Think beyond full names when querying records databases.
Names are useful, but try applying them in different ways. Instead of searching just for the full name of an ancestor try a combination of just an ancestor’s first name with their spouse’s (or other family member’s) first name — with no surnames. This method might help get around spelling irregularities in their last name.
Try searching for an ancestor’s address in a city directory — this method may discover other individuals living at the same address.
Try searching an ancestor’s profession in their community. There may be guilds or other organizations that could give insight into an ancestor’s life — perhaps records of that organization are available.
As more details about an ancestor emerge use those details to explore other possible search queries. These may lead to even more discoveries.
CEMETERY & FUNERAL HOME RESEARCHSecond Saturday: Jan. 10, 1:00 p.m.Join us in welcoming Lisa Gorrell, CG, presenting on researching cemeteries and funeral homes.
This presentation will be broadcast at the SGS library in conjunction with the holiday open house. If you’ve been missing in-person meetings, this is an opportunity to share your thoughts with other members face-to-face.
Lisa Gorrell has been an instructor for a range of genealogy programs, where she has taught intermediate and advanced hands-on courses. She also volunteers with the Contra Costa Historical Society as a board member and archives assistant, and has held leadership roles with both the Contra Costa County and California Genealogical Societies. Additionally, she has led research trips to Salt Lake City for CGS. Sign Up Today!NEXT MONTH’S SECOND SATURDAY: “Lost in Translation: Deciphering Foreign Names, Places, & Documents,” presented by Margaret Fortier. Sign up separately for this event held Feb. 14. Correction:There was a glitch with the Zoom registrations for upcoming events that may affect you.
The Zoom link for the March 14th membership meeting and Second Saturday presentation was provided in error as the registration for the Second Saturday presentations in January and February. The correct links are on the SGS website and provided below for your convenience.
Saturday, January 10, 2026, 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. Cemetery & Funeral Home Research Presented by Lisa Gorrell To view via Zoom, register here.
Saturday, February 14, 2026, 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. Lost in Translation: Deciphering Foreign Names, Places, & Documents Presented by Margaret Fortier To view via Zoom, register here.
Saturday, March 14, 2026, noon March membership meeting and TBA Second Saturday presentation To view via Zoom, register here.
Hope to see you at all three events, and apologies for any inconvenience. image of church cemetery courtesy of Oleg Yudin / Unsplash document images courtesy Library of Congress
GET ORGANIZED WITH HELP FROM SGS CLASSManaging all the information that is collected when recording family history is a challenge. Papers, both physical and digital, accumulate and can be easily lost. To help researchers SGS will be offering an “Organizing for Genealogy” class in February. Through targeted and thoughtful presentations and exercises, instructor Susan McKee will help participants create a system of organization, or adapt their current system, to meet their specific research needs.
Successful organization starts with organizing ourselves. Over the course of four sessions we will look at why and how we research as the foundation of an effective personal organizational system.
Questions about who, what, where, and when we research clarify how best to apply our time, energy, and resources. This enables us to create and maintain a system of organization that best supports our needs as we engage in genealogical research.
Four weekly, two-hour class sessions: Session 1: Organizing Our Self – Our thoughts, actions, time, and space Session 2: Organizing Our System – Paper systems and Digital Systems Session 3: Organizing Our Workflow – Research, Records, and Resources Session 4: Pulling it all together – Developing a tailored organization system Tuesday afternoons from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m., February 3–24, 2026 Online via Zoom Limited to 20 participants Class Fee: $100 (SGS members $80)Sign Up for the Class HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSEJoin Us for Our Annual Holiday CelebrationWith the holiday rush over, let’s celebrate the New Year. Bring cookies to share and say hello to your SGS friends in person at the library. Come early, come late (not too late). Stay and join us for the Second Saturday Zoom presentation at 1pm Catch (or ask for) a demo of library subscriptions and/or equipment Sneak in a little research (It’s World Logic Day!) Celebrate National Dress Up Your Pet Day (but you must leave that rascal at home) Contact Volunteers@seagensoc.org if you would like to help with this event. image courtesy Ksenia Yakovleva / Unsplash UNLOCK THE STORYTELLER INSIDE YOUYear-Long Writer’s Workshop for Genealogical Writing Launching SoonLisa Oberg Have you ever noticed how easy it is to click through hints and match names—yet how hard it can be to write about the discoveries you make and the mysteries you solve? Have you discovered that when you practice a new skill—and get a little coaching from someone more experienced—you get better, faster, and more confident?
Writing is one of the most powerful tools we have as family historians. It’s how we share our discoveries with relatives, preserve our stories for future generations, and contribute to the wider community of researchers.
That’s why we’re launching a 2026 Writer’s Workshop for Genealogical Writing — a hands-on, supportive space to help you grow your writing skills, find your voice, and gain the confidence to see your work in print.
Whether you’re just beginning to write or already drafting family stories, this workshop is for you. You’ll start from where you are and build toward sharing your discoveries in a clear, professional, and compelling way.
What to Expect A Writer’s Workshop is a small, committed group—about ten participants — each setting a personal writing goal. There will be monthly meetings (likely on Saturday mornings), both in person and virtually, under the guidance of Lisa Oberg, experienced genealogist, family historian, and SGS Vice President. Along the way, you’ll receive ongoing support, feedback, and encouragement.
So — have you ever solved a research problem and thought, I should write that up someday? This is your opportunity to make “someday” happen. Join us and let your research discoveries take their place in the record.
Follow eNews and the SGS website for sign up information.SGS LIBRARY NEWSA Troll Through the SGS Bulletin (now the Journal of the Seattle Genealogical Society) By Kathi, SGS Director of LibraryOn numerous occasions during 2025, I found I was searching through old issues of the Bulletin looking for information on SGS activities. SGS started publishing a two-page weekly Bulletin in 1952. Initially, the content was mainly devoted to announcing upcoming meetings, listing members (54 in 1952) and being a resource for members to exchange information – the infamous Queries section. By 1955 the content had expanded to include member submitted transcriptions of Bible records, maternal and paternal lineages, family histories, census indexes, early King County marriage records, as well as other odds and ends. Not all content published in the Bulletin was related to Seattle, King County or Washington, and one may find a transcription of a Virginian’s will or probate, a Revolutionary War or Civil War Pension application from Kentucky or New York, a survey of cemeteries in Ohio and a myriad of other transcribed material. I’ve searched for information from some of the Bulletins and, in some cases, I was unable to locate the specific item on Ancestry, FamilySearch or any other genealogical-related website. In conclusion, don’t overlook genealogical society publications, such as the Bulletin. Seattle Public Library (SPL) has a large collection of society publications from most, if not all, states.
Show Your Research Chops With January 2026 ChallengeWhat was the Borrowed Time Club of Seattle? When was the Club established? What was the purpose of the Club?
Send your responses — with short, informal source citations — to research@seagensoc.org. SGS CALENDAR OF EVENTS Good Shepherd Center, Suite 302 4649 Sunnyside Ave N Seattle, WA 98103 206 522-8658Hours : Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday ** 10:00 a.m .- 3:00 p.m. ** Always check the SGS Website Calendar of Events for the meeting links, registration, or for last minute updates or changes to the schedule. Be advised you may need to register in advance to join a meeting. Meeting content is for personal genealogy learning and may not be recorded or transcribed. All times listed are Pacific Time unless otherwise noted Saturday,Jan. 3, 2026,10:00 a.m.- 12:30 p.m. FamilySearch SIG, Discover the many ways to use the FamilySearch website in your research. Meeting includes instruction and time for Q&A. Email SGSFamilySearchSIG@seagensoc.org to join the mailing list Monday, Jan. 5, 2026, 10:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m., Brags & Bricks Social Interest Group (Virtual), Join us for an informal social gathering. Share your recent genealogical successes and challenges, or just come to hang out with other genealogists. See SGS Calendar for more information. NOTE: New Zoom link starting this month.
Monday, Jan. 5, 2026, 7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m., Organizing for Genealogy SIG, Share information and discuss organization tips, techniques, and habits to enhance your genealogical journey. Contact Susan McKee at sgsOrganizingsig@seagensoc.org to join.
Wednesday, Jan. 7, 2026, 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m., Pacific Northwest Interest Group (Virtual), Share information and discuss Pacific Northwest genealogical research. Register on the SGS website. Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, 6:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m., Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Genealogy SIG (Virtual), explore the intersection of artificial intelligence and genealogical research Email SGSAISIG@seagensoc.org NOTE: Meeting date change this month only and New Zoom link.
Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, 7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m., Publishing SIG, Participate in writing and publishing the SGS Journal twice a year. Email SGSPubSIG@seagensoc.org. NOTE: New Zoom link starting this month. Saturday, Jan. 10,2026, 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m., Holiday Open House, Join us for our annual holiday celebration in the SGS library at the Good Shepherd Center. Saturday, Jan. 10,2026, 1:00 p.m.-2:30 p.m., Second Saturday, “Cemetery & Funeral Home Research” Presented by Lisa Gorrell. Register here.
Monday, Jan. 12, 2026, 10:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m., Brags & Bricks Social Interest Group (Virtual), Join us for an informal social gathering. Share your recent genealogical successes and challenges, or just come to hang out with other genealogists. See SGS Calendar for more information. NOTE: New Zoom link starting this month. Monday, Jan. 12, 2026, 1:00 p.m.-2:30 p.m., SGS Board of Directors Meeting (Virtual), All SGS members are welcome to attend. SGS is an all volunteer organization. Please be involved. Members must sign in to website to see Zoom link. Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2026, 10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m., Tech Tuesday (Virtual), informal consultation time on DNA, genealogy software, or genealogy-related technical issues. All are welcome. No appointment necessary. Bring us your problem; we’ll try to help. NOTE: Zoom link alternates between 2nd and 4th Tuesday.Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2026, 6:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m., Ancestry Users SIG (Virtual), The Ancestry Users Special Interest Group is for people who use Ancestry.com (and AncestryDNA) to research their family histories. Email SGSAncestrySIG@seagensoc.org. NOTE: New Zoom link for 2026. Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2026, 7:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m., MAC Computer SIG, Jointly sponsored by SGS and Fiske. Meetings address topics and resources for Macintosh (Apple) computers and the Reunion genealogy software program. A link to login will be sent to the MAC SIG email list. If you would like to join, send an email to macusersig@seagensoc.org to be added to the email list.
Friday, Jan. 16, 2026, 10:30 p.m.–12:30 p.m. Family Tree Maker SIG, Join Eastside Genealogical Society and SGS to learn and share tips and tricks for using Family Tree Maker by Software MacKiev. The meetings open about 15 minutes in advance. You can join and/or leave whenever you have to, and you may email your question(s) in advance or bring them up during the meeting.
Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026, 10:00 a.m.-noon, Irish SIG (Virtual), with Susan McKee. Share information and discuss Irish ancestral research. View SGS calendar for details on joining this group. Saturday, Jan. 17 2026, 1:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m, German SIG (Virtual), Share what you know OR get help with problems in your own research. Register on the SGS website.
Monday, Jan. 19, 2026, 10:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m., Brags & Bricks Social Interest Group (Virtual), Join us for an informal social gathering. Share your recent genealogical successes and challenges, or just come to hang out with other genealogists. See SGS Calendar for more information. NOTE: New Zoom link starting this month. Tuesday, Jan. 19, 2026, 10:00 a.m.-noon, “Pass It On” Writers’ Group, Create your family history and share with others in an effort to improve your writing. The group may be accepting new members. Send queries to SGSPassItOn@seagensoc.org.
Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2026, 7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m., Write It Up! SIG (Virtual), Join this group to share and discuss writing projects, resources, and ideas. To join or learn more, contact Sheyna Watkins at sgsWriteItUpSIG@seagensoc.org. NOTE: New Zoom link starting this month Monday, Jan. 26, 2026, 10:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m., Brags & Bricks Social Interest Group (Virtual), Join us for an informal social gathering. Share your recent genealogical successes and challenges, or just come to hang out with other genealogists. See SGS Calendar for more information. NOTE: New Zoom link starting this month.
Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2026, 10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m., Tech Tuesday (Virtual), informal consultation time on DNA, genealogy software, or genealogy-related technical issues. All are welcome. No appointment necessary. Bring us your problem; we’ll try to help. NOTE: Zoom link alternates between 2nd and 4th Tuesday. Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2026, 7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m., Mexican SIG (Virtual), Share information and discuss Indigenous North American, Spanish, Cuban, and Hispanic genealogical research. Email Diane Hughes-Hart at SGSMexSIG@seagensoc.org to join. NOTE: New Zoom link starting this month.
Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026, 10:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m., DNA SIG (Virtual), Join our quarterly meetings to discover what’s new in genetic genealogy and learn more about select, in-depth topics. Email SGSDNASIG@seagensoc.org to join.
Sunday, Feb. 1, 2026, 1:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m., DNA Workshop, with Cary Bright and Craig Gowens. To participate you need to be on the SGS DNA Interest Group email list. Contact Cary Bright at sgsdnasig@seagensoc.org to join. Monday, Feb. 2, 2026, 10:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m., Brags & Bricks Social Interest Group (Virtual), Join us for an informal social gathering. Share your recent genealogical successes and challenges, or just come to hang out with other genealogists. See SGS Calendar for more information. NOTE: New Zoom link for January – June. Monday, Feb. 2, 2026, 7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m., Organizing for Genealogy SIG, Share information and discuss organization tips, techniques, and habits to enhance your genealogical journey. Contact Susan McKee at sgsOrganizingsig@seagensoc.org to join. Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026, 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m., Pacific Northwest Interest Group (Virtual), Share information and discuss Pacific Northwest genealogical research. Register on the SGS website. NOTE: New Zoom link for the rest of 2026. Thursday, Feb. 5, 2026, 6:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m., Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Genealogy SIG (Virtual), explore the intersection of artificial intelligence and genealogical research Email SGSAISIG@seagensoc.org. NOTE: New Zoom link for 2026. Saturday, Feb. 7, 2026, 10:00 a.m.- 12:30 p.m., FamilySearch SIG, Discover the many ways to use the FamilySearch website in your research. Meeting includes instruction and time for Q&A. Email SGSFamilySearchSIG@seagensoc.org to join the mailing list. NOTE: New starting time!
Monday, Feb. 8, 2026, 10:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m., Brags & Bricks Social Interest Group (Virtual), Join us for an informal social gathering. Share your recent genealogical successes and challenges, or just come to hang out with other genealogists. See SGS Calendar for more information.
Monday, Feb. 8, 2026, 1:00 p.m.-2:30 p.m., SGS Board of Directors Meeting (Virtual), All SGS members are welcome to attend. SGS is an all volunteer organization. Please be involved. Members must sign in to website to see Zoom link.
Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2026, 10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m., Tech Tuesday (Virtual), informal consultation time on DNA, genealogy software, or genealogy-related technical issues. All are welcome. No appointment necessary. Bring us your problem; we’ll try to help. NOTE: Zoom link alternates between 2nd and 4th Tuesday.Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2026, 6:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m., Ancestry Users SIG (Virtual), The Ancestry Users Special Interest Group is for people who use Ancestry.com (and AncestryDNA) to research their family histories. Email SGSAncestrySIG@seagensoc.org. NOTE: New Zoom link for 2026.Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026, 7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m., Publishing SIG, Participate in writing and publishing the SGS Journal twice a year. Email SGSPubSIG@seagensoc.org. NOTE: New Zoom link for 2026.Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026, 1:00 p.m-2:30 p.m., Second Saturday, “Lost in Translation: Deciphering Foreign Names, Places, & Documents” Presented by Margaret Fortier. Register here. OUR NEIGHBORS AND BEYOND “Getting Started with AI in Family History” with Andrew Redfern Eastside Genealogical Society Thursday, Jan. 8, 7:00 p.m. (virtual) (Zoom open at 6:30 p.m.)
Whether you’re a seasoned genealogist or just getting started, this talk will provide you with valuable insights and strategies for using AI to uncover your family’s unique story. Learn more and register.“Latest MyHeritage Technologies for Genealogy” with Daniel HorowitzJewish Genealogical Society of Washington State Sunday, Jan. 18, 11:00 a.m. (virtual) (Zoom open at 10:30 a.m.)
MyHeritage is constantly introducing new features and content to help users take their research to the next level. In this session, Daniel will give a detailed walkthrough of the latest features, show you how to make the most of them, and give a peek behind the scenes at how they were developed. Learn more and register.
GRIP Registration for 2026 Opens Genealogical Research Institute of Pittsburgh Tuesday, Feb. 3
This year the GRIP offers two sessions of classes: June 22-26, 2026, on Zoom and July 12-17, 2026, in-person! Learn more and here.“Decoding Your Ancestors: The Tech Edition” with Cyndi Ingle Olympia Genealogical Society Saturday, Feb. 7, 8:50 a.m. — 2:30 p.m. (virtual)
Four one-hour presentations focused on technology tools for genealogy. Learn more and register.Lower Columbia Genealogical Society Various Fridays, 9:45 a.m. (virtual)
February 13: The 1890 Census Speaker: Sara Cochran
March 13: Your Ancestor’s Occupation: Exploring the 1821 Irish Census. Speaker: Steven Morrison
April 10: Jumping the Pond: Connecting Immigrants to Their Homeland. Speaker: Mary Kircher Roddy
Learn more and register here. TIPS OF THE WEEK – EXPAND SEARCH PHRASES Think beyond full names when querying records databases.
Names are useful, but try applying them in different ways. Instead of searching just for the full name of an ancestor try a combination of just an ancestor’s first name with their spouse’s (or other family member’s) first name — with no surnames. This method might help get around spelling irregularities in their last name.
Try searching for an ancestor’s address in a city directory — this method may discover other individuals living at the same address.
Try searching an ancestor’s profession in their community. There may be guilds or other organizations that could give insight into an ancestor’s life — perhaps records of that organization are available.
As more details about an ancestor emerge use those details to explore other possible search queries. These may lead to even more discoveries. Join SGS Today* to renew your membership: log in on the Members Home page and click the green renew membership button.
DONATE TO SGS Your donations represent a significant part of the SGS budget. Your continued generosity helps us increase our financial security and expand our services for everyone. We make it easy for you to contribute appreciated stock from your portfolio. We have a brokerage account established and ready to receive your donation from any firm. For details, write treasurer@seagensoc.org. For questions about our needs and our vision, write president@seagensoc.org.
January 2, 2026
SGS eNews! comes out the first of every month. contact eNews!
TIPS OF THE WEEK – FULL-TEXT SEARCH COMING TO ANCESTRY.COM
Ancestry is currently rolling out a full-text search feature on their site. Some users have been given access to it while it appears that most users are still waiting for access.
Similar to the full-text search on FamilySearch, this feature will allow users to search unindexed documents on their site. For those who have access now, the feature can be found under the “search” drop-down in the main menu. Keep an eye out for future announcements from Ancestry about this new feature.
GUARDIANSHIP RECORDS: MORE THAN JUST ORPHANS Second Saturday: Dec. 12, 1:30 p.m.Professional Genealogist Cheri Hudson will discuss the overlooked treasures in probate research—guardianship records. Whether created for underage children (even when a mother was still living) or for individuals deemed unable to care for themselves, these records can reveal rich details about family relationships, living conditions, community networks, and more. Discover how this often-forgotten source can break open your toughest brick-wall cases and add depth to your ancestors’ stories. Note the different start
Cheri Hudson Passey is the owner of Carolina Girl Genealogy, LLC. She is an instructor with the Salt Lake Genealogical Institute and the Institute for Genealogy and Historical Research. Cheri also hosts the YouTube Genealogy Chat Show, GenFriends. Sign Up Today! NEXT MONTH’S SECOND SATURDAY: “Cemetery & Funeral Home Research,” presented by Lisa Gorrell. Sign up separately for this event held Jan. 10. Join us for the Holiday Open House and watch this presentation from the library. images of children mourning at a parent’s grave (while a guardian angle looks on), an asylum building and a newspaper clipping all courtesy Library of Congress
TOMORROW IS GIVING TUESDAY Please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to support the Seattle Genealogical Society and Library during our Annual Appeal this holiday season. There are many ways to give, by check, credit card, from your IRA or donor advised fund. And now SGS can accept shares of stock — see the SGS Donate page for more information.Donate Now OnlineIf you have a PayPal account, you may donate to SGS via the PayPal Giving Fund and the transaction fee will be waived. Go to Paypal Giving Fund – SGS. 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.orgLEARN ABOUT SOFTWARE TO KEEP YOU ORGANIZEDVirtual Sunday: Dec. 21, 1 p.m. Goldie May software can help you stay organized, provide research assistance, and even create an automatic research log! A conversation with Richard Miller, the founder of Goldie May, will be recorded and will include all the latest developments. We will watch the recording together, and then have an open chat afterward about how we might find Goldie May useful in our own research workflow. Learn more about the software at Goldiemay.com. Register Here LONG TIME SGS MEMBER AND VOLUNTEER BERNICE KELLER PASSES, AGED 101 Bernice Keller SGS lost a long-time member, volunteer and dear friend in November. Bernice Keller died on Nov. 11 at the age of 101.
Keller joined SGS more than thirty years ago and contributed her talents and energy to the society throughout her membership. During 2000-2009 she was one of the six dedicated volunteers who completed the massive King Co Court Records indexing project, creating what we know today as the “KC3I” database. She was a regular Thursday volunteer on the Archives Committee, while also serving as a Library Trustee (2011-14), on the Nominating Committee (2014), and on the Financial Review Committee (2015). Keller was twice honored as the SGS Volunteer of the Quarter (Spring 2012 and Summer 2024) and was given a Honorary Life Membership in SGS earlier this summer.
Bernice Keller will be missed by all who knew her. Read her obituary at Dignity Memorial.Join Us for Our Annual Holiday CelebrationWith the holiday rush over, let’s celebrate the new year. Bring cookies to share and say hello to your SGS friends in person at the library.
TREPIDATION TURNS TO JOY VOLUNTEERING FOR SGS-SPL PROGRAM By Jim SecanI don’t really consider myself to be a genealogist, or Genealogist, as I like to write it when I’m wanting to irritate my SGS colleagues who are hard-core genealogists! So, I approached working at one of the new SGS drop-in sessions at the Seattle Public Library (SPL) Northeast Branch with a certain amount of trepidation. Not only am I almost entirely self-taught in the gentle art of genealogy, but the great majority of my skills are limited to research within the United States. I was very uncertain as to what help I could provide.
As luck would have it, the first person who came to me for help at the first drop-in session at the Northeast Branch was looking for information about finding people on the east side of the Atlantic. Not only that, but he was looking at Jewish ancestors from political entities that no longer exist. This was really outside my genealogical “wheelhouse.” Flustered, I vamped a bit to gather my wits about me by looking to find the first of that family line to come into the U.S., using only documents from the U.S. That done, we moved forward in time, again completely within the U.S. documents world, confirming that this was indeed his family and that the information he had about them was correct. Some of it was not, so it was great to get him on the right track. I then admitted to him that I could not help finding documents on the European side of the Atlantic, but I was able to give him some ideas as to where else to go for assistance (I suggested the local Jewish Genealogy Society and the FamilySearch Wiki pages pertinent to his area of interest) and he left feeling like he’d been helped. Even better, I felt like I had been able to help him.
These sessions are limited to 20-30 minutes per person, which isn’t much time for a deep dive of any sort. And the people who come are mostly either new to genealogy and anything we can tell them is a help, or they are someone who just needs to talk with another genealogist about their problem and provide a fresh set of eyes on it. I’ve helped five people in two sessions at the NW Branch, one of whom came twice, and it has been very rewarding.
This partnership between SGS and SPL is a rebirth of a relationship that goes back to SGS’s founding in 1923. For many years the relationship has been limited to an SPL representative on our Board of Directors (thanks, Mahina Oshie and John LaMont), and it’s nice to expand that relationship back out to a partnership serving our local community together. If you would like to help out with this new partnership, we would certainly welcome it. Just send an email to the SGS Volunteer Coordinator, Scott Laing (volunteers@seagensoc.org), and he’ll get you connect with the group. SGS LIBRARY NEWSSGS Offers Access to 470 Databases Through American Ancestors The SGS Library subscription to American Ancestors provides access to approximately 470 record bases databases. One can search for records according to Projects, Categories, as well as an A-Z listing of all databases. American Ancestors also provides access to a Digital Library and Archive and access to Boston Catholic Records and Mayflower Descendants Applications.
Projects include: 10 Million Names – Over 20 databases related to enslavement, the slave trade and free and freed people of African descent Colonial New England – Over 70 databases and collections that document individuals who lived in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont prior to 1800. Great Migration Project – Approximately 10 databases related to immigrants to New England from 1620-1633; 1634-1635 and 1636-1638. Mayflower 2020 Categories include databases such as: Court, Land and Probate Records Census (1790-1930), Tax and Voter Lists Immigration Military The Digital Library and Archive includes materials from: Wyner Family Jewish Center R. Stanton Avery Special Collection and Brim-DeForest Library A sample of non-USA records include: 1875 Norway Census Sweden births, marriages and deaths Some English Parish records 1890 and 1900 German Census for Mecklenberg-Schwerin Be sure to check out American Ancestors on your next visit to the SGS library – you might be surprised to find they have access to a database not available through other genealogy websites. New Library AcquisitionsWe’ve recently added approximately 35 new books to the library’s collections. Some new titles include: Townland Atlas of Ulster by Andrew Kane In Their Words, A Genealogist’s Translation Guide to Polish, German, Latin, and Russian Documents – Volume One (Polish) and Volume Four (German) Seattle’s Teachers of the Interwar Years by Doris Hinson Piroth Polish Surnames by William F Hoffman English Translation of Nordmændene i Amerika by Martin Ulvestad Three volumes of Tillamook history Several Pennsylvania and Ohio books 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 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, 6:00 p.m.-7:30 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, Dec. 13, 2025, 1:30 p.m-2:30 p.m., Second Saturday, “Guardianship Records” Presented by Cheri Hudson Passey. Register here.Monday, Dec. 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, Dec. 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. Saturday, Dec. 20, 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, Dec. 20 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, Dec. 21, 2025, 1:00 pm- 2:00 pm, Virtual Sunday: Goldie May Genealogy Software (Virtual), Join a conversation with the founder of Goldie May software Richard Miller. Learn how the software can help you stay organized, provide research assistance, and even create an automatic research log. Register here.
Monday, Dec. 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, Dec. 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. Monday, Dec. 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. Saturday, Jan. 3, 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.Saturday, Jan. 10,2025, 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m., Holiday Open House, Join us for our annual holiday celebration in the SGS library at the Good Shepherd Center. Saturday, Jan. 10,2025, 1:00 p.m.-2:30 p.m., Second Saturday, “Cemetery & Funeral Home Research” Presented by Lisa Gorrell. Register here. Wednesday, Jan. 14, 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.
Wednesday, Jan. 28, 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.
OUR NEIGHBORS AND BEYOND
“Preserve Your Family Memories Through Personal Digital Archiving,” presented by Lori DiBella Wallach Jewish Genealogical Society of Washington State Monday, Dec. 8, 7 p.m. (virtual)
Join archivist Lori DiBella Wallach for a fun exploration of how to use digital solutions to organize, preserve and share your family memories and make sure they remain accessible in the future. Learn more and register.“Getting Started with AI in Family History,” presented by Andrew RedfernEastside Genealogical Society Thursday, Jan. 8, 7:00 p.m. (virtual)
Whether you’re a seasoned genealogist or just getting started, this talk will provide you with valuable insights and strategies for using AI to uncover your family’s unique story. Learn more and register.“Introduction to One-Place Studies,” presented by Jane HarrisGenealogical Forum of Oregon Saturday, Jan. 17, 7:30 p.m. (virtual)
An intensive study of a single locale can reveal and disambiguate relationships of related families and even help resolve a genealogical brick wall. Learn what a one-place study is, the benefits of conducting one, and how to get started. Learn more and register.
FOUR WAYS TO CELEBRATE FAMILY HISTORY OVER THE HOLIDAYSBy Beth Steury (bethsteury@gmail.com)The things we love most about the holidays — the family gathered from far and near, the dining table overflowing with favorite foods, and the cherished, passed-down traditions—create a lovely backdrop for a day spent reveling in family history.
For the genealogy enthusiast, the holidays are the perfect time to indulge the love of all things family history. For those who don’t regularly immerse themselves in sprawling family trees, the holidays have a way of fanning even the tiniest spark-like interest in family connections into a glowing ember. That’s why it’s the ideal time to nudge conversations toward family connections. To crack open the chest where generations of family stories and photos and connections have been carefully stored.
Here’s some ideas for turning any festive gathering into a fun, educational, and engaging event that will beckon young, old, and those in between to show off their family-history prowess while creating an atmosphere suited to soaking up a wealth of deeds, details, and dates about their ancestors.
Paper and Pen Puzzles Create generational word searches, one with the names of the aunts and uncles, one comprised of the grandchildren or the first cousins, another with the great-grandchildren or the second cousins. Many online sites make creating these puzzles a snap. Put together a family trivia crossword puzzle—a simple one for the kids, a more ambitious version for those willing to take up the challenge. Again, lots of online assistance is available. Because a picture is worth a thousand words, create a “Name that Cousin” or “Name that Couple” display using high school graduation photos or wedding photos and invite folks to take a walk down memory lane. Memories Plucked from the Family Recipe Box
What’s the story behind the special dishes that have made an appearance on the family Thanksgiving menu for years? Who first made the cornbread stuffing, the cranberry relish, or the special dinner rolls that have earned a favored spot on the dinner table? Share copies of these treasured recipes. Bonus points for copies of recipes penned in a beloved ancestor’s handwriting.
Voices from the Pages of Time
As folks linger over a second piece of pie, bring the eldest family member front and center for a casual conversation interview. Encourage the audience to listen carefully as there will be a quiz with prizes for the high scorers. Include coaxing questions like: What was your favorite holiday as a child and why? Please share your earliest Thanksgiving memory. Did you have a favorite pet while growing up? Tell us about the chores that were your responsibility as a young lad or lassie. Do you remember a time when you and your siblings got into mischief? Enlist a cousin or two to take notes to create the quiz. Maybe a simple quiz for the young and a tougher test for adults?
Mischief Loves Company
There’s bound to be folks brave enough to fess up to the antics and shenanigans the ornery cousins managed to keep from their parents or grandparents these many decades. Wrangle a volunteer or two to retell a rambunctious adventure. Enlist others to jot down a real-life escapade and, on the sly, drop it in the “mischief” bucket. Read the noted adventures one at a time and guess to whom the incident belongs.
It’s never too early to spark an interest in family history among the youngest family members. And, it’s never too late to learn more about the generations that came before us. I’ll argue that every day is the right time to engage in conversations about family history. But there’s something extra special about spending the holidays reveling in genealogy. Join SGS Today * to renew your membership: log in on the Members Home page and click the green renew membership button.
DONATE TO SGS Your donations represent a significant part of the SGS budget. Your continued generosity helps us increase our financial security and expand our services for everyone. We make it easy for you to contribute appreciated stock from your portfolio. 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.
December 1, 2025
SGS eNews! comes out the first of every month. contact eNews!
Before 1871, Veterans could only qualify for a pension if they could prove that a war injury prevented them from earning a living. For widows, they had to prove they had married the solider before the end of the war in 1815. After 1871, all veterans and widows could apply provided the solider had served for at least 60 days. After 1878 benefits were further extended to include veterans, widows and their children if the soldier served at least 14 days. Those who served the war effort in capacities other than soldier were also made eligible.
Pension files area wealth of genealogical information, often containing testimony of a comrades and family Bible records.
As with any collection, be sure to check back often for when more records are added.
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!
TIP OF THE WEEK – ARE THERE SPOOKY STORIES IN YOUR TREE?
October is the month of Halloween. Genealogists haunt cemeteries in search clues (join SGS’s Calvary Cemetery tour, see the details above in our feature story), but there are other spooky places to go in search of records of ancestors.
Accusations of witchcraft could lead to court records detailing claims. Although the witchcraft trials in Salem, Mass., are the most famous, there were others including the Hildebrand-Evans Case of 1805 as well as cases in Connecticut and Virginia. Was one of your ancestors connected to one?
Locations also play an important role in family history. Rumors of haunted buildings and other sites have been passed down over the years. Legends about the supernatural are connected to many places right here in Washington state. Did your family live near one of them?
What other spooky stories are in your family tree?
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.
TIP OF THE WEEK – LEGACY FAMILY TREE WEBINARS FREE GENEALOGY CONFERENCE
As a part of Legacy Family Tree Webinars’ annual online Genealogical conference, they will be offering 19 free seminars each Wednesday in September. Topics include:
Eight Little-used Published German Sources
12 Ways to Use Gravestone Clues to Grow Your Family Tree
Manage large writing projects through optimistic start, muddled middle, and triumphant finish
Research Treasures from W.P.A.
How to write a genealogical crime mystery story
School Censuses: What, When and Where
Learn more, register and see the full list of seminars.
Join SGS Today
to renew your membership: log in on the Members Home page and click the green renew membership button. September 1, 2025
SGS eNews! comes out the first of every month. contact eNews!
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.
CEMETERY & FUNERAL HOME RESEARCHSecond Saturday: Jan. 10, 1:00 p.m.Join us in welcoming Lisa Gorrell, CG, presenting on researching cemeteries and funeral homes.
HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSEJoin Us for Our Annual Holiday CelebrationWith the holiday rush over, let’s celebrate the New Year. Bring cookies to share and say hello to your SGS friends in person at the library. Come early, come late (not too late). Stay and join us for the Second Saturday Zoom presentation at 1pm Catch (or ask for) a demo of library subscriptions and/or equipment Sneak in a little research (It’s 
Lisa Oberg Have you ever noticed how easy it is to click through hints and match names—yet how hard it can be to write about the discoveries you make and the mysteries you solve? Have you discovered that when you practice a new skill—and get a little coaching from someone more experienced—you get better, faster, and more confident?
Bernice Keller SGS lost a long-time member, volunteer and dear friend in November. Bernice Keller died on Nov. 11 at the age of 101.
Join Us for Our Annual Holiday CelebrationWith the holiday rush over, let’s celebrate the new year. Bring cookies to share and say hello to your SGS friends in person at the library. 
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
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.