout”
REMEMBER THIS CLASS IS FREE>>>>>>>>>> HEADS UP <<<<<<<<<<Heritage Quest Research Library will be open onSunday,November 910 am – 4 pmOur regular scheduled days are Monday through Saturday and closed on Sunday. Many of you can’t come to the Library on weekdays or Saturdays. This special opening gives you the opportunity to visit the library to jump start your research, work on one of those brick walls, or gather historical information that can make your family history come to life. It may be helpful to make a research plan for the day to get the most out of your searching.Hope to see you November 9
October Bookstore Specials (These Books 50% Off) The Hidden Half Of The Family By Christina Kassabian Schaefer This book addresses the difficult task of finding women in traditional genealogical record sources. The first part of the book deals with the special ways women are dealt with in federal records such as immigration records, passports, naturalization records, census enumerations, land records, military records, and records dealing with minorities. The bulk of this reference work, however, deals with the individual states, showing how their laws, records, and resources can be used in determining female identity. Regular Price $35.25, October Special Price $17.62 Preserving our Family Photographs By Maureen A. Taylor Maureen A. Taylor, author of Family Photo Detective, provides all the information you need to care for your family photograph collection. She outlines in straightforward steps how to add value to your home collection using the methods that conservators and photo curators use everyday! Do today what may be too late to do tomorrow. Preserve your family photographs now—and capture memories that will last a lifetime. Regular Price $24.50, October Special Price $12.25 The Family Tree Historical Atlas of American Cities 1800-1920 By Allison Dolan Explore your ancestors’ hometowns! This book guides you through American history by looking at the United States’ sixteen most populous and historically influential cities…. Whether your family hails from the streets of Brooklyn or the hills of San Francisco, this atlas–designed especially for genealogists–will help you better understand your city-dwelling ancestors. Features include: More than 130 full-color historical maps of sixteen important cities, including New York, Houston, Philadelphia, and Los Angeles Timelines highlighting the most important moments in each city’s history Lists of city-specific genealogy websites and resources for records that will help you discover your family history An index with instructions on viewing online versions of each map, allowing you to zoom in for more detail or use them with programs like Google Earth You’ll also discover easy genealogy research tips for finding local birth, marriage, and death records; federal and state censuses; and city directories Regular Price $22.75, October Special Price $ 11.37
A Talk & Walking Tour of Calvary Cemetery, Oct. 25Join us on Saturday, Oct. 25, at 1 p.m. at Calvary Cemetery in Seattle for a rare opportunity to step behind the scenes of one of our region’s most historic Catholic cemeteries.
Our guide will be Marty Murphy, Superintendent of Calvary Cemetery, who will share insights from his decades of cemetery management. This special program combines a fascinating talk with a guided walking tour, covering:
The History of Calvary Cemetery and other Catholic cemeteries in the Seattle area
The Evolution of Grave Markers and what they reveal about cultural and religious traditions
Genealogy in Cemeteries—how to access and use cemetery records in your family history research
A Superintendent’s Perspective—stories and experiences from caring for this historic Seattle site
Whether you’re the family historian or simply curious about Seattle’s past, this event offers a unique chance to connect with the people and stories that shaped our community’s history.
Don’t miss this meaningful blend of history, heritage, and personal storytelling—right here in Seattle’s historic Calvary Cemetery.
Optional lunch gathering to follow at University Village location nearby.
Pre-registration required. $15 and $10 for SGS members. Limited to 25 people.
stock photo of a cemetery courtesy Rodion Kutsaiev / Unsplash GET READY FOR SGS FALL SEMINAR
Focus to Be Using DNA and AI
Join SGS and Blaine Bettinger, “The Genetic Genealogist,” Saturday–Sunday, Oct. 11–12 for an exciting weekend of learning. The four sessions will be spread out over two days to maximize your learning. The seminar runs Saturday morning Sept. 11 from 9 a.m. to noon and picks up again on Sunday afternoon from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Using Autosomal DNA for 18th and 19th Century Mysteries
Sprinters, Caffeine Addicts, and Daredevils! Understanding DNA-Based Traits
Are You Doing Everything?
Presentations will be recorded and available (only) to registrants for a limited time.
Dr. Blaine Bettinger is a professional genealogist specializing in DNA evidence and the use of artificial intelligence for genealogical research. He is the author of the long-running blog, The Genetic Genealogist and frequently gives presentations and webinars to educate others about the use of DNA and artificial intelligence.
photos courtesy Francis Odeyemi, Kamila Maciejewska and Maud Beauregard / Unsplash STILL TIME TO JOIN BEGINNING GENEALOGY CLASS
Classes Begin Oct. 15 and 16
Motivated 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 October. This online course will give you the tools to succeed in your research.
Four weekly online sessions are included 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.
photos courtesy Paola Aguilar and Florida Memory / Unsplash and Library of Congress
SGS MEMBERS ENJOY MOHAI TOURSGS field trips returned with gusto this month following our summer break. Our tour of the Museum of History and Industry (MOHAI) on South Lake Union, led by Ian Siporin, was stimulating, engaging, and just plain fun!
Our group met for lunch beforehand on the outdoor terrace of the museum café. We chatted about genealogy and family history in the Washington area, back into the time when it was still a territory. This relaxing social time before our tour was such a bonus to our visit. These in-person interactions are precious opportunities to connect with Society members.
The tour itself was enjoyably interactive. Our guide encouraged us to share our stories and knowledge alongside the history and information he provided. It was an excellent opportunity for those with roots in Washington to offer perspectives and additional context from their family research.
Many thanks to all who attended and a big thank you to Ian and the MOHAI for the excellent tour.
SGS has more exciting tours planned. See the feature article above for information about the upcoming Calvary Cemetery Tour.
DISCOVER THE STORIES OF JEWISH FAMILIES IN SEATTLE’S GILDED AGE
Virtual Sunday: Oct. 19, 1 p.m.
Join us for a special presentation by local author, Karen Treiger, whose book Standing on the Crack: The Legacy of Five Jewish Families from Seattle’s Gilded Age was published in August. Blending Pacific Northwest history with deeply personal family narratives, Karen traces the journeys of her ancestors who immigrated from Europe to Seattle and Portland between 1874 and 1913.
Karen was born in Seattle and educated at Barnard College and New York University Law School — where she was editor-in-chief of NYU Law Review. She has been named to the Jewish Book Council Author’s Network, the Seattle Holocaust Center for Humanity Speaker’s Bureau, and served on the University of Washington Advisory Council for the Extension Writing Program.
New Subscription Website for Swedish Records Now Available for Patrons
SGS now offers access to ArkivDigital. ArkivDigital is Sweden’s largest and most extensive online archive of original Swedish records. The website is available to use on a patron computer in the SGS library.
Insights Await in Unique SGS Databases
King County Court Case Index: This is an index of over 1.7 million King County court case records for the period 1881-1980. The index was compiled from title searches conducted by the Chicago Title Insurance Company. These searches were generally for probate, name changes, or changes in marital status involving a change in property ownership.
Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Membership Cards: This is a database of approximately 26,000 original membership cards from 2 Seattle area VFW posts. A typical membership card provides information as shown on the following example:
Approximately 5,600 of these membership cards are available to members on the SGS website.
To request a look-up in the King County Court Case index or the additional 20,000 VFW Cards, contact research@seagensoc.org. The look-up is free to members. For non-members, the look-up fee is $15 per surname. EXPLORING WOMEN’S WORK
Second Saturday: Nov. 8, Noon
Join Dr. Janet Few for an exploration of historical occupations—especially those of women—both paid and unpaid. From lace making and straw plaiting to other female-dominated roles, she’ll discuss working conditions, tools, and hazards. Though examples are drawn from England, the insights apply broadly to researching women’s work in the past.
Note: This presentation will begin one hour earlier than usual to accommodate Dr. Janet Few, who will be joining us from England.
Dr. Janet Few earned her Ph.D. in Community History and is an experienced family, social and community historian. She has written several books of interest to genealogists and contributes to family history journals. Janet is currently serving as the president of the Family History Federation. She is heavily involved in the work of family history societies and was awarded the Society of Genealogists certificate of recognition in 2020 for her work.
Members Sought for SGS-SPL Pilot ProjectThe SGS Board and the Seattle Public Library have agreed to a pilot project bringing genealogy volunteers to branch libraries. This not only shares our genealogy skills with the public who visit their neighborhood library but also introduces more people to SGS and our Special Interest Groups, classes and Library resources. We need 10-15 volunteers to sit in one of three SPL branch libraries and answer genealogy questions from library patrons. SGS members will work in teams of two people on specific weekday afternoons. You should have at least intermediate level research skills. Training will be provide by SPL staff. Email
Always check the SGS Website Calendar of Events for the meeting links, registration, or for last minute updates or changes to the schedule. Be advised you may need to register in advance to join a meeting.
All times listed are Pacific Time unless otherwise noted
Thursday, Oct. 2, 2025, 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, Oct. 4, 2025, 10:00 a.m.- 12:30 p.m., FamilySearch SIG, Discover the many ways to use the FamilySearch website in your research. Meeting includes instruction and time for Q&A. Email SGSFamilySearchSIG@seagensoc.org to join the mailing list. NOTE: New starting time!
Sunday, Oct. 5, 2025, 1:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m., DNA Workshop, with Cary Bright and Craig Gowens. To participate you need to be on the SGS DNA Interest Group email list. Contact Cary Bright at sgsdnasig@seagensoc.org to join.
Monday, Oct. 6, 2025, 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, Oct. 6, 2025, 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, Oct. 9, 2025, 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, Oct. 11–12, 2025, 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m., SGS 2025 Fall Seminar with Blaine Bettinger, Join SGS for a four seminars focused on using DNA to solve family mysteries. Register now.
Monday, Oct. 13, 2025, 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, Oct. 13, 2025, 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, Oct. 14, 2025, 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
Tuesday, Oct. 14, 2025, 6:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m., NEW-ish! 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, Oct. 15, 2025, 6:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m., SGS Library Evening Hours, Come by and join host, Lisa Oberg, for a quiet, comfortable place to work on your genealogy research. Every 3rd Wednesday of the month
Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2025, 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, Oct. 19, 2025, 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, Oct. 18, 2025, 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, Oct 21, 2025, 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, Oct. 19, 2025, 1:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m., Scandinavian Interest Group SIG (Virtual), Share information and discuss Scandinavian ancestral research. Swedish research with examples of researching on Arkivdigital ($) and Riksarkivet (free). Register here. NOTE: Change of date this month only.
Sunday, Oct. 19, 2025, 1:00 pm- 2:00 pm, Virtual Sunday: Jewish Families in Seattle, 1874–1913 (Virtual), Join Karen Treiger as she traces her ancestors who immigrated from Europe to Seattle and Portland between 1874 and 1913. Register here.
Monday, Oct. 20, 2025, 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, Oct. 22, 2025, 7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m., Mexican SIG (Virtual), Share information and discuss Indigenous North American, Spanish, Cuban, and Hispanic genealogical research. Email Diane Hughes-Hart at SGSMexSIG@seagensoc.org to join.
Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025, 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. Email SGSDNASIG@seagensoc.org to join.
Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025, 1:00 p.m., Calvary Cemetery Tour (Field Trips), Discover the Stories Beneath the Stones: A Talk & Walking Tour of Calvary Cemetery. Registration fee: $15 (SGS Members $10). Register here.
Monday, Oct. 27, 2025, 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, Oct. 28, 2025, 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.
Thursday, Oct. 30 2025, 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.
Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025, 10:00 a.m.- 12:30 p.m., FamilySearch SIG, Discover the many ways to use the FamilySearch website in your research. Meeting includes instruction and time for Q&A. Email SGSFamilySearchSIG@seagensoc.org to join the mailing list
. NOTE: New starting time!
Sunday, Nov. 2, 2025, 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, Nov. 3, 2025, 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, Nov. 3, 2025, 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, Nov. 5, 2025, 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, Nov. 6, 2025, 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, Nov. 8,2025, noon-1:30 p.m., Second Saturday, “Women at Work” Presented by Dr. Janet Few. Register here.M
Monday, Nov. 10, 2025, 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, Nov. 10, 2025, 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, Nov. 11, 2025, 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.
Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2025, 6:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m., NEW-ish! 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 Library Classes, Wednesdays, 10 a.m.
Oct. 8: An Introduction – to Find My Past Records with Steven W. Morrison
Oct. 15: Adoption Meets DNA with Beth Swartz
Oct. 22: If These Walls Could Talk – House and Neighborhood Histories with Mary Kircher Roddy
Oct. 29: Ancestors Calling: Science, Synchronicity and Sources with Judy Nimer Muhn
Nov. 5: What the Law Put Asunder: Divorce in America with Sara Cochran
Nov. 12: Point of Origin: How to Find Your Ancestral Village with Lisa Vogele
Nov. 19: What’s New in Genetic Genealogy with Karin Borgerson
“Western Trails Following the Seven Ts,” presented by Steven W. Morrison Columbia Gorge Genealogical Society Saturday, Oct. 4, 1 p.m. (virtual)
This presentation explores the historical significance, unique challenges, and enduring legacies of the Oregon, California, Mormon, Santa Fe, Old Spanish, Bozeman, and Pony Express trails, revealing how they shaped the nation’s expansion and the lives of those who dared to traverse them. Learn more and register here.“
“Hiding in Plain Sight: Finding Elusive Ancestors with FamilySearch’s Full-Text Search,” presented by Julia A. Anderson Genealogical Forum of Oregon Saturday, October 18, 2:30 p.m. (virtual)
FamilySearch’s powerful new Full-Text Search tool is unlocking billions of previously unsearchable records – revealing names, places, and stories hidden deep within digitized documents. In this class, you’ll learn how to use this groundbreaking feature to uncover ancestors who’ve slipped through the cracks. Discover smart search strategies, see real-life examples, and leave with practical tips to apply to your own research. Learn more and register.
“Finding Ancestors in the 19th Century Russian Revizskie skazki,” presented by Hal Bookbinder Jewish Genealogical Society of Washington State Monday, October 13, 7 p.m. (virtual)
The Russian Revizskie skazki can be a gold mine in finding information about our ancestors. “Revizskie skazki” literally means “revision tales,” though we generally refer to them as “revision lists.” While censuses only provide information on people currently alive, revision lists include “tales” about the men who died or moved away since the prior revision list. Presenter Hal Bookbinder will provide an overview of the periodic revision lists and demonstrate how he was able to use the 1850 and 1858 ones to identify ancestors, including those who lived earlier, and even to creatively use the information to get back an extra generation or two where no records exist. Learn more and register.
* to renew your membership: log in on the Members Home page and click the green renew membership button.
DONATE TO SGS
Your donations represent a significant part of the SGS budget. Your continued generosity helps us increase our financial security and expand our services for everyone. We make it easy for you to contribute appreciated stock from your portfolio. Perhaps you’d like a tax write-off before year end? 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.
Don’t Miss Out… Sign Up Here for Sept. 18th Class!Citing Your Sources: It’s Easier Than You Think! September 18, 2025 11am to 12pm PDT(Online only via Zoom) Do you find the process of writing source citations intimidating? Citation resources published by leading genealogists tend to be lengthy and differ in their approaches. Trying to use and reconcile them can feel overwhelming. This presentation will explain the process of creating source citations that comply with genealogical standards in plain language. Learn some simple strategies for crafting clear, reliable citations for many commonly-used sources. CLICK HERE TO SIGN-UP Shelley Bishop is a professional genealogical researcher, writer, and speaker with a passion for finding and preserving the stories of our ancestors. She is a frequent contributor to Family Tree Magazine, NGS Magazine, and other publications. As the owner of Buckeye Family Trees, Shelley specializes in Ohio and midwestern research. Her projects often involve work with military, court, and land records. Shelley is President of the Great Lakes Chapter of the Association of Professional Genealogists and a member of the Genealogical Speakers Guild. Learn more about her at www.buckeyefamilytrees.com. UPCOMING CLASSES! Check them out!Beginning Your Family History,Getting Started October 16, 2025 11am to 12pm PDT Online via ZOOM or Limited In Person (8) at HQRL LEARN MORE HERE! or SIGN UP HERE! Inspiring the Next Generationof GenealogistsNovember 6, 202511am to 12pm PDT LEARN MORE HERE! HomeAbout UsMembersGalleryNewsletter Heritage Quest Research Library 2102 East Main Avenue, Suite 105 Puyallup, WA 98372 (253) 863-1806
Break down your genealogy brick walls. Learn techniques to evaluate your sources, mine all of the clues, find the context, and discover your ancestor’s neighbors and friends. Get out of your comfort zone and make progress.
Wednesday, September 24
10:00 am to 11:15 am Pacific Time – Fiske Genealogical Library, Seattle (Virtual Class)
Chasing Claire: The Treasures of Genealogical Travel
Learn about how chasing one ancestor can lead to travel across multiple states, new friendships, and literally getting your hands dirty while doing genealogy! Plus tips for making the most of genealogical travel.
Wednesday, October 1
10:00 am to 11:15 am Pacific Time – Fiske Genealogical Library, Seattle (Virtual Class)
Findmypast (FMP) is a subscription website and is one of the BIG FIVE genealogical companies. Across the pond, it partners with several family history organizations, major libraries and archives. As a result, some of its British and Irish records are unique, and unavailable on other genealogy websites. Presented in a case study format.
Wednesday, October 15
10:00 am to 11:15 am Pacific Time – Fiske Genealogical Library, Seattle (Virtual Class)
I don’t know of many genealogists who aren’t also historians. It’s in our natures to be curious of what went on before, to understand our family’s history – but it’s also interesting to learn more about that place where we spend our daily lives – our homes. Who was here before me? How might they have used this home? What tales did they bring home from their work or school at the end of the day? Who were their neighbors? Has my house always looked this way? Learning about your house and neighborhood can increase your sense of place and help you to connect on a deeper level with that place you call “Home.”
(After Mary’s talk, bring stories of any “hauntings” related to a particular place in your family history!)
Wednesday, October 29
10:00 am to 11:15 am Pacific Time – Fiske Genealogical Library, Seattle (Virtual Class)
Ancestors Calling: Science, Synchronicity and Sources
Our ancestors want us to find them! Using our intuition, developing our luck, creating vision boards and using classic detective techniques, YOU can have their help and do thorough genealogical research. Learn how to tap into some key scientific principles and hands-on techniques to drive your discoveries.
Wednesday, November 5
10:00 am to 11:15 am Pacific Time – Fiske Genealogical Library, Seattle (Virtual Class)
Historically, divorce in the United States was rare, but not unheard of. This class considers changing laws and social attitudes as they relate to marriage and divorce, how those laws and attitudes affect our research and the records, and provides tips for determining if there was a divorce and accessing those records.
Wednesday, November 12
10:00 am to 11:15 am Pacific Time – Fiske Genealogical Library, Seattle (Virtual Class)
Point of Origin: How to Find Your Ancestral Village
Don’t know where overseas your family originated from? This presentation covers a variety of sources to explore to locate your ancestor’s point of origin before arriving in the United States. Examples and strategies will be provided including: resources for locating town of origin, strategies for name changes, tips for boundary changes, and overcoming handwriting & language challenges.
Wednesday, November 19
10:00 am to 11:15 am Pacific Time – Fiske Genealogical Library, Seattle (Virtual Class)
The landscape of genetic genealogy is always shifting. Explore recent updates from DNA testing companies and third-party tools to make the most of DNA for genealogy.
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PROGRAM UPDATES
All meetings are online except Genealogy Help at KCLS Auburn, Federal Way, and Renton Highland library branches.
Live transcription (captioning) is available during our Zoom meetings by request
Online meeting participants need to register for SKCGS Zoom meetings. Upon registration, Zoom will send a confirmation email with instructions on joining the meeting.
Members: passcode for the recording of this month’s speaker presentation is at the bottom of this email.
Monday September 1 is Labor Day. No SKCGS events; KCLS Libraries are closed
Friday, September 5, 2025 from 12:30–2:30pm (online)
EGS German Interest Group
Topic:Using German Genealogy Societies/Special Interest Groups to Break Your Brick WallPresenterAnn Broihier explores some prominent German genealogy societies and special interest groups in the US,plus genealogy groups in Germany. Additional information can be found on our Meetings page.
Saturday September 6, 2025, 10am–12pm
Family Tree Maker Users Group (online)
Topic: Question & Answer. Each month, we will learn about using the features of FTM. Subscribe to the free SKCGS FTM email list for announcements and discussion: https://skcgs.groups.io/g/FTMUG
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
Genealogy Help with SKCGS at Renton Highlands Library (In-person). Genealogy questions? SKCGS offers one-on-one help with a volunteer. 2801 NE 10th Street, Renton WA
Registration not required. In-person event.
Thursday, September 11, 2025, 5–6:30pm
Special meeting of the SKCGS Family Tree Maker User Group with speaker Mark Olsen. Topic: 2024 upgrade of FTM. We all have the new 2024 version and have lots of questions.
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.
Friday, September 19, 1–3pm
Research Workshop (In-person/RSVP req)
SKCGS Members only. In-person research at the Kent FamilySearch Center
12817 SE 256th St, Kent, WA 98030, USA
RSVP in advance to Winona Laird (253) 631-3252
Saturday, September 20, 2025, 9:30am Social time. Speaker:10–11:30am
SKCGS Speaker Series (online)
Writing Your Own Obituary
Your obituary is probably the most important thing that will ever be written about you. So why not write it yourself? Writing an auto-obituary is a way to make sure you’re remembered the way you want to be remembered. Roxanne will share examples and styles of obituaries. You’ll also get started on your own!
Roxanne Lowe is the proud great granddaughter of Washington Pioneers Daniel and Mary (Donovan) Murphy who came to Chehalis County (now Grays Harbor) in 1888. She is the past president of the Grays Harbor Genealogical Society and webmaster of the Washington State Genealogical Society’s website. She was the 2024 recipient of the WSGS President’s Award for Outstanding Achievement. The program will be recorded for playback by SKCGS Members. Guests welcome! Register
Thursday, August 21, 2025, 11am–1pm
Genealogy Help with SKCGS at the Auburn Library (In-person)
Genealogy questions? SKCGS offers one-on-one help with a volunteer. 1102 Auburn Way S, Auburn, WA
Registration not required. In-person event. Safety guidelines and current protocols followed. More information at King County Library, email kcls-auburn@kcls.org
Thursday, August 21, 2025, 2–4pm
Genealogy Help with SKCGS at the Federal Way Main Library (In-person) Genealogy questions? SKCGS offers one-on-one help with a volunteer. 34200 1st Way S, Federal Way, WA 98003
Registration not required. In-person event. Safety guidelines and current protocols followed. More information at King County Library: https://kcls.org/locations/federal-way, or phone: (253) 838-3668
Monday, September 22⋅1–2pm
Genealogy Chat (Online)
Meet up and chat about genealogy subjects and topics. We have no agenda; we just like one another!
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 mailing list, send an email to skcgsfriends+unsubscribe@skcgs.org.
WHAT MYSTERIES MIGHT DNA OR AI HELP YOU SOLVE?This Year’s Speaker, Blaine Bettinger, is a professional Genealogist Specializing in Using DNA and AI Join SGS and Blaine Bettinger Saturday–Sunday, Oct. 11–12 for an exciting weekend of learning. The four sessions will be spread out over two days to maximize your learning
The seminar runs Saturday morning Sept. 11 from 9 a.m. to noon and picks up again on Sunday afternoon from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. DNA-Based Relationship Estimators & Analyzers [NEW] Using Autosomal DNA for 18th and 19th Century Mysteries Sprinters, Caffeine Addicts, and Daredevils! Understanding DNA-Based Traits Are You Doing Everything? Presentations will be recorded and available (only) to registrants for a limited time.
Dr. Blaine Bettinger is a professional genealogist specializing in DNA evidence and the use of artificial intelligence for genealogical research. He is the author of the long-running blog, The Genetic Genealogist and frequently gives presentations and webinars to educate others about the use of DNA and artificial intelligence.Sign Up Now!photos courtesy Francis Odeyemi, Kamila Maciejewska and Maud Beauregard / UnsplashTOUR THE MOHAI ATRIUM WITH SGSAfter a summer break, SGS field trips return with a tour of the atrium at the Museum of History and Industry. Join SGS at 1:30 p.m. on Sept. 16 for this exciting look at Seattle’s history.
A museum guide will utilize several of the largest artifacts in the atrium to trace some of the tensions and contradictions of expansion and industry in Seattle. This includes a focus on the experiences of working people as the city rapidly grew in the late 19th and 20th centuries.There are 5 stops on the tour with several handouts used as tools for discussion and investigation. The guide will share facts about the artifacts, engage in storytelling, and also have discussion questions for the group. This will be a conversational and active tour, rather than simply lecture based.
Additionally, the tour will include an overview of the kinds of materials in the MOHAI library and collections, as well how to book research time at the library and access online collections.
Optional lunch at noon at the Lakefront Pavilion (the museum café, which is to the left of the admissions desk, past the museum store). Bring your own lunch or purchase from the café’s menu.
Registration fee: $30 non-members (SGS Members $20)
Limited to 25 participants, so sign up now.Join the TourFOCUS OF SECOND SATURDAY TO BE GERMAN IMMIGRANTSSecond Saturday: Sept 13, 1 p.m.We are excited to welcome back Kimball Carter, CG®, for the opening session of our fall Second Saturday speaker series. Join on Sept. 13, at 1 p.m. as Kimball guides attendees in discovering the places of origin of their German immigrant ancestors. Using U.S. and German records, Kimball will demonstrate practical strategies with case studies that will help advance your research.Kimball Carter, CG® has more than 45 years of family history research experience. A retired graphic artist and creative director, he now volunteers at the FamilySearch Library in Salt Lake City, helping patrons with German ancestry, identifying immigrant hometowns, and Colonial American research. Sign Up Today!Come Early for the Membership Meeting There will be a membership meeting just before the Second Saturday presentation on Sept. 13 at 12:30 p.m. Learn about the America 250 writing contest, updates on our new website and more.photos courtesy Roman Kraft / Unsplash, Library of Congress, David Rumsey Map Collection, David Rumsey Map Center, Stanford Libraries and location icon created by kmg design / FlaticonWSGS HONORS SGS’S CEIL ROGERSCecellia Rogers The Washington State Genealogical Society named Cecellia Rogers one of their outstanding volunteers of 2025. This award honors individuals and teams who contribute to Washington State’s local genealogical societies. The announcement was made on Aug. 21, at the WSGS Annual Meeting. Seventeen local society members and two teams were recognized. The volunteers and teams were praised for their commitment and energies to promote their local societies, family history and cooperation in their local communities.
Rogers has been researching her family history for more than 50 years. She joined SGS in 2017 soon after moving to the Seattle area and has served SGS in various leadership roles over the years including Director of Volunteers and Director of Education. Rogers leads four of SGS’s special interest groups including Brags & Bricks, Tech Tuesdays, Ancestry Users and the FamilySearch groups. In addition to her leadership roles she works behind the scenes updating SGS’s website calendar of events and the society’s Zoom and Vimeo accounts.
SGS President Kathy Weber applauded Roger’s contributions. “I am so grateful for Ceil’s dedication to SGS. Under her 3+ years as our Director of Education, we started recording many presentations so our members could watch them later and we greatly expanded our SIG offerings.”
Rogers is a member of the Association of Professional Genealogists.HELP SPL PATRONS RESEARCH THEIR FAMILIESVolunteers Sought for SGS-SPL Pilot ProjectThe SGS Board and the Seattle Public Library have agreed to a pilot project bringing genealogy volunteers to branch libraries. This not only shares our genealogy skills with the public who visit their neighborhood library but also introduces more people to SGS and our Special Interest Groups, classes and Library resources. We need 10-15 volunteers to sit in one of three SPL branch libraries and answer genealogy questions from library patrons. SGS volunteers will work in teams of two people on specific weekday afternoons. You should have at least intermediate level research skills. Training will be provide by SPL staff. Email splvolunteers@seagensoc.org.
NEW BEGINNING GENEALOGY CLASS STARTS IN OCTOBERMotivated 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 October. This online course will give you the tools to succeed in your research.
Four weekly online sessions are included 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: Morning class: Wednesdays, Oct. 15, 22, 29 and Nov. 5, 10:00-11:30 p.m. Evening class: Thursdays, Oct. 16, 23, 30 and Nov. 6, 7:00-8:30 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).Join the ClassJOURNEY BACK IN TIME TO THE YUKON GOLD RUSHVirtual Sunday: Sept 21, 1 p.m.SGS’s Virtual Sunday presentation will take attendees back to the days of the Klondike Gold Rush in Canada’s Yukon territory. Local author Steve Lundin will share the compelling true story of two Ivy League friends who left Cornell Law School in 1898 in pursuit of gold. Based on the experiences of Lundin’s grandfather, Mark Odell, and his college friend Ellis Aldridge, this tale follows their harrowing journey to the gold fields—through illness, hardship, homesickness, and the long, dark winter of 1898–99 in a remote cabin near Fort Selkirk on the Yukon River. Steve Lundin is a retired attorney, historian, and author with a passion for uncovering and preserving the stories of the past. His most recent book brings personal insight and scholarly depth to the exploration of the Yukon Gold Rush.Register Here
SGS CALENDAR OF EVENTSGood Shepherd Center, Suite 302 4649 Sunnyside Ave N Seattle, WA 98103 206 522-8658Hours : Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday ** 10:00 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. All times listed are Pacific Time unless otherwise noted
Monday, Sept. 1, 2025, 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, Sept. 1, 2025, 7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m., NEW-ish! 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, Sept. 3, 2025, 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, Sept. 4, 2025, 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, Sept 6, 2025, 10:00 a.m.- 12:30 p.m., FamilySearch SIG, Discover the many ways to use the FamilySearch website in your research. Meeting includes instruction and time for Q&A. Email SGSFamilySearchSIG@seagensoc.org to join the mailing list. NOTE: New starting time!
Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, 1:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m., DNA Workshop, with Cary Bright and Craig Gowens. To participate you need to be on the SGS DNA Interest Group email list. Contact Cary Bright at sgsdnasig@seagensoc.org to join.
Monday, Sept. 8, 2025, 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, Sept. 8, 2025, 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, Sept. 9, 2025, 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.
Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2025, 6:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m., NEW! 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, Sept. 10, 2025, 7:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m., MAC Computer SIG, Jointly sponsored by SGS and Fiske. Meetings address topics and resources for Macintosh (Apple) computers and the Reunion genealogy software program. A link to login will be sent to the MAC SIG email list. If you would like to join, send an email to macusersig@seagensoc.org to be added to the email list.
Thursday, Sept. 11, 2025, 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, June 14, 2025, 12:30 p.m.-1:00 p.m., General Membership Meeting, Update on SGS activities and results of the election of SGS officers. The meeting will be followed by the postponed Second Saturday presentation (see entry below). Register here.
Saturday, Sept. 14,2025, 1:00 p.m.-2:30 p.m., Second Saturday, “German Immigrants” Presented by Kimball Carter, CG. Register here.
Monday, Sept. 15, 2025, 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, Sept. 17, 2025, 6:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m., SGS Library Evening Hours, Come by and join host, Lisa Oberg, for a quiet, comfortable place to work on your genealogy research. Every 3rd Wednesday of the month.
Wednesday, Sept. 17, 2025, 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, Sept 19, 2025, 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, Sept. 20, 2024, 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.
Sunday, Sept 21, 2023, 1:00 pm- 2:00 pm, Virtual Sunday: Something Old, Something New, Yukon Gold Rush (Virtual), with Steve Lundin. Join us for the compelling true story of Lundin’s grandfather as he journeyed to the gold fields of the Yukon. Register here.
Monday, Sept. 22, 2025, 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, Sept. 23, 2025, 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.
Wednesday, Sept. 24, 2025, 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.
Monday, Sept. 29, 2025, 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, Oct. 1, 2025, 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, Oct. 2, 2025, 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, Oct. 4, 2025, 10:00 a.m.- 12:30 p.m., FamilySearch SIG, Discover the many ways to use the FamilySearch website in your research. Meeting includes instruction and time for Q&A. Email SGSFamilySearchSIG@seagensoc.org to join the mailing list. NOTE: New starting time!
Sunday, Oct. 5, 2025, 1:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m., DNA Workshop, with Cary Bright and Craig Gowens. To participate you need to be on the SGS DNA Interest Group email list. Contact Cary Bright at sgsdnasig@seagensoc.org to join.
Monday, Oct. 6, 2025, 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, Oct. 6, 2025, 7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m., NEW-ish! 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, Oct. 9, 2025, 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, Oct. 11–12, 2025, 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m., SGS 2025 Fall Seminar with Blaine Bettinger, Join SGS for a four seminars focused on using DNA to solve family mysteries. Register now.
OUR NEIGHBORS AND BEYOND “Help! Part 3.25 – I Got My Y-DNA & mtDNA Results…What Do I Do Now?” Jewish Genealogical Society of Washington State, Monday, September 8, 2025, 7:00 p.m. (meeting opens at 6:30 p.m.)
Join JGSWS for an interesting and practical webinar on how to use mtDNA and Y-DNA in genealogy research. Gil Bardige will help attendees understand DNA results and matches at a beginner and intermediate level. This session will be especially useful for people who have tested at Family Tree DNA. Bardige will also recommend which tests to take and whether to upgrade an older test. Learn more and register.
“Probate Records: Wills and a Whole Lot More.” North Carolina Genealogical Society Wednesday, September 3, 2025, 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. PDT
Join the North Carolina Genealogical Society and Annette Burke Lyttle, CG® for this free online session focusing on estate records. Learn more and register.“Researching Oregon Trail Ancestors” Olympia Genealogical Society Thursday, September 11, 2025, 7:00 p.m.
From 1840 to 1869, more than 50,000 people traveled to Oregon on the Oregon Trail. Join Dawn Carlile as she covers resources for researching people and their lives as they made the trek. Learn more.
“Genealogy Week” The Rogue Valley Genealogical Society Monday, Sept. 22 – Saturday, Sept. 27, 2025
You are free to copy articles to any non-commercial web site or message board or printed publication you wish. Don’t bother to ask permission, just do it.
Can’t find fime to do genealogy research during our regular open days – Monday through Saturday? Then here is something just for you! Heritage Quest Research Library will be open Sunday, November 9 10 am – 4 pm Experienced volunteers will be on hand in a friendly, stress-free atmosphere to Answer your questions Help you get your family history organized or back on track Work with you to solve those difficult research challenges Share common interests or stories
Donate a Treasure! Support the Heritage Quest Research Library Holiday Fundraiser. Heritage Quest Research Library is gearing up for our Holiday Bazaar December 1 through December 15, 2025, to raise vital funds for our non-profit genealogy resources, services and community classes. To make this event a success, we are seeking donation of items to be offered for our holiday fundraiser. What We Are Seeking: Handmade crafts & creations Vintage items Holiday decor or collector’s items Fun & unique items for holiday gift giving What you need to know: We will be accepting items beginning November 1 through November 29. A box and instructions will be placed at the reception desk to receive donations each day. Items should be self-priced. However, we reserve the right to adjust prices and reject any items for donation. Unsold items are to be picked up by the donor by December 20. Unsold items will be donated to senior facilities. How Your Donation Helps: HQRL is an all-volunteer library dedicated to helping people in the community and beyond discover and preserve their family history. Your contribution ensures we can provide genealogy databases, offer personal assistance to help others discover their family story, maintain our extensive collection of books and resources, and keep our doors open. Please contact Terry Vaughan at tvaughan4775@outlook.com if you have any questions. Bring your donation to the library between the hours of 10 am-4 pm, Monday through Saturday NOVEMBER 1 – NOVEMBER 29. Thank you for helping us preserve the past for future generations! Sincerely, The HQRL Team November Bookstore Specials (These Books 50% Off)
Second Saturday: Nov. 8, NoonJoin Dr. Janet Few for an exploration of historical occupations—especially those of women—both paid and unpaid. From lacemaking and straw plaiting to other female-dominated roles, she’ll discuss working conditions, tools, and hazards. Though examples are drawn from England, the insights apply broadly to researching women’s work in the past. 
Molly Tarlofsky Tarlofsky shared her enthusiasm for SGS, its people and work. Her tip – especially to those who may be new to genealogy or the Society, or those who have not yet gotten actively involved: “You don’t need to be a pro. It’s an amazingly accomplished group with experts who are welcoming and helpful regardless of your experience. And if you look, you’ll definitely find someone who shares your interests.”
Scott Laing Scott Laing was appointed by the SGS Board to serve as our new Volunteer Chair. Laing has been involved in genealogical research for the past few years and is looking forward to getting more involved with our Society’s activities and connecting with the members. He plans to attend our Beginning Genealogy series to improve his research methodology. His research has led to active participation in the Seattle Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution.
DISCOVER THE STORIES OF JEWISH FAMILIES IN SEATTLE’S GILDED AGE
Shelley Bishop is a professional genealogical researcher, writer, and speaker with a passion for finding and preserving the stories of our ancestors. She is a frequent contributor to Family Tree Magazine, NGS Magazine, and other publications. As the owner of Buckeye Family Trees, Shelley specializes in Ohio and midwestern research. Her projects often involve work with military, court, and land records. Shelley is President of the Great Lakes Chapter of the Association of Professional Genealogists and a member of the Genealogical Speakers Guild. Learn more about her at www.buckeyefamilytrees.com. UPCOMING CLASSES! Check them out! Beginning Your Family History, Getting Started October 16, 2025 11am to 12pm PDT Online via ZOOM or Limited In Person (8) at HQRL
WHAT MYSTERIES MIGHT DNA OR AI HELP YOU SOLVE?This Year’s Speaker, Blaine Bettinger, is a professional Genealogist Specializing in Using DNA and AI
FOCUS OF SECOND SATURDAY TO BE GERMAN IMMIGRANTSSecond Saturday: Sept 13, 1 p.m.We are excited to welcome back Kimball Carter, CG®, for the opening session of our fall Second Saturday speaker series. Join on Sept. 13, at 1 p.m. as Kimball guides attendees in discovering the places of origin of their German immigrant ancestors. Using U.S. and German records, Kimball will demonstrate practical strategies with case studies that will help advance your research.Kimball Carter, CG® has more than 45 years of family history research experience. A retired graphic artist and creative director, he now volunteers at the FamilySearch Library in Salt Lake City, helping patrons with German ancestry, identifying immigrant hometowns, and Colonial American research. 
Cecellia Rogers The Washington State Genealogical Society named Cecellia Rogers one of their outstanding volunteers of 2025. This award honors individuals and teams who contribute to Washington State’s local genealogical societies. The announcement was made on Aug. 21, at the WSGS Annual Meeting. Seventeen local society members and two teams were recognized. The volunteers and teams were praised for their commitment and energies to promote their local societies, family history and cooperation in their local communities.
SGS’s Virtual Sunday presentation will take attendees back to the days of the Klondike Gold Rush in Canada’s Yukon territory. Local author Steve Lundin will share the compelling true story of two Ivy League friends who left Cornell Law School in 1898 in pursuit of gold. Based on the experiences of Lundin’s grandfather, Mark Odell, and his college friend Ellis Aldridge, this tale follows their harrowing journey to the gold fields—through illness, hardship, homesickness, and the long, dark winter of 1898–99 in a remote cabin near Fort Selkirk on the Yukon River. Steve Lundin is a retired attorney, historian, and author with a passion for uncovering and preserving the stories of the past. His most recent book brings personal insight and scholarly depth to the exploration of the Yukon Gold Rush.